Sean Smith is Director of the Centre for Future Infrastructure at the Edinburgh Futures Institute and Chair of Future Construction in the School of Engineering. His research encompasses net zero delivery, engineering solutions, future sustainable infrastructure, skills and workforce analysis. His research is often inter-disciplinary bringing a range of experts from across the University and externally to deliver impactful outcomes. Sean serves on the University Net Zero programme Board and chairs the ‘Operations Working Group’ as part of the Climate Strategy review. Recent projects include investigations in innovative low carbon heating systems, future workforce capacity delivery for net zero, future infrastructure needs and international projects in Dubai, Italy and South America.
His research and partnerships with industry and public sector have led to over 40 awards and nominations. He has delivered a substantial number of keynote and invited talks to industry, government and academia and serves on a range of external committees and boards for net zero, skills, innovation and standards. He was awarded Honorary Fellowships by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) and Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) due to the positive impact of his work on sustainable development and is an invited member of the UK Clean Growth Network.
