Deok-Oh Woo

Dr. Woo earned his Ph.D. in Architecture from the University of Michigan, specializing in building technology. He also holds a Bachelor of Architecture and a Master of Science in Architectural Engineering from Yonsei University in the Republic of Korea. His research centers on performance-based building design, mechanical systems in buildings, and building automation systems. Currently, his work focuses on three areas:

1. Occupant-centric controls (OCC): optimizing building operations without compromising comfort,
2. UVC irradiation technologies: disinfecting air handling units to improve indoor air quality and energy efficiency,
3. Neural mechanisms of biophilic design in architecture: developing indices to link the built environment with human health.

Dr. Woo’s expertise has led to several award-winning projects. His OCC-based HVAC operations project, developed using multi-modal infrared array sensing technology, was supported by the Engineering Society of Detroit (ESD) through the E-Challenge 5 competition. His research on UVC irradiation at Ford Field in Detroit earned 2nd prize in the Innovative Project Award from the West Michigan Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council.

In addition to research, Dr. Woo has served as a building technology consultant on multiple design-build projects with architects committed to sustainable, user-sensitive, and budget-conscious design. These collaborations have resulted in the successful completion of five buildings across Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Mongolia, extending the impact of his expertise to diverse cultural and climatic contexts.

Looking ahead, he envisions establishing an Affordable Building Technology Lab to advance passive design strategies for cost-effective, sustainable construction that supports healthier, more resilient communities.

Research interests: 

• Building technology
• Affordable buildings
• Human comfort
• Neural mechanism
• Building control systems