Research at the Department of Structural Engineering is primarily tied to experimental testing in well-equipped laboratories and numerical (program controlled) simulations. Our strength lies in the combination of these, while our theoretical foundation is mechanics. Research and development encompass the following disciplines and fields:

• concrete structures
• concrete technology
• biomechanics
• fracture mechanics and fatigue
• structural dynamics
• steel and light matal structures
• nanomechanics
• numerical modeling and simulations
• software development
• impact and energy absorption
• timber structures

The department is heavily involved in two Centres for Research-based Innovation (SFI):

• SIMLab, the Structural Impact Laboratory, is hosted and managed by the department.

• COIN, the Concrete Innovation Centre, is managed be through SINTEF, but with strong participation from the department.

• Norlight - Crashworthiness of Light-Weight Automotive Structures
• RESIA – Residual Stress Simulation for Integrity Assessment
• HISC – Hydro Induced Stress Cracking

The department participates in NTNUs Institutional Strategic Program (ISP) for Sustainable Infrastructure.