Research Statement

My research endeavors are centered around investigating the intricate cause-and-effect dynamics between buildings and their surrounding environments. My primary focus lies in the realm of low-energy, environmentally friendly designs that span a diverse array of subjects. These subjects encompass energy performance, thermal comfort, ventilation, building materials, daylight utilization, climate change, and innovative design strategies. The overarching objective driving my research is the development of effective energy solutions, well-informed design principles, and decision support tools, all intended to elevate the quality and performance of architectural structures.

In our current era, the pursuit of sustainable buildings has become imperative and demands astute integration of energy efficiency and eco-conscious choices within the fabric of architectural designs. This endeavor is not just about engineering structures; it's about crafting spaces that harmonize productivity and environmental consciousness. The energy consumption of buildings has emerged as a pivotal concern, with a direct bearing on global greenhouse gas emissions. Notably, the buildings sector accounts for approximately 40% of global energy consumption, consumes 25% of the world's water supply, depletes 40% of global resources, and contributes to nearly a third of all greenhouse gas emissions. By curbing energy usage and mitigating emissions linked to buildings, we hold the power to shape the trajectory of our planet.

A notable milestone in my research journey is the acquisition of a prestigious research grant from the University of Sharjah. This grant propels my exploration into innovative demand response mechanisms and the seamless assimilation of renewable energy within institutional buildings. The sprawling canvas of the University of Sharjah's campus serves as an empirical case study for my investigation. The crux of this research lies in formulating and optimizing demand response strategies and subsequently implementing them within institutional frameworks. The ultimate goal is a substantial reduction in electricity consumption across the United Arab Emirates.

My academic pursuits are fervently driven by the imperative of transforming sustainability paradigms and unraveling novel techniques for bolstering building performance. In this journey, I have substantively contributed to the discourse through multiple published papers, each encapsulating a unique facet of my research endeavors.

In the publication titled "Termite as Biomimicry Solution for Enhancing Building Envelope: A Comparative Model Case Study in the UAE" (AlShuhail, Aldawoud, Syarif, & Abu Abdoun, 2023), I delve into biomimicry applications aimed at enhancing building envelopes. This study emphasizes the practical implementation of eco-conscious concepts, exploring how nature-inspired solutions can contribute to sustainable architectural practices. In another contribution, the paper "Reducing PV soiling and condensation using hydrophobic coating with brush and controllable curtains" (Aldawoud et al., 2022) investigates strategies to mitigate soiling and enhance the performance of photovoltaic systems. This research significantly contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable energy solutions, addressing practical challenges in optimizing the efficiency of renewable energy technologies. Furthermore, my work on "Energy Retrofitting of Public Transport Bus Stations in the UAE" (Aldawoud, 2022) directly engages with real-world challenges. This publication explores strategies to improve the energy efficiency of public infrastructure, aligning with the overarching goal of transforming sustainability paradigms within the built environment. Through this research, I aim to bridge the gap between academic inquiry and practical applications, fostering positive changes in the energy performance of essential public facilities.

These publications, among others, underscore my holistic approach to sustainable architecture, addressing critical aspects such as compressed natural gas as a fuel source, life-cycle cost analysis for hydroelectric energy systems, and techno-economic and life cycle environmental performance analysis of a biomass-powered steam power plant (Aldawoud et al., 2022). By contributing substantively to these diverse areas, I aim to shape the future of environmentally conscious and energy-efficient building practices. My research is not merely an academic pursuit; it is a commitment to effecting positive change in the built environment and advancing our understanding of sustainable architectural solutions.