Paul Nicholas

As a researcher at CITA, I initiate and manage interdisciplinary, international and inter sector projects exploring how advanced digital design and fabrication technologies can open up new ways to think about circularity and sustainability within architecture and the built environment. As director of the international masters programme Computation in Architecture, I fast-track research insights into design led education, foster hands on, experimental  and critical learning, and create bridges that connect the studio to industry based knowledge.

I have an extensive track record of developing cutting edge research in biomaterials, robotic incremental sheet forming, predictive and multiscale modelling methods. Much of my research uses design-led led approaches, aims to demonstrate implication at architectural scales, and includes the prototyping of physical objects, digital models and fabrication control workflows. My projects create bridges between architecture and other disciplines including metal and polymer science, robotics and ecology, as well as continuous impact through industry collaboration, international workshops and lectures, exhibitions and publications.

Much of my current research centers on blue biomass, and how organisms such as micro and macro algae, mussel shells, and eelgrass could help us create new low-carbon, circular building materials for bio-construction and bio-renovation. I lead the Building with Blue Biomass global innovation network - check out some of the networks activities here: https://buildingblue.eu/

Beyond these roles, I have exhibited at the Venice Biennale Danish and Australian pavilions, and within the Arsenale in 2025. I am an adjuct professor at the University of Canberra, a member of the Bartlett B-Pro External Examination Board, providing independent oversight and validation of standards to ensure the quality of education in its advanced research-based Master's programmes, a partner on the advisory board of the ARC Centre for Next-Gen Architectural Manufacturing, and an academic advisor to the US based advanced robotic metal fabrication company Machina Labs.