PhD in Structural Engineering and Fluid-Structure-Soil Interaction Modeling
Explore numerical and computational methods to model fluid-structure-soil interactions in coastal environments. Develop multi-hazard risk and resilience models addressing coastal infrastructure safety. Join a leading-edge research group at the University of Rhode Island.
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Project Description
Project Overview
This project explores structural engineering challenges within coastal and ocean environments, focusing on fluid-structure-soil interaction modeling, multi-hazard risk assessment, and resilience modeling. The research aims to understand how environmental forces like wind, waves, and seismic hazards affect coastal residential buildings and infrastructure.
What You Will Do
You will develop computational models using CFD (e.g., OpenFOAM) and finite element methods (e.g., OpenSees) to simulate interactions between structures, fluids, and soils under various environmental loading. The work includes statistical and probabilistic analysis and programming in MATLAB, Python, or C++. Collaboration with the research group will support innovative multi-hazard analysis and economic resilience evaluations.
Expected Outcomes
The project is expected to produce validated numerical models that quantify risk and resilience of coastal infrastructure, propose retrofit and mitigation strategies, and contribute to the design of safer structures through multi-hazard resilience frameworks.
Why This Matters
Coastal communities face increasing threats from hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, and climate-related hazards. This research enhances understanding and modeling capability to improve safety, economic resilience, and disaster preparedness in vulnerable coastal regions.
Entry Requirements
How to Apply
Eligibility
Supervisor Profile
Dr. Mehrshad Amini is an Assistant Professor at the University of Rhode Island with appointments in Civil and Environmental Engineering and Ocean Engineering. He completed his PhD at Penn State in 2021 focusing on fluid-structure interaction and has postdoctoral expertise in life safety risk and economic resilience of coastal communities subject to earthquake and tsunami hazards. His work integrates computational modeling with multi-hazard risk assessment.