Our News

We’re excited to announce a groundbreaking study authored by Dr. Athanasia K. Kazantzi, a member of MetaInfrastructure.org, recently published in Engineering Structures (DOI: 10.1016/j.engstruct.2024.118123). The paper, titled “Cause-Agnostic Bridge Damage State Identification Utilizing Machine Learning”, introduces innovative methods for identifying bridge damage states using advanced machine learning techniques, independent of the underlying causes.

Key Highlights:

• AI-Driven Diagnostics: Introduces a machine learning framework capable of identifying bridge damage states without requiring specific knowledge of the causes, enabling faster and more accurate assessments.
• Real-World Applications: Demonstrates the scalability and practicality of the framework through case studies, providing actionable insights for infrastructure managers and engineers.
• Improved Efficiency: Highlights how this approach can reduce inspection times and costs while enhancing the safety and resilience of critical transportation infrastructure.

Dr. Kazantzi, a leading expert at MetaInfrastructure.org, underscores the importance of this work:

“Bridges are vital links in our infrastructure networks. Our research equips stakeholders with tools to identify and address damage efficiently, ensuring public safety and the longevity of bridge assets.”

Alignment with Global Goals:

This study supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting innovation in infrastructure management, particularly:

• SDG 9: Innovation in Infrastructure
• SDG 11: Inclusive, Safe, and Sustainable Cities

It also contributes to advancing resilience in transport infrastructure, a key element in climate adaptation and sustainable urban development.

Why This Matters:

With millions of bridges worldwide requiring regular inspection and maintenance, this research provides engineers, policymakers, and infrastructure managers with a cause-agnostic, machine learning-based framework to enhance operational efficiency and safety.

Explore the full paper here and discover how this research is redefining infrastructure diagnostics through artificial intelligence.

MetaInfrastructure.org congratulates Dr. Kazantzi and her research team on their visionary contributions to advancing infrastructure science and practice.

We are proud to announce that MetaInfrastructure.org has achieved an incredible milestone this year by securing three Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships—one Global and two European fellowships—demonstrating our commitment to advancing cutting-edge research in infrastructure, climate resilience, and digital transformation.

Meet Our Exceptional Fellows and Their Groundbreaking Projects

1. Dr. Raffaele Cucuzza
   • Fellowship Type: 3-Year Global MSCA Fellowship
   • Project: REACT – Reusing steel for Emission reduction through AI-driven Cutting-stock Tool
   • Funding: €430,000
   • Score: 97%
2. Dr. George Karagiannakis, Ph.D.
   • Fellowship Type: 2-Year European MSCA Fellowship
   • Project: META-GRID – Climate resilience assessment and adaptation of the European power grid
   • Funding: €260,000
   • Score: 96%
3. Dr. Huamei Zhu
   • Fellowship Type: 2-Year European MSCA Fellowship
   • Project: M-Twin4US – Maintenance-oriented Digital Twin for Underground infrastructure with Sensing, Machine Learning, BIM, and Simulation
   • Funding: €260,000
   • Score: 98%

Advancing Resilient and Digital Infrastructure

These outstanding achievements highlight our rapid growth and dedication to research that supports the EU’s priorities around Net Zero, climate resilience, and digital transformation. Through projects like these, we aim to shape the future of infrastructure with innovative, sustainable, and impactful solutions aligned with Horizon Europe’s mission to foster societal progress across Europe and beyond.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to our brilliant fellows and express gratitude to Dr. Sotirios Argyroudis and Dr. Jelena Ninic for their exceptional contributions to advancing resilient and digital infrastructure.

We are thrilled to share that the ZEBAI project has been featured on BUILD UP, the EU’s largest portal dedicated to energy efficiency and renewable energy in buildings. This recognition highlights the project’s commitment to transforming sustainable construction through real-world demonstrators and innovative methodologies.

Our mission in ZEBAI is to optimize energy efficiency, environmental impact, and cost-effectiveness, paving the way for advancements in sustainable building practices.

Recently, members of the ZEBAI consortium gathered at the University of Birmingham to celebrate our one-year milestone during the 2nd General Assembly. The event, held in front of the iconic Aston Webb building, was a moment to reflect on our progress while setting ambitious goals for the future. Fun fact: Sir Aston Webb, the British architect who designed the building, was also responsible for the principal façade of Buckingham Palace. At ZEBAI, we honor his legacy by designing facades too—but with artificial intelligence!

Read the full BUILD UP article here: BUILD UP – ZEBAI on BUILD UP Portal

Together, we’re driving innovation and creating impactful solutions for a more sustainable future. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue advancing the ZEBAI project!

Last week, members of MetaInfrastructure proudly participated in the 2nd General Assembly of the ZEBAI consortium, hosted at the University of Birmingham. This milestone event was a key moment in the consortium’s journey under the Horizon Europe programme, bringing together partners to align our vision and efforts.

The assembly featured insightful updates on ongoing work packages, engaging discussions, and practical workshops. These activities helped establish ambitious objectives for the coming months. The event also provided an excellent opportunity to strengthen collaboration among partners, concluding with a wonderful dinner that celebrated the connections within the consortium.

We extend our gratitude to all participants for contributing to such a productive and inspiring gathering. The progress achieved so far under Horizon Europe reflects the dedication and teamwork of every partner involved.

As part of the ZEBAI consortium, MetaInfrastructure is committed to driving innovative solutions that support sustainability, zero emissions, and advancements in artificial intelligence. Together, we are shaping a more sustainable and impactful future!

In a recent episode of the Emerald Podcast Series, host Rebecca Torr spoke with Dr. Stergios Mitoulis, Associate Professor at the University of Birmingham, about the urgent challenges of aging bridge infrastructure. Many urban bridges, built in the 1960s and 70s, are now surpassing their intended lifespans, leading to issues like structural deterioration and increased traffic loads exacerbated by climate change.

Dr. Mitoulis emphasized that maintaining and upgrading bridges is essential for urban sustainability, as they facilitate efficient transportation and reduce CO2 emissions. He highlighted the role of smart technologies, including sensors and AI, in revolutionizing bridge management through real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance.

However, implementing these technologies faces challenges, such as high costs and the need for specialized training. Dr. Mitoulis stressed the importance of combining technological advancements with traditional engineering expertise to ensure effective decision-making.

He also called for robust policies that mandate regular inspections and preventive maintenance, emphasizing that proactive measures are crucial to mitigate climate change impacts. Looking ahead, Dr. Mitoulis envisions bridges that not only enhance connectivity but also promote sustainability and resilience within communities.

The Metainfrastructure Group convened today at the University of Birmingham, uniting experts and students from various disciplines to discuss innovative approaches to infrastructure resilience, sustainability, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI).

During the meeting, members shared insights on current projects and explored collaborative opportunities to address pressing challenges in urban infrastructure. Key topics included advancements in sustainable materials, smart technology integration, and community engagement strategies. A significant focus was placed on how AI can enhance decision-making processes in infrastructure planning and management.

Participants discussed the potential of AI-driven analytics to optimize resource allocation, predict infrastructure failures, and improve overall system efficiency. The group emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in developing solutions that not only enhance infrastructure resilience but also promote environmental sustainability.

The Metainfrastructure Group looks forward to continuing its work and fostering partnerships that contribute to creating a more sustainable and resilient future for urban environments. Stay tuned for updates on their initiatives and upcoming events!

Dr. Stergios Aristoteles Mitoulis was recently interviewed by Emerald Publishing to discuss the critical role of bridges in the development of smart cities. As vital components of urban infrastructure, bridges play a significant role in improving connectivity, resilience, and sustainability in modern cities.

During the interview, Dr. Mitoulis highlighted innovative approaches to bridge design and maintenance, emphasizing how emerging technologies, such as smart sensors and data-driven solutions, are transforming traditional infrastructure into intelligent systems. His insights underline the importance of integrating advanced engineering solutions to create smarter, safer, and more efficient urban environments.

This recognition further establishes Dr. Mitoulis as a leading expert in resilient and sustainable infrastructure.

Dr. Stergios-Aristoteles Mitoulis, from the School of Engineering at the University of Birmingham, recently visited China to foster international collaboration and share cutting-edge research. The visit included stops at Tongji University in Shanghai and Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) in Wuhan, where Dr. Mitoulis delivered a series of lectures showcasing the research achievements of the University of Birmingham and the innovative work of the FutureStructures and MetaInfrastructure research groups.

The hybrid events, attended by hundreds of undergraduate, MSc, and PhD students, as well as academic staff, provided an excellent platform for discussing research advancements and exploring potential synergies. The enthusiastic response from both universities highlighted a shared interest in strengthening existing collaborations and building new partnerships.

Dr. Mitoulis expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and meticulous planning by the hosting universities, particularly thanking Professor Min Ouyang, Professor Xiaowei Wang, Professor Zhongkai Huang, and the university management teams. Special appreciation was given to Professor Fang Liu and Professor Dongmei Zhang, Deans of Tongji University, for their efforts in ensuring a productive and memorable visit.

This visit underscores the University of Birmingham’s commitment to global engagement and collaboration, further solidifying its ties with leading institutions in China.