George H Berghorn

George H. Berghorn is an Assistant Professor of Construction Management and Research Director for Mass Timber at Michigan State University's School of Planning, Design and Construction, with an adjunct appointment in the Department of Forestry. His work bridges sustainable construction practices, mass timber innovation, and environmental stewardship within the College of Social Science and College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

His educational background includes:

• PhD in Construction Management from Michigan State University
• Master of Environmental Studies from Yale University
• Bachelor of Science (magna cum laude) in Earth Science and Political Science from SUNY Brockport

Berghorn's research centers on mass timber construction systems, building deconstruction/domicology, and material reuse within circular economy frameworks. He employs Delphi Technique, FMEA risk analysis, and case study methodologies to advance sustainable built environments, with specialized focus on energy efficiency in high-security facilities and contaminated site remediation. His work integrates green building certification systems and construction education innovation.

As an active advisor, Berghorn mentors the Student Builders and Contractors Association and Sigma Lambda Chi while coaching the Residential Competition Team. He has secured significant funding including a $650K NSF grant for mass timber curriculum development and a $247K U.S. Forest Service grant for cross-laminated timber commercialization research, addressing critical industry challenges in material reuse and aquatic invasive species prevention.

Berghorn leads multiple research initiatives:

• MassTimber@MSU
• Construction Management Education and Research Lab
• MSU Domicology Research Group
• MSU Sustainable Bioproducts Program
• Green Prisons initiative
• MSU Industrial Assessment Center
• MSU Housing & Education Research Initiative

He maintains professional credentials as a LEED Accredited Professional (BD+C) and Certified Green Professional (NAHB), reflecting his commitment to sustainable construction standards.