Sasa Zivkovic is an Associate Professor at Cornell University's College of Architecture, Art, and Planning, where he directs the Robotic Construction Laboratory (RCL). He co-founded the experimental architecture practice H.A.N.N.A.H in Ithaca, New York, focusing on integrating advanced technologies with traditional building techniques. Research Interests span architectural technology, robotic construction, 3D printing, sustainability, and mass-customized housing. His work explores additive concrete manufacturing, robotic wood construction, and ecological design solutions. Key projects: 3D-printed Guard House (Suzhou, China), Modular Dental Clinic (Ladakh, India), Corbel Cabin (Ithaca, NY) Won 2018 Folly/Function competition Recipient of Atkinson Center funding for sustainable wood construction Scientific Awards 2018 Folly/Function Competition Winner Architect magazine 'Next Progressives' (2018) Atkinson Center Rapid Response Fund Grant (2018) Rob|Arch 2018 Best Workshop Runner-Up Zivkovic teaches courses in architectural design studios and media representation, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration with the high-tech building industry through projects like RRRolling Stones and Emergency Wood initiatives.
Dr. Carl Ho (Ngai Man) is a Full Professor and Canada Research Chair in Efficient Utilization of Electric Power at the University of Manitoba's Price Faculty of Engineering, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Appointed Associate Head (Electrical Engineering) in July 2021, he leads the Renewable-energy Interface and Grid Automation (RIGA) Lab established with CFI funding in 2014. His educational background includes: PhD in Electronic Engineering (2007), City University of Hong Kong MEng in Electronic Engineering (2002), City University of Hong Kong BEng in Electronic Engineering (2002), City University of Hong Kong Dr. Ho's research focuses on power electronics applications for sustainable energy systems, with particular expertise in power conversion technologies for electric vehicles, renewable integration, and smart grid infrastructure. His work bridges industrial application and academic innovation, evidenced by over 40 IEEE journal publications, 80 conference papers, and 20+ patents. Current research emphasizes wide-bandgap semiconductor applications, power hardware-in-loop validation, and DC microgrid architectures for remote communities. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trend toward practical implementation of power electronics solutions, with increasing focus on GaN/SiC devices, grid-forming converters, and modular architectures for microgrids. His work consistently addresses real-world challenges in efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness across renewable integration, electric transportation, and power quality domains. Notable awards include: Second Place Winner for 2018 IEEE Transactions on Power Electronics Prize Paper Multiple IEEE JESTPE Star Associate Editor Awards (2022-2023) IEEE TPEL AE Excellence Award (2023) Best Student Team Regional Award in IEEE Empower a Billion Lives 2019 As an active mentor, Dr. Ho supervises numerous graduate students across multiple cohorts and leads significant research initiatives including NSERC Discovery Grants, MITACS collaborations with Power Integrations Inc., Research Manitoba Innovation Proof-of-Concept Grants, and Natural Resources Canada projects on zero-emission heavy vehicles. His RIGA Lab serves as a hub for industry-academic collaboration with Manitoba Hydro and transportation sector partners. The RIGA Lab, completed in 2016 and renovated in 2019, houses specialized equipment for power electronics prototyping, real-time simulation, and hardware-in-loop testing. Current projects include advanced wireless EV charging, GaN-based controller development, and DC microgrid solutions for remote communities, with recent recognition including a visit from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in April 2023.
Alexandra Staub is a Professor of Architecture at Pennsylvania State University , with an affiliation at the Rock Ethics Institute . Her academic work focuses on the intersection of architecture, culture, and ethics. Ph.D. from Brandenburg Technical University at Cottbus Diploma in Architecture from Berlin University of the Arts B.A. in Psychology from Barnard College, Columbia University Staub’s research explores how the built environment shapes and reflects cultural understanding, particularly in the contexts of social sustainability , gender , and political representation . Her work bridges theoretical analysis with practical design, emphasizing ethical considerations and empowerment in architecture. Recent publications highlight stakeholder agency , urban transformations , and ethical design practices . Scientific Awards & Grants: 2019–20 Penn State Rock Ethics Institute Faculty Fellow Penn State President’s Fund for Undergraduate Research (2016) College of Arts and Architecture Faculty Research Grant (2015) Raymond A. Bowers Grant (2013) External grants from Woodrow Wilson International Center, DAAD, and DFG Staub teaches third-year design studio , research methods , and architectural ethics courses. She actively participates in international conferences and serves as a peer reviewer for academic journals. Her professional experience includes architecture practice in Berlin and prior faculty roles at Brandenburg Technical University.
Dr. Wai Kiong Oswald Chong is an Associate Professor at Arizona State University's School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, with a dual affiliation as Senior Global Futures Scientist at the Global Futures Scientists and Scholars program. He holds a PhD in Civil Engineering from the University of Texas-Austin, MSc and BSc in Building from the National University of Singapore, and focuses on integrating artificial intelligence with sustainable engineering systems. PhD (2005): Civil Engineering, University of Texas-Austin MSc (1999) & BSc (1997): National University of Singapore His research bridges lunar construction with Earth-bound sustainable systems, covering topics like: Space habitat modularization Resource circularity systems AI-enhanced building codes Climate-resilient infrastructure Advanced energy modeling Construction supply chain optimization Publications demonstrate consistent focus on: Semiconductor facility HVAC optimization Building energy consumption anomalies Life cycle assessment frameworks Construction risk management Deconstruction and material reuse AI-driven system modeling Current research projects include: Lunar MVI (Moon Village Initiative) Semiconductor fab design optimization Human-AI knowledge interfaces Thermal insulation systems for extreme environments Smart grid energy modeling
Dr. Sven Mackenbach serves as a Postdoctoral Researcher and Senior Engineer at RWTH Aachen University's Institute of Construction Management, Digital Engineering and Robotics in Construction (ICoM) since January 2023. Holding a doctorate in circular construction from the same institution, he leads the development of the "Circular Construction" research area, oversees multidisciplinary projects, and teaches Sustainable Construction Management to engineering students. His academic credentials include: PhD in Circular Construction, RWTH Aachen University (2023) Mackenbach's research integrates circular economy principles with digital construction technologies, focusing on strategic management frameworks for sustainable building practices. His expertise spans modular construction methods, BIM-based sustainability assessment, and digital twinning applications for infrastructure management. He bridges theoretical research with practical implementation through sustainability consulting for construction stakeholders, addressing real-world challenges in resource efficiency and regulatory compliance. His publication portfolio reveals a decisive shift toward data-driven circular construction solutions, with increasing emphasis on BIM-ontology integration for deconstruction planning, public participation systems, and sewer infrastructure management. Recent works demonstrate sophisticated methodological approaches to quantify ecological, economic, and social sustainability metrics without specialized expertise. As a scientific supervisor, Mackenbach mentors research assistants in project execution while contributing to curriculum development through his specialized course instruction. His leadership in research project coordination indicates substantial grant management experience, though specific funding sources aren't detailed in available materials. Within ICoM's collaborative environment, he contributes to cross-disciplinary teams advancing digital engineering and robotics applications in construction, particularly through the KaSyTwin sewer management project and BIPV facade digitalization initiatives.
Chandra Baerg is a Visiting Lecturer in the Department of Architecture at Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt). She is a registered architect in California and a multidisciplinary artist with extensive experience in sustainable residential design and alternative construction techniques such as straw bale and rammed earth. Her professional work includes collaborations with Arkin Tilt Architects, Dufner Heighes, and co-founding Toby Long Design x Clever Homes for modular housing projects. Her research and practice converge at the intersection of aesthetics, philosophy, and architectural policy , with a strong commitment to net zero-energy buildings and social housing . She has served as a Guest Critic at California College of the Arts, New York Institute of Technology, and MassArt, and was a Limited Term Professor of Sculpture at the University of North Georgia. Baerg holds an MFA in Painting from the San Francisco Art Institute and a BFA in Architectural Design from MassArt. She was nominated for the Headlands Center for the Arts Graduate Fellowship during her graduate studies. Professional Affiliation: American Institute of Architects (AIA) She has also served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at the San Francisco Art Institute, contributing to academic mentorship and studio education. While no grants are explicitly mentioned, her interdisciplinary work suggests engagement with creative and architectural research funding avenues. Baerg is actively involved in both artistic and architectural communities, bridging design innovation with social responsibility through teaching, practice, and collaboration.
Professor Alan Penn is a leading academic at University College London's The Bartlett School of Architecture , where he holds the title of Professor in Architectural and Urban Computing. He previously served as Dean of the Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment from 2009 to 2019 and has been instrumental in establishing Space Syntax Ltd , a UCL knowledge transfer spin-out company. His affiliations include membership in the Space Syntax Laboratory, board membership of UCL Consultants Ltd, and trustee status at Shakespeare North Trust. Education: BSc (1978), Dip Arch (1980), MSc (1983) - all from University College London Alan Penn’s research investigates how spatial design influences social and economic behaviors through innovative space syntax methodologies . Key areas include: Agent-based simulations of human behavior Spatio-temporal representations of built environments Urban spatial network analysis Urban sustainability across multiple dimensions Cognitive markers in architectural design Historical urban growth modeling His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on computational urbanism, evolutionary city patterns, and behavioral architecture. Research trends show interdisciplinary approaches combining architectural theory with: Machine learning applications Network science analysis Behavioral psychology insights Historical GIS techniques Complex systems modeling Public health considerations Scientific recognition includes: HEFCE Business Fellowship (2001-2005) KTP SE Region Award (2010) Multiple UCL Enterprise awards ‘Spirit of Enterprise’ Award (2008) As Principal Investigator he leads the £5m EPSRC-funded Urban Dynamics Lab , demonstrating sustained research excellence. His work extends to public engagement through: Shakespeare North Trust educational theatre development Media appearances (New Scientist, Slashdot) Public policy contributions
Anna Bach is a Visiting Professor of Architecture at Washington University in St. Louis (Sam Fox School) and former Associate Professor at EINA, University of Design and Arts in Barcelona (2008–2022). She co-founded Anna & Eugeni Bach, an architecture studio specializing in public and private projects including housing, public buildings, urban design, and art installations. Her academic roles include curating the XV Spanish Architecture Biennial and the exhibition 'Human Traces' at the Alvar Aalto Museum. Research focuses on architectural growth theories and spatial perception, with notable projects like the Slovenian Pavilion at the Venice Biennale (2023) and the Firal d’Olot (2024). Education: Masters in Theory and Practice of Architectural Design, Barcelona School of Architecture (ETSAB), UPC, 2014 Architecture Degree, Helsinki University of Technology, 2001 Research Interests: Gradual urban growth through architectural additions Temporary installations and ephemeral interventions Public space design and cultural heritage preservation Interdisciplinary collaboration between art and architecture Awards: 2024 International Topscape Award 2019 FAD Award for Ephemeral Interventions 2016 Golden Lion at Venice Biennale 2014 FAD International Award for 'La Casita' Grants & Advising: Recipient of multiple research grants for cultural heritage projects Advisor on over 25 architectural competitions and exhibitions Directed student workshops at MIT, ETH Zurich, and HafenCity University Hamburg Labs/Teams: Co-leads the Anna & Eugeni Bach studio, collaborating on large-scale urban projects and cultural exhibitions across Europe and North America.
Louise Wright is a Professor in the Department of Architecture at Monash University , specializing in sustainable architecture, residential design, and urban planning. Her work emphasizes environmental impact mitigation, landscape integration, and equitable urban development, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to sustainable cities and communities. Australian Institute of Architects' National Architecture Awards (2017): National Commendation for 'Rose House' Victorian Architecture Awards (2017-2019): Multiple recognitions for residential and small project architecture Recent research focuses on urban sprawl, climate-responsive design, and biophilic architecture, exemplified by publications like Buildings & Living Things: Garden House (2023) and collaborative projects addressing land use inequality. She actively engages in public lectures and design events, advocating for innovative approaches to domestic and urban spaces. Key collaborations include work with architects such as M. Baracco , C. Murphy , and N. Bertram , with recent projects highlighted in international media outlets like DOMUS and Architecture & Design.
Anahita Sal Moslehian is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow with the HOME Strategic Research & Innovation Centre at Deakin University's School of Architecture & Built Environment. With a PhD in Architecture from Deakin University (2022), her work focuses on the intersection of architectural design and human wellbeing, specializing in evidence-based approaches to creating health-promoting environments. Her educational background includes: PhD in Architecture, Deakin University (2022) Dr. Moslehian's research spans healthcare architecture, particularly hospital design evolution and innovation, while also exploring social and affordable housing, family-friendly apartment design, and biophilic design principles. She employs mixed methods approaches, including grounded theory, to understand how the built environment affects human health, behavior, and social outcomes across diverse populations and contexts. Her work often examines the socio-political dimensions that shape architectural design and its real-world impacts. Analysis of her publication record reveals strong thematic consistency with recurring emphasis on health-promoting environments, design innovation in healthcare facilities, and innovative housing solutions for vulnerable populations. Her research combines architectural theory with practical applications, particularly in the Australian context, demonstrating how spatial design affects specific activities (like cooking and dining) and how innovative housing models can address homelessness through well-designed transitional solutions. Dr. Moslehian is an EDAC-certified researcher (Evidence-Based Design Accreditation and Certification), reflecting her commitment to rigorous, evidence-based approaches in architectural design. Her collaborative projects with the Biophilia Lab on mental health facilities and community housing providers on transitional housing models demonstrate her dedication to practical, impactful research that addresses pressing social issues through thoughtful architectural design. Her current work with the HOME Research Centre includes evaluating compact modular units for homeless men and applying biophilic design frameworks in mental health facilities, representing a careful integration of housing-first and treatment-first approaches to create supportive transitional environments that promote independence, safety, and community connectedness.
Mark Taylor is an Associate Professor at the School of Architecture and affiliated with the Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies at the University of Illinois . His work focuses on post-disaster reconstruction, sustainable building materials, and community-centered architectural design in Haiti. Key Research Areas Disaster Recovery Architecture Laminated Bamboo Construction Midwifery Education Infrastructure Passive House Design Taylor's scholarship emphasizes innovative construction sequences and thermal comfort systems in seismic zones. His recent projects include Kay Fanm Yo (Women's House) in Léogâne, Haiti, a response to the 2010 earthquake. Awards include the AIA Central Illinois Outstanding Educator (2011). Invited talks covered topics like sustainable design processes (Solar Decathlon) and post-disaster recovery strategies.
Yuxiang Chen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Alberta. His research focuses on high-performance buildings, net-zero energy systems, and sustainable construction practices. He integrates advanced modeling techniques, renewable energy solutions, and intelligent design strategies to optimize building performance in cold climates. PhD, Building Engineering (2013), Concordia University MASc, Building Engineering (2008), Concordia University BEng, Building Engineering (2006), Concordia University Dr. Chen’s work emphasizes modular construction, thermal energy storage, and data-driven modeling for building systems. He explores the use of robotics in construction, thermal resistance of masonry walls, and energy-efficient community greenhouses tailored for cold regions. His recent publications highlight trends in building thermal dynamics, with a focus on resistor-capacitor (RC) models, hybrid heating systems, and snow accumulation impacts on solar panels. He also contributes to cold-climate energy management and smart home integration.
Kieron Broadhurst is a Lecturer at Curtin University's School of Media, Creative Arts and Social Inquiry (part of the Faculty of Humanities), and serves in the Office of the Provost. His practice spans installation, collaborative projects, and speculative narratives. He holds a PhD in Art (2015–2020) and a First Class Honours in Art (2013), both from Curtin University. His research explores speculative fiction's role in contemporary art, often through interdisciplinary collaborations. Notable works include Border Chronicle (2025, Goolugatup Heathcote), The Rock Pool (2023, Old Customs House), and Earth Coincidence Control Office (2017, FELTspace). These projects blend site-specific installations, performance, and narrative-driven art. His exhibitions frequently engage with institutional critique, science fiction aesthetics, and collaborative authorship. Recent works like Excession (2019) and An Event (2016) highlight his focus on interconnected fictional universes and audience participation. Broadhurst has contributed catalogue essays for numerous exhibitions and completed residencies at Firstdraft (2015) and Fremantle Arts Centre (2013). His practice extends into artist books and curatorial projects, such as Portable Domains (2015).
Maurizio Marco Bocconcino is an Associate Professor in the Department of Structural, Building and Geotechnical Engineering (DISEG) at Politecnico di Torino. He is a member of the Interdepartmental Center R3C (Responsible Risk Resilience Center) and serves as Coordinator of basic subjects for the 2nd year of Engineering. His academic work bridges civil engineering and architectural design, with a strong focus on representation and digital modeling. His research interests include engineering drawing, territorial and urban surveying, geographic information systems (GIS), Building Information Modeling (BIM), data representation, and tools for urban and social regeneration. He investigates methods for surveying historic buildings, urban resilience, and the integration of digital technologies in heritage and urban planning. His work is aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals 11 and 17, emphasizing sustainable cities and collaborative research. Bocconcino's recent publications explore digital archives for academic heritage, analog artifacts in engineering education, urban form, LEAN-BIM integration, and the visualization of social impact. His research outputs span journals such as DISEGNO , International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences , and AGATHÓN , as well as conference proceedings in representation and urban planning disciplines. He is actively involved in research projects, including the EU-funded MAINCODE project on urban climate shelters and multiple commercial consulting contracts as Scientific Manager, focusing on urban and social regeneration. His teaching responsibilities include courses in engineering drawing, digital modeling, and graphic language across Civil, Environmental, and Building Engineering programs. Bocconcino collaborates with researchers such as Mariapaola Vozzola, Giorgio Garzino, Martino Pavignano, and Fabio Manzone. His affiliations with ERC sectors highlight expertise in civil engineering, computational modeling in culture, computer graphics, design, and information systems.
Prof. Sonja Dragojlovic-Oliveira is a Professor in Architecture and Sustainability Design Innovation at the University of Strathclyde. She holds leadership roles as a Thought Leadership Specialist Advisor to the Design Council and board member of the World Green Building Council (Serbia). Her work integrates architecture with sustainability through interdisciplinary collaborations across computer science, environmental science, and sociology. Education: Graduate of the Mackintosh School of Architecture, MSc in Integration of Renewable Energies in Buildings (Metropolitan University London/FEUP), PhD from University of Reading focusing on sustainability-aesthetics evaluation in architectural awards. Research focuses on energy governance systems, smart home technologies, and net-zero modular housing. Notable projects include EPSRC-funded GLOW (energy demand management) and REPLICATE (EU H2020). She leads over £1.2M in active research projects and develops novel methodologies like the 'multimodal visual lexicon' for sustainable design communication. Key contributions include House of Lords committee reports on off-site construction and invited keynotes at the Westminster Social Forum. Her work aligns with UN SDGs addressing climate action and sustainable cities.
