Friday 9 January 2026 12:00pm to 1:30pm
About
Dr Yu Zhang, Assistant Professor in the Department of Architecture at the University of Cambridge, joins us at the DRF Lunchtime Clinic to talk about Balancing High Tech and Resources: Sustainable (Re)generative Structures.
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 digitalization 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 optimization 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 differing 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.
Bio
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, partially funded by NCCR DFAB. 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.
Date:
Friday, 9 January, 2025 - 12:00 to 13:30
Event location:
Seminar Room, Civil Engineering Building, University of Cambridge