Engineering the Next Generation of Resilient Infrastructure
UBC Smart Structures develops safer, smarter, and more sustainable building systems through structural engineering, large-scale experimentation, artificial intelligence, robotics, and data-driven construction.
Department of Civil Engineering, The University of British Columbia
Innovative Engineering for the Built Environment
Our research brings together structural engineering, experimental testing, advanced simulation, automation, and intelligent technologies. We develop practical solutions that improve the safety, sustainability, efficiency, and resilience of buildings and infrastructure.
Earthquake-Resilient Structures
We develop and test high-performance structural systems designed to protect buildings, infrastructure, and communities during earthquakes and other extreme events.
Learn More →Smart & Automated Construction
We apply artificial intelligence, robotics, automation, and digital technologies to make construction faster, safer, and more efficient.
Learn More →Modular & Low-Carbon Buildings
We explore modular construction, engineered timber, and sustainable materials to create efficient building systems with lower environmental impact.
Learn More →Structural Health Monitoring
We use sensors, data analytics, computer vision, and intelligent inspection systems to understand structural behaviour and monitor performance in real time.
Learn More →From Simulation to Full-Scale Testing
Our team supports projects from early-stage concept development to experimental validation and industry implementation.
Advanced Structural Simulation
Nonlinear analysis, performance-based design, seismic evaluation, and computational modelling of complex structural systems.
Large-Scale Experimental Testing
Experimental evaluation of structural components, connections, building systems, and new construction technologies.
Artificial Intelligence & Robotics
AI-supported design, robotic construction, automated inspection, computer vision, and intelligent construction equipment.
Industry Collaboration
Collaborative research, technology development, prototype testing, design guidance, and knowledge transfer.
Latest Updates
UBC Civil Engineering Leads $8.27M National Initiative to Boost Housing Supply and Reduce Climate Impact Through Sustainable Modular Construction
UBC Civil Engineering is leading a national initiative to develop high-performance, low-carbon, and energy-efficient modular building systems for the future of housing.
Read More →
UBC Civil Engineering’s Insights on the 4.7-magnitude Earthquake that Shook Southern B.C
The February 21 earthquake highlighted the importance of seismic preparedness, infrastructure resilience, structural safety, and earthquake early-warning systems in British Columbia.
Read More →
UBC Civil Insights on Vancouver Seismic Risk Report
UBC Civil Engineering experts discuss seismic risk in Vancouver, including vulnerable buildings, neighbourhoods, and the need for stronger earthquake resilience planning.
Read More →Research Is a Team Effort
Our multidisciplinary team includes faculty members, postdoctoral researchers, research associates, graduate students, visiting scholars, technical specialists, and collaborators from around the world.
Professor Tony T.Y. Yang
Department of Civil Engineering
The University of British Columbia
Professor Tony T.Y. Yang leads UBC Smart Structures, a multidisciplinary research group advancing structural and earthquake engineering. His research combines advanced analytical simulation, experimental testing, innovative structural systems, and intelligent construction technologies.
Working with researchers, students, industry partners, and government organizations, Professor Yang’s team develops practical solutions for safer, more resilient, and more sustainable buildings and infrastructure.
View Professor Yang’s Profile →Partner With UBC Smart Structures
We collaborate with industry, government, academic institutions, and research organizations to develop and validate innovative structural systems and construction technologies.
Connect With UBC Smart Structures
Have a question about our research, team, testing capabilities, collaboration opportunities, or graduate research? Get in touch with the UBC Smart Structures team.
Professor Tony T.Y. Yang
Professor
Department of Civil Engineering
The University of British Columbia
Email
yang@civil.ubc.ca
Telephone
604-822-3864
Sepehr Rahimi
Research Program Coordinator
Department of Civil Engineering
The University of British Columbia
Email
sepehr.rahimi@ubc.ca
UBC Smart Structures
Department of Civil Engineering
6250 Applied Science Lane
Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z4