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We perform interdisciplinary research work at the interface of geotechnical, agricultural, biological, and environmental engineering and biotechnology. We are interested in the development and deployment of nature-based and engineered living materials and systems, insitu and or pre-processed, for ground improvement, soil quality enhancement, soil and water conservation, waste management, bioremediation, repair of degraded infrastructure, and improvement of components of the built environment.
Our focus is on the study, development, and use of plants, microbes (bacteria, fungi, lichens, biofilms), and insects, their functional mechanisms and biochemical derivatives (e.g., enzymes) for bio-mediated and bio-inspired engineering applications. Broad areas of application of these technologies include food security, contaminant remediation, ecological restoration (e.g., post wildfire events), soil erosion and dust mitigation, ground improvement, anti-desertification, repair of degraded infrastructure, and decarbonization of the built environment.
We are also interested in digital twin modelling to support system level response to extreme climate events; land sustainability and policy; circular (bio)economy; and development/application of methods and tools for environmental assessment including – EIA, LCA/LCSA, Multi-criteria Decision Analysis, indicators/indices/footprints, for emerging bio-geo-engineering technologies.
Vision
To advance biologically inspired and nature-based engineering solutions as drivers of sustainable infrastructure design and development, enhance resilience, and to address global challenges such as adaptation to extreme conditions, food security, and ecosystem restoration.
Mission
