FernandaLeite

Bio
Fernanda Leite is the interim vice president for research and Joe J. King Professor in Civil Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin. An expert in building information modeling (BIM), construction engineering and resilient systems engineering, her research explores the integration of 3D modeling and artificial intelligence (AI) to create sustainable and adaptable infrastructure.

As associate dean for research in the Cockrell School of Engineering, Leite helped launch major interdisciplinary initiatives in semiconductors, quantum science, robotics and AI. She has also led cross-campus efforts, including the Planet Texas 2050 grand challenge. Leite holds a Ph.D. from Carnegie Mellon University and is a licensed professional engineer. She brings a collaborative, forward-looking approach to research leadership – advancing UT Austin’s mission to become the world’s highest-impact public research university.

Educational Qualifications
Ph.D., Carnegie Mellon University, 2009
M.S., Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 2005
B.S., Federal University of Ceara, 2002

Select Awards & Honors

• Daniel W. Halpin Award – ASCE (2019) 
• IAspire Leadership Academy fellow (2019)
• Ervin S. Perry Student Appreciation Award – Fariborz Maseeh Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering (2018) 
• Dean’s Award for Outstanding Engineering Teaching by an Assistant Professor – The University of Texas at Austin (2013-14) 
• Outstanding Early Career Researcher Award – FIATECH (2013) 

Related Websites
Leite Research Group
Center for Transportation Research

Select Publications