Masoud Akbarzadeh

Masoud Akbarzadeh is an Associate Professor of Architecture at the University of Pennsylvania's Stuart Weitzman School of Design, directing the Polyhedral Structures Laboratory (PSL) where he pioneers geometric approaches to structural design and digital fabrication. His work integrates architectural innovation with engineering precision to develop sustainable, high-performance building systems.

His academic credentials include:

• D.Sc. from ETH Zurich's Institute of Technology in Architecture
• Master of Science in Architecture Studies (Computation) and M.Arch from MIT
• Degree in Earthquake Engineering from Iran University of Science and Technology
• B.S. in Civil and Environmental Engineering

Dr. Akbarzadeh's research centers on Three-Dimensional Graphical Statics, revolutionizing structural form finding through polyhedral reciprocal diagrams. Key focus areas include computational geometry for spatial structures, digital fabrication of concrete and glass systems, and geometric optimization for environmental performance. His laboratory develops cutting-edge methods for translating theoretical geometry into buildable structures through advanced computational tools.

Recent publications reveal accelerating innovation in carbon-capturing concrete using triply periodic minimum surfaces, ultra-thin glass bridges, and machine learning-enhanced structural design. His work consistently bridges theoretical geometric principles with practical applications in sustainable construction and renewable energy infrastructure, demonstrating increasing interdisciplinary impact.

Major recognitions include:

• National Science Foundation CAREER Award (2020)
• Top 100 Innovators & Entrepreneurs Magazine (2025)
• SOM award for MIT thesis

As principal investigator, he leads significant research initiatives including the NSF CAREER project on 3D graphic statics and collaborative EAGER grants for offshore renewable energy structures. Though specific students aren't listed, he mentors through PSL and teaches graduate courses like Structures II and Technology Lab, fostering next-generation designers in computational structural engineering.

• CAREER: 3D/Polyhedral Graphic Statics for Education, Design, and Optimization (2020)
• Collaborative EAGER: Harnessing Ocean Wave Energy with 3D Printed Structures (2024)

The Polyhedral Structures Laboratory drives experimental research in geometric structural systems, producing breakthroughs like the Tortuca glass bridge and Terrene 2.0 biomaterial composites. Through partnerships with industry and academic institutions, PSL advances the frontiers of structural design, fabrication technology, and sustainable material applications in architecture.