Dr Robert Crawford has broad research expertise and interest in the built environment, sustainability, life cycle assessment and renewable energy. His research focuses on building environmental assessment, with a particular emphasis on sustainable resource use, the environmentally appropriate selection of materials and sustainable building design and feasibility. This work has involved improving life cycle assessment methodologies; performing extensive embodied energy assessments of buildings, their components and renewable energy systems; and validation of embodied energy methodologies. He is an expert in modelling indirect (embodied) environmental impacts.

Robert is a Lecturer in the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning, teaching in the areas of life cycle assessment, supply chain management and prefabrication in construction. He is also a member of the Executive Committee of the Melbourne Energy Institute.

The contribution of Robert’s work to the fields of construction and environmental assessment has been demonstrated and acknowledged by various awards. He has also acted as a researcher, consultant and adviser to several State Government departments, research and professional organisations.

Robert's first book - Life Cycle Assessment in the Built Environment - was published in early 2011.