Gerrit Höfker

Prof. Dr. Gerrit Höfker has been Professor of Building Physics at Bochum University of Applied Sciences since 2003, within the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. He teaches Building Physics, Fire Protection, Building Climatology, and Room Acoustics at Bachelor and Master levels, focusing on practical applications for residential and commercial buildings.

His academic journey began with vocational training as a central heating and ventilation engineer (1987-1990) and paramedic (1990-1991). He then earned a Diploma in Building Physics from Stuttgart University of Applied Sciences (1991-1996) and a doctorate from De Montfort University Leicester (2001) on sorption-assisted building cooling with solar energy.

Prof. Höfker's research priorities include thermal building simulation, urban climate adaptation, and thermal/auditory comfort. His work in room acoustics focuses on planning spaces with demanding acoustic requirements, while his thermal research addresses energy-efficient building design across diverse climate zones. He employs advanced simulation tools like EnergyPlus and IDAIce for thermal analysis and ray tracing for complex room acoustics.

His publications from 2009-2017 show a consistent focus on building acoustics (nearly half) and thermal comfort. Notable trends include 3D visualization for energy systems, non-auditory noise effects in offices, and bottom-up models for urban energy demand. His research increasingly connects building physics with urban climate challenges.

Prof. Höfker is actively involved in the Building Physics Laboratory at Bochum University of Applied Sciences, where he oversees teaching laboratories for heat transport, water vapor diffusion, and acoustics calculations. The lab supports both educational activities and applied research in building physics.