University News Last updated 21 April
Birmingham City University (BCU) academic Dr Saeed Talebi has been named in The Built List 2026, a prestigious report highlighting 100 of the most influential voices shaping the future of the built environment.
The Built List celebrates innovators and thought leaders who are driving change, shaping public conversations, influencing policy, and raising the profile of the sector.
Dr Talebi, Associate Professor in the Built Environment at BCU, is featured in the Digitalisation Top 20, one of five critical themes the report identifies for the sector’s future.
He was recognised for his pioneering work on Digital Twin technology, particularly his ability to translate digital innovation into practical solutions that enhance the design, operation, and maintenance of buildings and infrastructure.
His work bridges the gap between academic research and industry practice, helping organisations tackle real-world challenges as the sector undergoes rapid digital transformation. The full report is available here.
Notably, Dr Talebi is the only academic in the Digitalisation category and one of just two academics featured across the entire list, alongside a professor from UCL.
“I am honoured to be recognised among such an exceptional group of professionals who are driving our industry forward," he said.
"Being part of this list is a wonderful acknowledgment of that mission.”
Peter Baldwin, Head of Department of Architecture and Built Environment at BCU, said: “Saeed’s inclusion in The Built List 2026 is a well-deserved recognition of the high-quality research and enterprise projects our department is delivering. It is excellent to see the impact of his work acknowledged at this level.”