Dr Yu Zhang
You are very welcome to join us either in person or online, and can sign up here: https://buytickets.at/martincentre/2233894
Lecture abstract:
With rapid advances in computational power, algorithms, and fabrication technologies, digital tools are transforming practices across the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. Yet digitalisation alone does not guarantee sustainability. Truly sustainable structures require a holistic, life-cycle perspective that integrates environmental, economic, social, and cultural considerations.
This talk demonstrates the role of digital technologies in sustainable design, fabrication, and construction, challenging the assumption that “more technology” necessarily leads to better outcomes. Drawing on research and real-world case studies, it explores how high-tech computational design and optimisation can be thoughtfully combined with low-tech materials, construction methods, and local knowledge—particularly in low-resource contexts. The presentation highlights strategies for balancing performance, affordability, and social impact while navigating the different priorities of designers, engineers, communities, and policymakers. Ultimately, the talk argues for a context-responsive, stakeholder-driven approach to digital innovation that supports meaningful and enduring sustainability rather than technological novelty alone.
Speaker bio:
Dr Yu Zhang is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Architecture at the University of Cambridge. Her research focuses on sustainable and (re)generative structures in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry, integrating digital technologies with sustainable design and construction processes. Her work evaluates ecological, economic, and social sustainability across the full life cycle of structures, aiming to develop efficient design frameworks for innovative, high-performance, and user-responsive structures.
Yu has a multidisciplinary background spanning structural engineering, architecture, mechanical engineering, and computer science. She holds a master’s degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a PhD from ETH Zurich. She also worked at the Multidisciplinary Design Optimization Team at Disney Research. Yu aims to advance the AEC industry toward a net-zero future through cross-disciplinary, impact-driven collaboration.