Dr Alba Fuertes

I am an Associate Professor in Construction Management and Engineering at the University of Reading, contributing to research on climate change and the built environment, with a particular focus on adaptation and resilience.

My current research centres on climate change adaptation of construction organisations, with a strong emphasis on heat stress prevention. Together with industry partners, I investigate how rising temperatures affect construction workers’ health and wellbeing, and develop strategies to improve prevention, awareness and resilience in the construction sector. Alongside this, I maintain an interest in building performance and energy efficiency in relation to occupants’ health and wellbeing.

I lead the Organisation, People and Technology research group, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and supporting the development of researchers. I also serve as REF UoA13 Impact Lead, and REF outputs internal reviewer, shaping the REF29 submission for the UoA13 at the University of Reading.

I have a strong track record of securing research funding from a range of UK and European funding bodies, as well as through collaboration with industry and external academic partners. This supports applied research addressing key challenges in climate adaptation and the future resilience of the built environment.

My research is closely aligned with industry and policy, delivering outcomes that inform practice and support the transition towards climate-resilient and healthy built environments.

I am particularly interested in establishing research collaborations with industry and attracting research funding that can benefit both university and professional organisations. Specific research areas of interest are:

• Climate change adaptation and resilience
  
  
• Effects of weather on construction workers’ H&S and wellbeing
  
  
• Effects of weather on construction productivity
  
  
• Climate change risks assessment in construction projects