Mostafa Akbari, PhD.

Assistant Professor of Architecture

Mostafa Akbari is a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Architecture at Tulane University, where he also serves as the Director of the Cellular Architectures Lab. He is an accomplished architect, designer, and educator whose work integrates Computational Design, Digital Fabrication, Materials Science, and Structural Design. His approach bridges multiple disciplines, media, and scales, ranging from the micro to the macro. His primary objective is to enhance the synergy between design and science by incorporating principles inspired and engineered by nature into the development of innovative design technologies.

His research interests are centered on structural form finding and material computation, with a particular focus on utilizing three dimensional graphic statics
for the optimization of complex structural morphologies. He has pioneered a novel technique within the domain of 3D graphic statics for the design of Shell-
based Cellular (Shellular) Funicular Structures. His research has been published in esteemed international journals, including Advanced Functional Materials, Advanced Materials, Structures, and Materials and Design. He has also presented his findings at prominent conferences such as ACADIA, IASS, and ACM-SCF.

Mostafa has previously held academic positions at the University of Pennsylvania
and Shahid Beheshti University. His professional experience includes roles in various firms across the United States and Iran, including Gensler, and he has also worked as a self-employed architect. His designs and research have been internationally recognized, earning accolades such as the A’ Design Award.