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Laing O'Rourke Centre for Construction Engineering and Technology

 
CEM Dissertation Conference 2020

The annual Construction Engineering Master’s (CEM) dissertation conference is one of the highlights of the CEM programme – offering guests a unique opportunity to hear emerging industry leaders presenting evidence-based research to advance and support transformation in the construction and infrastructure development sector.

Ordinarily we would be hosting our students and their guests at the University of Cambridge. However, this year, in light of the covid-19 pandemic, we are delighted to deliver the conference online - offering the same insightful and thought-provoking day from the comfort of homes and/or offices across the globe.

Students on this programme are experienced industry professionals representing a range of professions and company types, who have been identified as emerging leaders in the business of construction. The conference allows each student to present findings from their dissertation research and answer questions from the audience. CEM dissertations cover a wide range of topics and students have used a variety of research methods to explore issues that they have identified in the industry.

This year’s dissertation topics include:

  • automation,
  • collaboration,
  • design for manufacture and assembly (DfMA),
  • design,
  • digitalisation,
  • equality,
  • leadership,
  • management,
  • procurement,
  • productivity,
  • risk management,
  • scheduling,
  • skills, and
  • sustainability.

By applying academic rigour to their existing industry experience and expertise, CEM students are able to produce evidence-based research that addresses key issues within the industry. Directly aligned to the needs and realities of the industry, this research can form the basis for real, practical change.

For the past two years these students have balanced work and studies, developing their technical, research and managerial skills to become agents of change who are inspired and equipped to play a transformative role in the sector. For further information about the Construction Engineering Master’s degree, visit the website

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