Rachel Couper

Dr Rachel Couper is a Lecturer and Research Project Manager with the Future Building Initiative at Monash University. She holds a PhD in Architecture from the University of Sydney and specializes in bridging industry and research through applied design research, particularly in mass timber construction, industrialized building, and offsite construction. Her role as Project Manager for the Building 4.0 CRC Lighthouse Projects involves developing innovative solutions and prototypes for the construction industry. Trained in both architecture and art, she also engages in design practice through temporary pavilions and art installations.

Education:

• PhD in Architecture, University of Sydney (2017)
• MArch(Hons), University of Sydney (2012)
• Bachelor of Architecture, University of Sydney (2009)
• Bachelor of Arts (Visual), Southern Cross University (1996)

Research Interests: Industrialized construction, modular design, sustainable materials, and prototyping. Her work emphasizes practical applications and collaboration between academia and industry to address challenges in modern construction practices. Recent projects include the Innovation in Advanced Manufacture of Multi-Storey Housing CRC-Project and the NCHA Independent Living Lab Prototyping Project.

Awards:

• Byera Hadley Travelling Scholarship (2014)

Advising & Grants: Rachel leads multiple research projects funded by industry and government collaborations, including roles in the Building 4.0 CRC and Project #61: Building Productivity. She actively contributes to interdisciplinary teams focused on scalability, logistics optimization, and sustainable building innovations.

Labs/Teams: Core member of the Future Building Initiative and lead in the Building 4.0 CRC Prototyping and Fabrication Technologies Theme. Collaborates with global networks in architectural design, engineering, and construction management.