Welcome to the NU Digital Innovation in Construction & Engineering Lab (NU-DICE Lab)

Our NU-DICE Lab is dedicated to advancing the digitalisation and digital transformation of the construction and engineering industries. Our work spans interdisciplinary domains, with a core focus on developing and applying digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of decisions and outcomes within built environment and engineering projects.

Our Key Research Areas

• Digitalisation of Construction and Engineering Projects:
  We investigate innovative solutions and strategies to digitize workflows and processes, transforming traditional methods, unlocking new business models and value proposition. 

• Digital Twins for Construction and Urban Environments:
  We are actively developing and applying Digital Twin technologies for the planning, construction, and operation of  built and urban environments, enabling 'real'-time monitoring and data-centric decision-making.

• Data-Centric Construction:
  We emphasize the importance of data as a foundational asset, developing tools and techniques for data collection, analysis, and application across project lifecycles. Our research span the entre lifecycle of projects from design, through construction, to operaton and use. 

• Decarbonisation through Digitalisation:
  Our research examines how digital technologies can drive decarbonisation efforts, supporting sustainable development goals within the construction sector.

• BIM-Enabled Digital Transformation Policies:
  We contribute to policy development and strategic frameworks that promote the integration of Building Information Modelling (BIM) into construction practices.

• Blockchain Applications in Construction:
  Our team investigates blockchain's potential to enhance transparency, traceability, and security in construction supply chains, contracts, and project management.

• Virtual and Augmented Reality Applications:
  We create immersive solutions for design, training, and project visualization, enhancing stakeholder collaboration and understanding. 

• Performance Management Studies:
  We develop performance metrics and peformance management approaches for projects, organisations and individuals. 

• Project and Construction Management:
  We focus on innovative methodologies for managing construction and engineering projects to achieve project outputs and enhance their outcomes. 

We actively pursue collaborative research and development (R&D) opportunities, including joint applications for grant funding within the UK, Europe and beyond. We welcome collaboration with researchers, industry professionals, and technology developers at any stage of their career or project. Whether you're interested in theoretical models or practical solutions, we invite you to connect with us to drive progress and impact together.