Research
Driving innovation in architecture, arts, and design research at Virginia Tech
In AAD, research is not just a pursuit — it’s a powerful catalyst for transformation.
Our culture of research and creative scholarship is characterized by collaboration, curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to human-centered impact. And our faculty and students are deeply engaged in projects that reimagine how we live, connect, and create.
Whether you are a faculty member seeking collaborators, an industry or community partner ready to engage, or a student eager to contribute, you’ll find a vibrant network here. Our work is as varied as our people, but united by a drive to create meaningful change.
Explore the people and projects shaping change, and the centers that power their work.
Meet Karine Dupre: Your partner in research success
As associate dean for research and creative scholarship, Karine Dupre is here to help you navigate and grow your research portfolio. She and her team can answer questions about sponsored research, provide guidance on your next proposal, and connect you with collaborators. Think of her as both a partner and a matchmaker — supporting your success while linking researchers with shared passions and complementary expertise.
Ready to connect? Email Karine Dupre at kdupre@vt.edu to start the conversation.
Explore AAD research in the news
Catch up on stories of innovation and impact happening across the college, at Virginia Tech, and beyond. Check back regularly for new features highlighting faculty and student collaborative research.
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See how collaboration drives faculty research
Faculty researchers thrive on collaboration — across disciplines, throughout the university, and with partners beyond the campus. Together, they tackle complex challenges, expand knowledge, and create meaningful impact.
One example is Sida Dai (at left, above), assistant professor of architecture, whose responsive sound space project explores how acoustics can adapt in real time. Supported by an AAD Faculty- Initiated Research Grant and working alongside colleagues in architecture, performing arts, and visual arts, Dai is developing flexible, responsive environments that improve communication, learning, and performance experiences.
Meet the student researchers shaping tomorrow
Student researchers play a meaningful role in advancing knowledge and creativity in our college. Whether contributing to faculty-led projects or pursuing their own ideas, students have the chance to experiment, collaborate, and make an impact. In AAD, both undergraduate and graduate students can delve into research, gaining experience, testing ideas, and pursuing their passions.
A standout example is the evaporative cooling partitions project led by Professor Brook Kennedy (at second from left, above), where students worked alongside faculty in industrial design, architecture, and construction to design and 3D-print prototypes inspired by ancient technologies. Their work explored sustainable solutions to rising temperatures and demonstrated how hands-on research can address global challenges in real time.
Connect through our research centers
Our centers and institutes bring together faculty, students, and partners to spark innovation. These hubs extend the reach of AAD research, connecting creators and collaborators across disciplines at Virginia Tech and affording them opportunities to impact local communities and regions beyond Southwest Virginia.