He has conducted extensive research on fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) materials, full-culm bamboo and the characterisation of bamboo materials. Dr. Harries received his doctorate from McGill University in the field of seismic design of high-rise structures. He is the author of over 220 peer-reviewed technical articles, is Editor of the Journal of Construction and Building Materials and FRP International, and coedited the book Nonconventional and Vernacular Construction Materials: Characterisation, Properties and Applications.