Francesco Frontini

Francesco Frontini is Professor and Director of the Institute for Applied Sustainability to the Built Environment (ISAAC) at SUPSI's Department of Environment, Construction and Design, where he leads the Building Systems sector and oversees sustainability curriculum for architecture programs.

His academic credentials include:

• Civil Engineering and Architecture degree, Polytechnic University of Milan (2005)
• PhD with honors in Building Engineering, Polytechnic University of Milan (2009)
• Professor title in Innovative Construction Technologies and Sustainable Design (2019)
• Executive MBA, Università della Svizzera italiana (2021)

Frontini's research pioneers Building Integrated Photovoltaics with emphasis on real-world performance validation. His work spans electrical/thermal behavior of BIPV systems across diverse mounting configurations, urban energy modeling using Sky-view Factor analysis, and circular economy implementation in construction. He bridges theoretical research with industry applications through direct collaboration with manufacturers and standardization bodies.

Recent publications demonstrate evolving focus from fundamental BIPV module characterization (2013 roof/façade comparisons) toward systemic urban energy solutions (2016 densification studies) and market development frameworks (2019 colored BIPV report), reflecting growing integration of technical research with policy and commercialization.

Key recognitions include:

• Boldbrain 2018 First Prize for 'iWin' startup
• Best Paper Award at PLEA 2011 conference
• Honorable Mention for Master's Thesis

He supervises bachelor theses in sustainability while leading multiple funded research initiatives. His IEA PVPS Task 15 leadership connects SUPSI to 23 international partners, and projects like REEFLEX demonstrate strong industry collaboration for advanced PV manufacturing solutions. The Swiss Federal Office of Energy directly funds his standardization contributions through the IEA appointment.

As Director of ISAAC, Frontini oversees a multidisciplinary research hub focused on applied sustainability solutions, with particular strength in experimental validation of building technologies through full-scale testing facilities and industry partnerships.