Optical bound states in the continuum (BICs) represent a key concept in modern nanophotonics, allowing the realization of high-quality resonances within dielectric nanostructures. Yet, achieving nano-structural configurations that effectively suppress radiative leakage at target frequencies continues to depend on heuristic design and constrained optimization schemes. In this work, we introduce a topology optimization framework that enables the automated and systematic discovery of photonic nanostructures exhibiting quasi-BIC behaviour [1]. The framework initiates from photonic unit cells characterized by twofold degeneracies at high-symmetry points and incorporates defect-based perturbations to spectrally separate the desired state from adjacent radiative modes. The optimized geometries demonstrate pronounced transmission resonances and strong electromagnetic field confinement, achieved through an efficient exploration of the design space beyond conventional methods. This approach establishes a versatile route for precisely controlling optical responses, paving the way for advances in optical sensing, light–matter interaction engineering, and the development of compact, high-performance photonic components.