About the Resilient Systems and Climate Action Group
In the School of Engineering, we have a long history of research into transport, water, and power systems. These infrastructure systems are a cornerstone of our modern societies. However, aging infrastructure and a changing climate mean that traditional engineering approaches must adapt to ensure that these systems continue to work effectively. In response our research has evolved to better capture and support the needs of people and the environment.
To deliver this crucial work we come together as a dynamic and interdisciplinary research group: Resilient Systems and Climate Action (RSCA). RSCA is part of the Centre for Excellence in Future Infrastructure and Cities at UoB. Our exciting programme of research aims to address the challenges of legacy infrastructure through a portfolio of education, modelling, and decision-making frameworks that drive changes in policy and embed consideration of our natural environment and communities. In doing so we are creating a safer, more sustainable, and resilient world.
RSCA values an inclusive and interdisciplinary approach to research, recognising that we can achieve more together. We aim to ensure that our research is open access so that it can be read and reproduced by anyone. We collaborate globally with institutions, organisations and individuals who share our passion for resilience and climate action.
Our work contributes to the achievement of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with a particular focus on SDGs 9, 11 and 13. We are taking action to combat climate change and adapting to its impacts. We are turning our research into action by harnessing digital technologies and creating advanced modelling capability to solve real world problems.
We recognise that effective knowledge exchange is crucial to creating impact. By providing thought leadership and liaising with key stakeholders, our research influences policy agendas which will create a resilient future for all. We also leverage our expertise as educators and communicators to widely share our work. By presenting at international conferences and collaborating with experts around the world, we are raising our profile on the international stage.
RSCA is led by Professor Andrew Quinn, Professor of Climate Adaptation, who is supported by a diverse group of researchers with expertise across a wide range of subjects including asset management, climate adaptation, hazard modelling, critical infrastructure (power, roads, transport, and water), and nature-based solutions. Our group are actively involved in leading research across these areas through efforts including:
- Infrastructure Operators’ Adaptation Forum: facilitating knowledge exchange.
- Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers’ Modern and Future Distribution System Planning Working Group: informing the electricity grid of the future.
- Met Office Academic Partnership: informing hazard decision-making.
- Net Zero Together Bootcamp: upskilling employees to become champions of green skills, sustainability, and net zero within their organisations.
- Trees and Design Action Group: supporting sustainability of our urban spaces.
Our strength comes from our consideration of the interdependencies across these areas, bridging academia, communities, industry, and policymakers to deliver holistic solutions and enact change.
Get in touch to find out how we’re changing the world and how you can too.