A structural and mechanical engineer, and artificial intelligence scientist, Dariusz Alterman’s career spans research and development, science and technology, innovation and education. After completing a PhD in civil engineering supported by the NATO Science for Peace Program, he was awarded two prestigious international postdoctoral research fellowships in Japan and New Zealand. Subsequently, at the University of Newcastle he has established productive relationships between industry and academia whilst leading the Energy Efficiency Research Group.

His multidisciplinary background and expertise in many fields has resulted in several novel developments, in particular a pioneering technique in the dynamic thermal assessment of buildings, a numerical analysis of methane explosions in underground mines and a randomness model to predict cancer cell distribution. He is passionate about solving the challenges facing Australian’s carbon emission economy by looking for a seamless and efficient transition from current high carbon-based solutions to more climate-resilient techniques for new and existing constructions.

With focus on project and problem-based learning, Dariusz is looking for a holistic approach to a student experience built around hands-on projects and links between teaching and research. He believes motivation, positive environment, problem-solving, critical analysis and thinking will maximize students’ achievements in their future professional practice and responsibilities towards society. He was the recipient of an excellence in teaching awards in 2020 from Newcastle International College to support his efforts in teaching engineering courses.