Philippe Block is a Belgian professor, structural engineer, and architect at ETH Zurich, where he co-directs the Block Research Group (BRG) and serves as the Head of the Institute of Technology in Architecture (ITA). His pioneering research is centered on 'strength through geometry,' focusing on the design of compression-only shell and vaulted structures using masonry and unreinforced concrete. Block developed Thrust Network Analysis during his PhD at MIT and is a leading proponent of sustainable, material-efficient construction methods. Key projects developed under his direction include the Armadillo Vault, the NEST HiLo Unit, and the 3D-concrete-printed masonry bridge Striatus. He also serves as the Director of the Swiss NCCR on Digital Fabrication.