Larger projects requiring further studies tie into research carried out in Building Science Research Group within the Myers-Lawson School of Construction at Virginia Tech. This research group investigates the various aspects building performance utilizing methods of numerical modeling, data management, and applied computer sciences in the civil engineering and architectural domains. Our projects include experimental and numerical performance modeling as well as software design of expert systems.

Some of the research questions that we try to address are:

• How can we provide an integrated approach for solving multiple performance problems, rather than creating new issues when focusing our design on individual performance mandates in a limited context?
• How can we provide smart software systems for practical work?
• Is it possible and does it make sense to merge multiple (all?) building simulation tools into a single Building Information Model (BIM), or how can we improve interaction among different simulation models?
• How can we improve data aquisition for solving problems with simulation models?
• How can we use and develop educational software tools for the building science domain to provide the best pedagocical means for our students?
• How can we encourage other teachers to integrate technology into their teaching, while maintaining a critical and thoughtful attitude towards educational media?