​​Multi-Hazard Risk Assessment and Performance Analysis of Timber Buildings under Sequential Earthquake and Fire Events

​The primary objectives of this research are to: (1) evaluate the interactions between earthquake-induced structural damage and ensuing fire hazards; (2) develop an integrated methodology to quantify building vulnerability and resilience under sequential hazard scenarios; and (3) formulate detailed fragility curves for performance-based design applications. 

​The research methodology involves three interconnected phases. Initially, various seismic scenarios representative of realistic earthquake events will be simulated, assessing the resultant structural and non-structural damage. Critical parameters, such as inter-story drift ratios and floor acceleration, will quantify these damages. Subsequently, potential fire ignition points and spread dynamics will be analysed, incorporating factors like earthquake-induced damage severity and environmental conditions. 

​In the final phase, this research integrates the seismic and fire hazard analyses to develop fragility models. These models will effectively quantify the probabilities associated with different damage states and threshold conditions critical to structural integrity and safety. Comparative analyses against single-hazard scenarios will further highlight the compounded risks and structural vulnerabilities unique to multi-hazard events. 

​This research fills a critical gap by providing robust analytical methodologies and guidelines to improve the resilience of timber buildings against sequential earthquake and fire events. The findings will inform updates to current design codes, foster safer and more resilient urban development, and support the sustainability and durability of timber construction.​ 

he anticipated findings of this research will provide details into how earthquake damage can influence the vulnerability of timber buildings to fire. It is expected that the simulations and analyses will clearly demonstrate specific areas of structural weakness and identify critical damage points that increase susceptibility to subsequent fires. 

​The research will contribute new knowledge by developing comprehensive fragility assessments specifically for timber buildings under multi-hazard conditions, which has not been extensively studied previously. The integrated fragility models created will quantify the combined risks of earthquakes and fires, providing predictive capabilities currently unavailable. This multi-hazard approach will allow for more informed and effective building design and risk management, addressing the complexity and interaction of sequential hazards. 

​Additionally, the research is expected to produce new guidelines and recommendations for structural design, explicitly addressing multi-hazard scenarios.  

​Additionally, progressive collapse analysis will be conducted to understand the potential for catastrophic failure following sequential hazard impacts. This multi-hazard approach will allow for more informed and effective building design and risk management, addressing the complexity and interaction of sequential hazards.​ 

​​The successful applicant will hold a BSc and MSc in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Earthquake Engineering, or a closely related discipline. A strong understanding of structural mechanics and dynamics, as well as the behaviour of engineering materials, is essential. Applicants should also demonstrate a solid foundation in earthquake engineering principles and a clear understanding of how structures perform under seismic loading conditions. A basic knowledge of fire dynamics and the performance of buildings in fire scenarios is also required. 

​Experience with numerical modelling and finite element analysis is essential, particularly in the context of simulating structural behaviour under extreme loads. Candidates should possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to critically evaluate results and develop innovative approaches. The ability to work independently while also contributing effectively within a collaborative research team is crucial.