Master of Philisophy - Built Environment

The Master of Philosophy in Built Environment at UNSW covers research strengths including extreme weather and climate modelling, biodiversity and marine ecology, advanced manufacturing and waste reduction, food and water sustainability, climate risk and response, and sustainable cities and construction, with researchers combining expertise in climate dynamics, ecology, economics and urban design.

UNSW has several prominent researchers in this field, including Professor Deo Prasad, an international authority in sustainable buildings and cities; Scientia Professor Veena Sahajwalla, who transforms waste into new green materials; Professor Jason Sharples, an internationally recognised authority in dynamic bushfire behaviour; and Professor David Waite, an expert in water quality, water and wastewater treatment.

UNSW is advancing resilient smart cities by integrating high-performance architecture with urban planning, policy, and technology research. Researchers reduce embodied carbon and waste in the AEC sector through sustainable materials, hybrid structures, and intelligent systems. From ultra-tall buildings to high-density housing, they use big data and energy design to mitigate the urban heat island effect, creating positive environmental, social, and economic outcomes.

Yes, UNSW actively encourages collaboration with industry, government and the community. The university offers R&D partnerships and opportunities to conduct PhD research with UNSW. Prospective partners can get in touch to find an expert matched to their specific research area or project, and UNSW also hosted the Futures Expo Series in 2024 to bring together businesses, investors, and government to explore collaboration opportunities.

UNSW explores the risks associated with climate change including its impact on health, ecosystems, urban systems, financial stability and transnational migration. This requires a deep understanding of not only the underlying climate science, but also the legal, commercial, institutional and policy levers required to respond. Research covers everything from coastal engineering and monitoring to risk communication and climate policy, with actuaries regularly consulting on climate risk accounting, finance and insurance.