DrBiyanka Ekanayake

Since my appointment as Lecturer in 2023, I have built a distinctive academic profile at the intersection of artificial intelligence, construction and property. My work creates impact by translating emerging technologies into curriculum innovation, practical industry tools and institutional capability. It addresses three connected challenges: improving housing delivery, strengthening building quality and preparing students and professionals to use AI responsibly. This coherent focus has generated measurable educational outcomes, competitive funding, industry adoption, external recognition and growing national and international partnerships.

My teaching impact is centred on leadership of Australia’s first Property Technology sub-major. I have redesigned its subjects around authentic industry problems, experiential learning and responsible use of generative AI. My curriculum innovations have strengthened professional relevance, student engagement and learning outcomes. Their broader significance is demonstrated by the 2025 UTS Vice-Chancellor’s Early Career Teaching Award, two Faculty Teaching and Learning Awards, invitations to present at UTS teaching forums.

I have established a coherent research program addressing building defects, property practice and housing construction monitoring. Across these areas, my research focuses on translating technical advances into approaches that are understandable, useful and accountable to industry stakeholders. This has generated scholarly impact through publications and citations, while also creating pathways towards practical tools, professional guidance and further research translation. My work has attracted funding, supported multidisciplinary collaboration and strengthened engagement with government, professional bodies and industry.

A central feature of my impact is the integration of research and teaching. My research informs curriculum design, learning activities and assessment, allowing students to engage with contemporary developments and unresolved professional challenges. Teaching, in turn, provides a setting for examining how emerging technologies can be communicated, evaluated and used responsibly. This reciprocal relationship has enabled my work to influence student learning, academic practice and professional capability rather than remaining confined to a single area of academic activity.

My institutional impact is demonstrated through leadership in responsible GenAI adoption. I have supported colleagues and academic leaders to respond to the opportunities and risks created by widespread AI use through practical guidance, professional development, peer consultation and assessment redesign. This work has contributed to a more coordinated approach to AI across disciplines and has informed broader Faculty and university discussions about curriculum, academic integrity and future professional capability.

Beyond UTS, my work contributes to disciplinary and professional conversations about the implications of AI for construction and property. Through collaborations, invited contributions, scholarly service and industry engagement, I have helped connect academic research with the needs of educators, practitioners, professional organisations and public-sector stakeholders. I am also building future capability through doctoral supervision and collaborative research development.