Simone is a PhD candidate in Computational Science and Engineering and Civil Engineering at MIT, where she researches structural optimization methods to reduce embodied carbon in concrete buildings. Before joining MIT, she received a B.Sc. and M.Sc. (hons) in Civil Engineering and Computational Mechanics from the Technical University of Munich, Germany. Alongside her research, she is active in outreach and industry initiatives that advance sustainable construction.
Research Description: The construction industry has a major environmental impact, with a substantial share of global carbon emissions arising from the materials used to build structures. Concrete is a central focus because it is used at enormous scale, contributes significantly to embodied carbon, and at the same time offers considerable design flexibility through formwork. This research develops optimization methods to improve material efficiency across multiple scales, from beams and floor systems to whole buildings. By combining structural mechanics, computational modeling, and sustainability, it aims to advance performance-driven design workflows for lower-impact construction.