Championing a Sustainable Future: Jack Adebisi's Innovative Approach to Building Retrofits

The race to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 demands innovative solutions, especially in the realm of building energy consumption. Here at TMU, Jack Adebisi, a rising star and IBET Fellow, is making significant strides with his research on building energy models. But Jack's vision goes beyond technical specifications; he's driven by building a more sustainable future that's equitable and inclusive for all.

Hailing from Nigeria, Jack's early inspiration came from his mother, a pioneering female engineer. This influence fueled his passion for science and engineering, leading him to a PhD in Building Science at TMU. Witnessing the scarcity of Black researchers on the global stage, Jack recognizes the value of diverse perspectives in tackling complex challenges.

Jack's research tackles a critical hurdle in achieving net-zero goals: retrofitting the HVAC systems in existing buildings to improve energy efficiency and decarbonizes buildings. Current “building archetypes”, or building energy model samples, often lack granularity, making it difficult to predict the exact impact of upgrades. This is where Jack's innovation comes in. He's developing a system that uses detailed and varied building archetypes to categorize Toronto structures. These archetypes consider factors like size, age, function, and HVAC systems, allowing for more precise energy models compared to existing, broader categories.

The IBET Fellowship has been instrumental in supporting Jack's journey beyond financial backing. It has connected him with a network of scholars, including a valuable mentor who offered guidance on navigating his academic and professional future. The fellowship's commitment to inclusivity has fostered a supportive environment, crucial for navigating the demanding path of a PhD student, especially for those from underrepresented backgrounds. This sense of community is a vital aspect of the IBET program.

"It's been a pleasure to have Jack join my team," says Dr. Jenn McArthur, Adebisi’s PhD advisor. "In just eight months, he has been able to make remarkable progress on his research, which will contribute to a scalable and highly impactful urban energy modelling platform supporting decarbonization across Canada."

Jack's innovative approach offers several advantages:

• Improved Model Accuracy: These granular models will enable more accurate predictions of energy savings from potential retrofits.
• Cost-Effectiveness: By targeting specific building types, the system can identify the most cost-effective retrofits for each scenario, minimizing disruption to occupants.
• Privacy Concerns Addressed: The digital approach eliminates the need for in-person building assessments, respecting residents' privacy concerns about energy consumption data.

Jack works alongside colleagues like Dana Al Jadaa, who focuses on building envelopes. By combining their research, they can suggest optimal retrofit combinations for various building archetypes. The team is also committed to ensuring their solutions are accessible to all communities, particularly those often left behind in sustainability initiatives.

Motivated by his own experience, Jack hopes to inspire future generations of STEM students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, by demonstrating that a PhD path is achievable.

"PhDs are hard," Jack acknowledges, "but having a supportive community makes a difference." He actively seeks out resources and events for graduate students, and participates in activities within the broader Toronto community, highlighting the importance of intentionality and self-expression.

Jack Adebisi's story exemplifies the transformative power of the IBET Fellowship. His research has the potential to revolutionize Canada's approach to sustainable urban development, paving the way for a greener and more equitable future. Jack's dedication extends beyond technical innovation; he is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within academia and building a more sustainable world for all.

Inspired by Jack Adebisi’s story and the transformative power of the IBET Fellowship? The next round of fellowship applications is now open! Join a network of scholars tackling complex challenges and building a more sustainable future. The IBET Fellowship provides financial support, mentorship, and a supportive community for PhD students in engineering and computer science.

Deadline to apply: Friday, June 28th, 2024