Research at the Department of Civil Engineering
The Department of Civil Engineering is a leader in innovative research, driving new discoveries through exclusive research grants and partnerships with influential industry players. Our research team, many of whom are practising professional engineers, has diverse expertise in high-demand research areas, ensuring our research remains at the forefront of industry needs. Aspiring research students are welcome to join our cutting-edge projects related to structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, environmental engineering, and transportation.
Our Department’s diverse research projects cover a wide variety of topics, such as sustainable development, advanced materials, project management, and hydrology and hydraulics. Our research is centred around four themes, focusing on modern challenges like climate change, urbanisation, and the need for renewable energy:
1. Building Information Modelling (BIM)
We collaborate with leading industry partners, bridging the gap between research and industry needs in infrastructure digital modelling. Our work advances the 3D modelling technology in construction while providing our students with the latest educational tools and training in this area.
2. Hydro-environmental Engineering
We focus on water management challenges with a focus on flood mitigation systems and sustainability. Our projects aim for real-world applications, integrating advanced drainage, real-time monitoring, and native plant landscaping to achieve climate-resilient infrastructure.
3. Sustainable Building Materials
We explore the use and development of renewable and recycled resources to advocate for sustainability in construction. Our research is dedicated to reducing the environmental impact of construction while improving eco-friendly material performance.
4. Sustainability in Infrastructure Development
We examine environmental resilience through emerging green technologies with key projects addressing sustainability in infrastructure solutions. Our work ranges from bio-mediated soil improvement and the challenges of rapid urbanisation to climate adaptation.