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Research Approach

My research approach is focused on the development and understanding, laboratory and field validation, and engineering application of innovative concepts in the area of smart infrastructural engineering systems subjected to aging deterioration and multiple hazards. Due to their broad and interdisciplinary nature, these concepts are researched in close collaboration with a variety of subject matter experts in electrical and mechanical engineering, material engineering and science, and computer science and engineering. Both numerical simulations and experimental studies are emphasized in various phases of development and validation. Student and scholarly exchanges with foreign universities are encouraged in my research group to enrich the learning environment.

Research Philosophy

Today, civil infrastructure engineering research is ever more fruitful through collaborations with other disciplines such as electrical and mechanical engineering, chemistry, computer and material sciences. In the past 20 years, I have strived for a balance of basic and applied research in the area of smart infrastructural engineering systems, promoting scientific discovery while meeting societal needs in the transportation arena. The Ph.D. students in my group are encouraged to identify research topics within the scope of funded projects, carry out research tasks both individually and collaboratively, and publish research results in authoritative journals. They receive individual supervision and training but grow with peers in a team environment.

Research Interests

Infrastructure Preservation and Resilience

  • robotic platform mechanics
  • nondestructive evaluation as inspection tools
  • risk-based system assessment with artificial intelligence

Structural Health Monitoring

  • sensors and sensing systems
  • signal processing and data analysis
  • damage detection and system identification
  • structural condition assessment

Structural Materials and Mechanics

  • interface behavior and deterioration of composite systems
  • fatigue and fracture, forensic investigation

Structural Control and Earthquake Engineering

  • adaptive passive and semi-active systems
  • seismic retrofit and design with new materials

Multi-Hazard Assessment and Mitigation

  • post-earthquake and hurricane reconnaissance
  • mitigation strategy