Profile
Dr. Jack Barton is an urban geospatial research expert with over 25 years of experience spanning academia, industry and government sectors. Currently working as Adjunct Professor at Far Eastern University and managing his own consultancy, he specializes in digital twin development, computer aided urban design and spatial decision support systems. His expertise bridges cutting-edge research with practical applications, most notably through his work as Digital Design Director at the startup Voxelmates.com.au, testing the Michibiki satellite early warning system and leadership in international organizations and scientific committees.
Previously, Jack has held key positions at GRID UNSW, AURIN, City Futures Research Centre and SGS Economics and Planning, where he developed cross-disciplinary approaches to urban challenges. His PhD in Architecture (2008) focused on 3D Spatial Decision Support Systems for high-rise public housing management. His portfolio includes high-profile projects for the 15th Pan-Asian Games Doha, City of Sydney and the award-winning Barangaroo competition entry, demonstrating his ability to deliver innovative geospatial solutions across diverse contexts.
Contribution
At FEU, Jack lectures on community-driven Architecture and Urban Design, Sustainable Housing, Human Settlement and Thesis Research Writing. His courses integrate practical applications of digital design methods with sustainable design principles.
Jack has contributed to the program through specialized workshops on 3D urban modeling and Geographic Information Systems. As keynote speaker at the 2nd Sustainability Initiatives Malaysia Philippines Indonesia (SIMPI) conference in Manila, he has helped strengthen FEU’s regional academic connections.
Experience with FEU
Jack was drawn to FEU by the opportunity to collaborate with students on community-focused architectural solutions that address regional urban challenges. His approach to teaching incorporates both theoretical frameworks and practical digital visualization tools that students can apply immediately in their design work.
Jack negotiated a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between FEU, Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts and UNSW Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture.
His proudest moment with the Tamaraws was convening an urban modeling workshop for 30 architecture students, using open-source tools and data to create accessible solutions for community planning challenges.
Jack’s most memorable engagement has been witnessing students successfully apply digital visualization techniques in community-based projects, translating complex spatial concepts into designs that address the real social and environmental needs in Manila’s urban context.
