Engineering expert elected chair of Exeter RIBA branch

Dr Maria Rosaria Marsico, a Senior Lecturer in Structural Engineering, accepted the prestigious role at the most recent RIBA Exeter branch Annual General Meeting.

Dr Marsico, who carries out ground-breaking research in earthquake engineering and structural dynamics, will carry out the role for a period of two years.

The Exeter RIBA branch covers a large section of the central Devon area, and represents around 250 members. The organisation works with partners and companies to champion the need for better architecture across the local area, as well as promote closer relationships between the education and construction sectors.

Speaking about her appointment, Dr Marsico said: “It is a privilege for me to be elected chair of the RIBA Exeter branch and I am very proud of being part of such vibrant architecture community.

“Being an architect is both a mission and it is a passion. I am looking forward to not only helping to increase the visibility and understanding of the Exeter branch in the local community, but also fulfilling our potential to influence society, the way we live, and institutions in both the private and public sectors.”

Dr Marsico is currently part of the University of Exeter’s College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences, having previously worked at the University of California and the Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research Center, both in the United States of America.