About Dr. Karol S. Sikora
Dr. Karol S. Sikora is the CEO and co-founder of Neacemka, a Cambodia-based group focused on integrated real estate, construction development, and estate management solutions supported by research-led innovation and long-term value creation.
He is also an Associate Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Wollongong in Dubai. His work focuses on sustainable construction materials and engineered timber systems, with particular emphasis on cross-laminated timber (CLT), glulam, and nature-based composite solutions for durable, low-carbon construction.
Dr. Sikora bridges research and implementation, combining laboratory testing, structural modelling, durability assessment, and product/system development. Across Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, he has supported industry and public-sector stakeholders through consultancy and expert involvement in real-world projects, translating evidence-based research into deployable construction outcomes.
He has contributed to the advancement of mass-timber adoption and capability-building across multiple countries, including work supporting the development of CLT knowledge and pathways in Ireland. He has authored over 100 scientific publications and is frequently engaged in international collaboration and applied research initiatives.
He has held international leadership roles within COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology), contributing to cross-border research coordination in timber engineering and wood-based materials.
In recognition of his impact, Dr. Sikora received the Research & Innovation Award 2023 from the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure for a highly competitive sustainable construction research project.
He is a Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), and a Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary International. He is also the originator of the Sustainability Leadership Academy at the Institute of European Thought.
Dr. Sikora leads and supports research and development activities focused on next-generation mass-timber systems, including the development of novel cross-laminated timber solutions utilising Asian timber species, with an emphasis on practical deployment, regional supply chains, and long-term performance.