NRT-IPP: Smart Construction, Infrastructure, and Buildings through Education, Research, and Cutting-edge Technology

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $4,500,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

The construction industry is poised for a major digital transformation with technological innovations that are set to improve the safety, productivity, and sustainability of the field. To leverage these advanced technologies to their full potential, there is an urgent need for skilled professionals who understand both construction and digital technology. This National Science Foundation Research Traineeship (NRT) award to San Diego State University (SDSU) in collaboration with the University of Virginia (UVA) will develop a comprehensive graduate program in smart construction technologies. The project anticipates training of one hundred and thirty‐five (135) MS students, including thirty-one (31) funded trainees, from fields such as civil engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and computer science. By bridging the gap between traditional construction practices and emerging digital innovations, the program will help create safer worksites, better-performing buildings, and more sustainable infrastructure while opening construction careers to more groups of professionals. The SCIBER-CT (pronounced “cyber city”) NRT program will integrate three technological focus areas within modern construction practices: artificial intelligence and machine learning, robotics and automation, and advanced communications and immersive technologies. The educational framework includes an 18-unit certificate program featuring specialized coursework, research components, and

Key facts

NSF award ID
2440647
Awardee
San Diego State University Foundation (CA)
SAM.gov UEI
H59JKGFZKHL7
PI
Reza Akhavian
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
AI Education/Workforce Develop, Translational Research, Advanced Manufacturing, GRADUATE INVOLVEMENT, SCIENCE, MATH, ENG & TECH EDUCATION
Estimated total
$4,500,000
Funds obligated
$4,500,000
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
09/01/2025 → 08/31/2030