Our research combines laboratory and computational work: in soil and rock mechanics, hydraulic engineering and geosciences, as well as in numerical simulation, monitoring and data analysis. Many topics are addressed in collaboration with other faculties, such as big data approaches in transport, digital methods in the construction process, and new tools for planning and operation.
One focus is sustainable construction. At the Graz Center of Sustainable Construction (GCSC), we work with architects on climate-friendly designs, low-carbon materials and the circular economy, from life cycle assessment to the existing building stock. Through the Research Center Railway Systems (RCRS), we also combine expertise with mechanical engineering to further develop the railway system holistically.
In teaching, the range extends from a joint bachelor’s degree in civil engineering sciences and construction management to master’s degrees in structural engineering, infrastructure engineering, geotechnical and hydraulic engineering, and construction management. In addition, NAWI (Natural Sciences) Graz offers degree programmes in the geosciences.
Sustainability and Resource Conservation
Sustainable construction aims to protect the environment throughout the entire life cycle: from planning and construction to operation and maintenance, through to conversion, demolition and reuse. The focus is on building renovation, durable structures, low-carbon materials and the circular economy. Methodologically, the approaches range from life cycle assessment (LCA) and robust design under changing environmental conditions to resilience strategies. Integrated planning, renovation and operation, as well as modelling and simulation, are central components.
Digital Construction
Digital construction provides a consistent foundation for planning, execution and operation. The focus is on integrated models for buildings, subsoil and usage, as well as data-driven methods to support decision-making. This includes data collection and analysis, structural health monitoring, data-driven modelling, machine learning and digital twins. In addition, digital manufacturing processes such as 3D printing, as well as simulation and optimisation tools, are used that extend beyond traditional Building Information Modelling (BIM).
Mobility
Mobility encompasses the planning and further development of efficient, safe and resilient transport systems for cities and regions. One focus is transport planning, in particular the analysis and evaluation of transport networks, forecasting and control methods, and the development of integrated concepts that jointly consider capacity, safety and environmental impacts. The Research Center Railway Systems (RCRS) pools expertise with mechanical engineering to develop the railway system holistically, from infrastructure and operational concepts to monitoring and data-driven optimisation approaches.
Water and Climate
Water is both a resource and a risk, shaping environmental quality and the urban climate. The focus is on water supply, drainage and flood protection, as well as the consequences of heavy rainfall and periods of drought for residential areas and infrastructure. Structural hydraulic engineering complements this spectrum with retention measures, river engineering, watercourse development, renaturation and the expansion of hydropower as a renewable energy source within the framework of safety, ecology and utilisation. Monitoring, modelling and simulation support the effective design of measures and the reduction of risks.