Nebyu Haile is an MIT PhD researcher in Building Technology specializing in sustainable structural innovation. By merging computational mechanics with traditional masonry, he develops low-carbon vaulted floor systems that replace carbon-intensive materials with local alternatives. His work empowers communities through resilient, scalable infrastructure, fostering regional economic growth and climate-conscious design.
Research Description: Addressing the global climate crisis by reimagining the structural floor, the most carbon-intensive component of modern buildings. By integrating computational mechanics with traditional masonry principles, I am developing efficient unreinforced vaulted slabs designed for construction with locally sourced materials. This approach reduces reliance on expensive imported, carbon-intensive steel and cement while lowering the embodied carbon and cost of high-density housing. These vaulted systems are designed to be implemented through local labor, fostering specialized skills and keeping capital within the community to spur regional economies. Through experimental validation and the creation of accessible design tools, the work provides a scalable pathway for resilient, low-carbon infrastructure that harmonizes structural efficiency with local economic empowerment.