Patrick Borges Rodrigues (PhD ’25)
What led you to embark on a PhD in civil engineering?
I’ve always been fascinated by buildings and infrastructure, which ultimately led me to choose civil engineering. My decision to apply for a PhD at USC was driven by the university’s strong academic reputation and impactful research. While writing my MSc thesis at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF), I realized that many of the researchers whose work I admired and cited were affiliated with USC – either as faculty or students. Their research closely aligned with my own interests, and I saw USC as a place where I could thrive as a scholar.
Tell us about your area of research?
My current research focuses on developing a framework to understand the sensory needs of machine operators performing traditional demolition tasks with manned and remotely operated equipment. These insights are then used to guide the design of human-robot interfaces for teleoperated demolition robots.
We are currently testing a sensory-enhanced teleoperation interface for compact demolition robots in collaboration with construction workers. The goal is to engage 100 participants to evaluate the interface and validate our framework.
What made this project especially meaningful was the direct engagement with demolition workers over the past three years. Through fieldwork and discussions, I gained a deeper understanding of the risks and challenges they face. Knowing that my work could help improve working conditions has been a powerful source of motivation throughout my PhD journey.
What do you consider to be some of your most significant academic achievements?
One of my most meaningful achievements has been seeing how applicable my research is to real-world construction practices. After years of collaboration with construction companies and workers, it has been rewarding to receive feedback from professionals who recognize the potential of my work to improve demolition operations. Their acknowledgment of its impact on operator safety, comfort and job opportunities reinforces the value of my research beyond academia.
Where else do you apply that empathic approach to engineering?
Yes, I’ve been actively involved in several outreach and mentorship initiatives. Over the past four years, I’ve mentored 17 students from high school through graduate school. These mentorships were part of programs such as the USC Viterbi Summer High School Intensive in Next-Generation Engineering (SHINE), the Viterbi Summer Institute (VSI), the Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE), the Graduate Mentorship Program and other volunteer opportunities.
I’ve also volunteered with SoLA Robotics, an organization that empowers underserved youth in South Los Angeles through hands-on robotics education and technology training. Their mission to foster personal growth and expand STEM career pathways resonates with my commitment to equity and inclusion in engineering.
Based on what you know now, what is your best piece of advice for other students?
Believe in yourself and stay committed – your persistence will pay off. USC offers a wealth of resources to help you grow, achieve your goals, and succeed both academically and professionally.
What’s next after having received your PhD?
After graduation, I’ll begin my academic career as an Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering in the John A. Reif, Jr. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT).
My long-term goal is to use my research, teaching and service to advance construction practices and improve the safety, well-being and career opportunities available to construction workers. I hope to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world impact in the construction industry.
Published on May 12th, 2025
Last updated on May 12th, 2025
