Smart Construction, Infrastructure, and Buildings through Education, Research, and Cutting-edge Technology (SCIBER-CT)
An NSF Research Traineeship (NRT) graduate program at San Diego State University
Transform the Future of Construction with Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Advanced Technology
The SCIBER-CT program (pronounced "cyber city") at San Diego State University is a newly launched NSF-funded research traineeship (NRT) and smart infrastructure graduate program that will prepare the next generation of construction innovators. Through our interdisciplinary engineering program and emerging infrastructure technology graduate program, you'll gain the skills to revolutionize how we build safer, more sustainable, and more efficient infrastructure using artificial intelligence and robotics in construction.
Our Mission
SCIBER-CT is a smart construction education and engineering graduate training program that aims to transform construction ecosystems to be safer, more productive, efficient, sustainable, resilient, and equitable through education and research. We're addressing critical challenges in an industry that:
- Has one of the highest workplace injury and fatality rates among U.S. industries
- Faces chronic project delays and cost overruns on infrastructure projects nationwide
- Has seen declining productivity compared to other sectors over recent decades
- Continues to struggle with diversity, particularly in technical and leadership roles
By training graduate students in AI and machine learning, robotics and automation, and advanced communications and immersive technologies (ARX), we're building a program to prepare a workforce ready to lead construction's technological transformation.
What You'll Learn
Three Core Technology Areas
Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- AI-driven decision-making for construction optimization
- Trustworthy AI systems for autonomous operations
- Edge computing and distributed machine learning
- Intelligent buildings research including energy management and predictive maintenance
Robotics in Construction & Automation
- Collaborative robots (cobots) for construction sites
- Autonomous systems for inspection and monitoring
- Advanced perception and control systems for robotics in construction
- Telerobotics and remote operation
Advanced Communications & Immersive Technologies
- IoT networks for resource tracking and monitoring
- Virtual and augmented reality for project visualization
- 4D/5D modeling for schedule and cost optimization
- Real-time collaboration tools and digital twins
Five Construction Application Areas
Your coursework will apply these technologies to critical construction challenges:
- Productivity - Optimizing construction operations and automation
- Safety - Wearable technology and hazard monitoring systems
- Digital Twins - Mixed reality for infrastructure design and construction
- Efficiency - Industrialized construction using robotics
- Sustainability - Environmentally conscious construction practices
Quick Facts
SCIBER-CT combines the resources of a major research university, proven industry partnerships, and NSF funding to create an unparalleled graduate education experience. As a newly launched program, you'll have unique opportunities to shape the future of construction technology education while receiving comprehensive support for your academic and professional development.
SCIBER-CT is supported by the National Science Foundation's prestigious Research Traineeship (NRT) program, which funds innovative approaches to graduate STEM education. This funding ensures program quality, sustainability, and access to cutting-edge resources for research and professional development.
The certificate can be completed in one academic year plus summer, combining coursework in technology and construction with hands-on research and a paid internship. Based on program success, the certificate will transition to a full master's degree in Modern Construction, offering you a pathway to advanced credentials.
Every SCIBER-CT student is guaranteed placement in a paid summer internship, which is a required component of the certificate program. You'll work with leading construction firms like Clark Construction and Whiting-Turner, or technology companies like Azbil, gaining real-world experience applying AI, robotics, and advanced technologies to actual construction challenges while building your professional network.
Through our partnership with UVA's successful NRT program in Cyber-Physical Systems, you'll gain access to online courses from UVA faculty, week-long research experiences at the prestigious Link Lab, and mentorship from experts across both institutions. This collaboration brings together the best of both universities to enhance your education.
NRT Fellowships provide comprehensive financial support including full tuition coverage for all 15 certificate units, competitive academic year stipends, and funding for research supplies, conference travel, and the UVA Link Lab visit. Fellowships are available each year for eligible students.