Research Interests

• Novel, circular and resource-efficient high-performance construction materials
• Computational, parametric and biomimetic design
• Additive manufacturing and 3D concrete printing
• Structural and material optimisation for efficient construction
• Design for disassembly, reuse and circularity

Biography

Róisín is a chartered architect, certified project manager and researcher specialising in sustainable construction, computational design, nature-inspired geometry and digital fabrication. Her research explores the intersection of novel materials, advanced manufacturing and architectural design, with a particular focus on developing lower-carbon approaches to construction and optimising the use of material and structural resources.

Her work investigates the relationships between material composition, computational geometry, manufacturing processes, structural performance and environmental impact, including additive manufacturing and robotic 3D concrete printing. A particular area of interest is the development and application of alternative cementitious materials incorporating industrial by-products and waste streams, combined with computational design strategies that optimise structural and material efficiency.

Her research draws inspiration from natural geometries and systems, exploring how principles found in nature can inform the design of lightweight, efficient and multifunctional structures. She is particularly interested in how advanced fabrication technologies can enable complex geometries and material systems that would be difficult or impossible to produce using conventional construction methods.

Her work also explores how construction can contribute positively to the natural environment through biodiversity enhancement, climate adaptation and nature-integrated design, including multifunctional architectural and landscape components that provide benefits for both people and ecosystems.

Through a combination of academic research, experimental fabrication and entrepreneurship, Róisín aims to translate emerging materials, computational design methodologies and advanced manufacturing technologies into practical, scalable applications. Her long-term vision is to help create a sustainable, durable and resilient built environment in which humans and nature can thrive.

Innovation

Róisín is the founder of NoMAD, an Earthshot Prize-nominated deep-tech startup developing sustainable 3D concrete printing technologies and low-carbon, biodiversity-enhancing construction products using novel materials, nature-inspired geometries and advanced computational design and digital fabrication.

She was a Fulbright Visiting Researcher at the University of North Carolina, undertaking research in the United States into the development of novel ultra-high-performance geopolymer concrete using electric arc furnace slag and calcined tunnelling waste, in collaboration with Gerdau Steel and The Boring Company.

Her work has been recognised through a Royal Academy of Engineering Enterprise Fellowship, the Innovate UK Women in Innovation Award, and the EIT Women TechEU programme.

Her research and entrepreneurial work brings together materials science, computational design, advanced manufacturing and commercial innovation, with a focus on accelerating the transition towards a more sustainable, resource-efficient and technologically advanced construction industry.