Research Centers and Institutes

Research at Kyiv National University of Construction and Architecture (KNUCA) is a core element of the university’s mission, contributing to scientific advancement, innovation, and the preparation of specialists capable of addressing complex real-world challenges. KNUCA has a well-developed research infrastructure that includes five research institutes, six research laboratories, and seven scientific and research centers, enabling interdisciplinary work across architecture, urban planning, civil and structural engineering, environmental technologies, geotechnics, construction management, and digital systems.

These units bring together faculty members, researchers, and doctoral students to conduct both fundamental and applied studies, fostering innovation that addresses current and emerging challenges

in construction science, sustainable development, and infrastructure resilience. KNUCA supports this work with modern facilities, testing equipment, and collaborative platforms that enhance the quality and impact of research.

Volodymyr Hlukhovskyi Research Institute of Binders

The Volodymyr Hlukhovskyi Research Institute of Binders is one of the university’s key research units specializing in the development of advanced construction materials. The institute possesses strong scientific expertise and a well-developed research infrastructure that supports both fundamental and applied studies.

Its activities focus on the development of innovative, high-performance materials with specific properties designed to meet the evolving needs of the construction industry. Particular attention is given to environmentally sustainable materials and technologies that address contemporary ecological challenges while improving the durability and efficiency of construction systems.

Research Institute of Structural Mechanics

The Research Institute of Structural Mechanics conducts fundamental and applied research in the theory and methods of analyzing the strength, stability, and dynamic behavior of complex spatial structures under various external influences of different physical nature.

Based on these studies, the institute’s specialists develop problem-oriented and application-specific software solutions that support advanced structural analysis and engineering design.

Scientific and Educational Center for the Design and Research of Nearly Zero-Energy Buildings (NZEB Hub)

The NZEB Hub is one of the leading innovation centers in Ukraine dedicated to energy-efficient design, construction, and regulatory development. It is part of the European Train-to-NZEB training center network and remains the only such center in Ukraine.

More than 1,500 specialists have already completed training here in the fields of energy efficiency, sustainable construction, and green architecture. The center develops design solutions for energy-efficient residential, public, industrial, and infrastructure buildings, including modular rapid-deployment housing and protective engineering structures.

The NZEB Hub has also implemented Ukraine’s first adaptive reuse projects for educational institutions, prioritizing energy performance, environmental sustainability, safety, and accessibility. In addition, a scientific school dedicated to energy efficiency and sustainability in construction and architecture has been established within the center.

Research Laboratory of Numerical Methods in Geotechnics

The Research Laboratory of Numerical Methods in Geotechnics studies natural and human-induced landslide processes across Ukraine and develops advanced methods for assessing and calculating slope stability, taking into account both active and passive factors influencing their formation.

The laboratory also performs numerical simulations of interactions within the “soil foundation – foundation – structure” system under seismic loads, contributing to the development of reliable and safe engineering design solutions.

Research Laboratory of Foundations and Substructures in Complex Engineering-Geological Conditions

This laboratory conducts geotechnical studies aimed at refining the characteristics of upper soil layers, including engineered soil cushions used in foundation systems.

Its specialists perform static pile load testing at construction sites and prepare expert assessments as well as scientific and technical reports based on engineering-geological investigations and technical inspections of construction projects. The laboratory’s work contributes to ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of foundation design and construction in complex ground conditions.

Research Institute of the Theory and History of Architecture, Urban Planning, and Design

The Research Institute of the Theory and History of Architecture, Urban Planning, and Design focuses on developing theoretical foundations for architecture and urban development, with particular attention to the social and spatial organization of specialized-purpose territories.

The institute also contributes to the development of regulatory and methodological frameworks for the design and construction of special-purpose facilities. In support of this work, the Technical Committee for Standardization TC-320 “Special-Purpose Facilities” was established to advance standards and guidelines in this field.

Research Laboratory for Diagnostics of Equipment, Structures, and Facilities

The Research Laboratory for Diagnostics of Equipment, Structures, and Facilities specializes in non-destructive testing methods and technologies for reinforced concrete piles, as well as monitoring the technical condition of buildings and infrastructure.

Its team includes certified experts in the technical inspection of buildings and structures, ensuring reliable assessments and supporting safe, high-quality construction practices.

Educational and Research Laboratory for Industrial Waste Processing Technologies

The Educational and Research Laboratory for Industrial Waste Processing Technologies focuses on developing students’ knowledge and practical skills in industrial waste recycling and sustainable resource management.

The laboratory emphasizes the implementation of integrated, resource- and energy-efficient, and environmentally sustainable technologies in construction engineering,preparing future specialists to introduce innovative and eco-friendly solutions in the building industry.

Testing Center for Building Structures

The Testing Center for Building Structures conducts advanced scientific studies aimed at identifying new patterns in the behavior of structural systems under both static and dynamic loads.

The center also develops evidence-based recommendations to ensure the safe operation, durability, and reliability of buildings and infrastructure.

Center for Engineering and Expertise

The Center for Engineering and Expertise provides comprehensive inspections of buildings and structures, assesses their technical condition, and offers scientific and technical support for construction projects.

The center’s specialists develop reinforcement solutions for structural elements and conduct studies of construction processes, contributing to safe, reliable, and efficient engineering practice