![Work Desk](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_f68602886d71455a85a9705d586b75a0~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_462,w_3000,h_1078/fill/w_980,h_352,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Work%20Desk.jpg)
Projects
Coastal resilience – risk assessment of aging levee systems in changing climates
Our levee systems are facing challenges from aging and climate change. The risk of levee failure needs to be quantified and used to assist in levee maintenance.
![Image by Justin Wilkens](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_3e446c32ed1d4ad7adc8aeb921a894aa~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_385,h_257,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Image%20by%20Justin%20Wilkens.jpg)
Seismic slope stability analysis considering soil uncertainties
This project quantifies the seismic failure of slopes considering spatial variability of soil properties. The consequence of slope failure is also estimated statistically to aid decision-making process.
![seismicSlope.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/977769_2c960262b62945558dcd089fd91689dc~mv2.png/v1/crop/x_162,y_0,w_496,h_371/fill/w_385,h_288,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/seismicSlope.png)
Development of a design methodology for geosynthetic-reinforced pavement using finite element numerical modeling
The benefits of applying geosynthetics in pavement systems are numerically estimated using a high-fidelity finite element model. The reinforcement benefits are later quantified through empirical-mechanical design code.
![Image by Natasha Miller](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_4b476c71506c3166586a38~mv2_d_3500_2333_s_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_385,h_257,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Image%20by%20Natasha%20Miller.jpg)
Quantitative assessment of impacts of extreme droughts on pavements and pipelines
In coastal bend, pavement and pipelines are subject to significant movements due to expansive clay. The recent long-lasting droughts (and heavy rain after) exacerbate the differential settlement and cause cracks and structural failure. A data-driven approach is applied to tackle this challenging engineering problem.
![Image by Diego Jimenez](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_70cc890259834535bd3df389a37c675b~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_385,h_257,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Image%20by%20Diego%20Jimenez.jpg)
Instrumentation and modeling of geosynthetic load transfer platform performance
The behavior of column-supported geosynthetic-reinforced embankment is monitored and simulated using a 3D numerical model. Based on the study, recommendations for design are made.
![field monitoring_edited.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/977769_ed1fc324387f4f12a2a092508ea1ebbf~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_358,h_288,al_c,lg_1,q_85,enc_avif,quality_auto/field%20monitoring_edited.png)
Geospatial statistical modeling for efficiency and economy in offshore geotechnical site investigations and foundation design
A probabilistic framework is developed to simulate 3D offshore subsurface ground conditions. Boulder hazards are also investigated using a novel 3D stochastic model.
![Wind Turbines on Water](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/b08a0cd155ed435e8dfd9fbef2b10a43.jpg/v1/fill/w_385,h_257,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Wind%20Turbines%20on%20Water.jpg)