Queensland Department of Primary Industries (DPI) researcher and ARC Advance Timber Hub PhD Candidate Adam Faircloth was awarded a prestigious Gottstein Fellowship in 2024 to investigate global approaches to vibration and acoustics in timber structures.

His project, “The Global Perception and Understanding of Vibration and Acoustics in Timber Structures”, explored how different regions design, test, and perceive mass timber buildings — particularly their performance in managing low-frequency vibration and sound transmission.

As part of the fellowship, Adam embarked on an ambitious study tour across 13 countries, engaging with 112 practitioners including researchers, designers, builders, manufacturers, and consultants. His findings draw on perspectives from Europe, North America, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, providing valuable insight into international best practice and opportunities for innovation in Australia’s mass timber sector. The research is of valuable use for the Hub with Project 1.1 – Innovative Long-Span Timber and Wood-Based Hybrid Floors for Vibration Performance and Acoustic Compliance and Project 2.3- Influence of CLT Manufacturing Variables on Vivration and Acoustic Performance in which Adam currently works on.

The study highlighted that while mass timber construction is gaining rapid momentum globally, challenges remain in achieving design confidence around vibration and acoustic performance. These challenges often lead to overly conservative designs, increasing material use and costs. Adam’s work identified the need to refine standards and bridge the gap between laboratory testing and real-world performance, as well as better integration of occupant comfort into design approaches.

Key outcomes of the fellowship included:

• A clearer understanding of global design standards and how they differ regionally.
• Identification of three key research priorities: developing long-span mass timber floor systems, improving understanding of material properties, and linking measured vibration data with occupant perception.
• Enhanced collaboration between researchers and industry, encouraging innovation in sustainable building design.

The findings will continue to inform Adam’s PhD research with Griffith University, focusing on improving vibration and acoustic prediction methods for mass timber floors — helping to build a more confident and resource-efficient timber construction industry in Australia.

Adam’s fellowship exemplifies the value of the Gottstein Trust’s mission: to support emerging leaders in forestry and wood products research, and to strengthen Australia’s position in sustainable building innovation.

To read Adam’s full report please click on the link, and for more information about the Gottstein Trust, visit www.gottsteintrust.org