Karam Al-Obaidi

Dr. Karam Al-Obaidi is a Senior Lecturer in Sustainable Architecture at Sheffield Hallam University (SHU), where he teaches on Architecture and Architectural Technology courses. Previously, he served as Senior Lecturer and Head of the Research Unit for Design and Sustainable Architecture at the University of Malaya (Kuala Lumpur). His academic roles include PhD supervision and research consultancy.

He holds a PhD in Sustainable Architecture from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and has taught at universities in Malaysia, Mexico, China, and the UK. His interdisciplinary research focuses on environmental technology, decarbonisation, and climate emergency practices in the built environment, aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3, 11, and 12. Key research areas include smart cities, IoT integration, digital twins, and energy-efficient building technologies.

Dr. Al-Obaidi has led research projects totaling over £100,000 and published widely in top-tier journals. He is an active reviewer for over 50 journals and serves on editorial boards. His work emphasizes sustainable retrofitting, net-zero buildings, and urban microclimate strategies.

Awards:

• Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA)
• Chartered Architectural Technologist (MCIAT)

Grants & Leadership:

• Over £100,000 in research funding
• Former Head of Research Unit at University of Malaya

His research group explores cutting-edge technologies like fiber-optic daylighting systems, hybrid turbine ventilators, and algae-based indoor environment solutions. He collaborates globally, addressing challenges in affordable housing, water harvesting, and climate-resilient urban design.