Priyanshu Pokhrel, PhD Student
My research focuses on developing scalable solvers for high-fidelity simulations of fluid-structure interaction (FSI) using the finite element method. I am advancing a new framework, ALE-SSM (Arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian with Skeleton Structural Models), to study the interaction between fluids and solids. This framework is built entirely in-house in Julia and has the capability to run large-scale CFD and FSI simulations in high-performance computing environments. This work lies at the intersection of fluid dynamics, numerical methods, structural dynamics, and computer science, with the overarching goal of improving our ability to predict and understand how the built environment interacts with surrounding fluids.
Samvid Parajuli, PhD student
My research spans two interconnected areas of structural masonry: enhancing storm resilience through computational frameworks and experimental investigations to integrate high-strength reinforcing steel in structural masonry design. I am particularly fascinated by how cracks and stresses develop and interact within these structures, and how they can be mitigated; questions I often find myself deeply engaged with. Alongside this, I have a strong interest in structural dynamics and control. My overarching goal is to improve the resilience of masonry systems under the predicaments posed by natural hazards and to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the broader structural engineering community.
Muhammad Waleed Khan, PhD Student
My research focuses on the experimental investigation of reinforced masonry using high-strength steel reinforcing bars (HSRBs), with the goal of advancing the TMS 402/602 code provisions for the use of HSRBs in masonry design. I have performed large-scale tests on partially and fully grouted walls to evaluate the flexural, shear, and lap-splice behavior of HSRBs in masonry, while also exploring the use of fiber-reinforced grout to enhance bond performance. Finite-element modeling in ATENA-GiD is used primarily to validate and complement the experimental findings, ensuring consistency between laboratory results and numerical simulations.
Yousef Abu Amneh, PhD Student
My research focuses on the use of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) for marine energy and offshore applications. Current projects include the development of UHPC hull concepts for wave energy converters and studies on FRP-reinforced end zones in prestressed concrete components. I am also investigating the behavior of fresh UHPC materials during casting and their characterization using appropriate Bingham-type constitutive models via CFD simulations based on the ALE-SSM framework developed in Julia.
Vasileios Kotzamanis, PhD Student
My research focuses on the development of a multimode wave energy converter (MWEC) and its potential to increase power production compared to conventional point absorbers. His work also explores power take-off (PTO) systems designed to generate energy independently of the input rotational direction. Other research interests include the investigation of compliance effects in the behavior of elevated coastal houses under wave action, the use of 3D printing to model natural systems such as mangrove forests to examine their shielding effects, and the application of mass timber in tall buildings with attention to wind performance. I have also been involved in reconnaissance missions and reports for the StEER Network (NSF) with reference to extreme wind events.
Abdulrahman Salah, PhD Student (Graduated in 2025)
My PhD Thesis centered on the Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC), focusing specifically on characterizing its shear behavior under axial loads and the critical effects of scaling and fiber alignment. I conducted extensive experimental and analytical investigations using the Universal Panel Tester (UPT) to define UHPC's complex response to combined stress states. A key finding was the identification of a novel fiber alignment-related size effect alongside the classical depth size effect. I utilized these experimental insights to improve the Softened Membrane Model for UHPC (SMM-UHPC) and, ultimately, developed a one-way shear design model for UHPC beams. This new model is compatible with ACI 318 provisions, paving the way for the reliable and safe implementation of UHPC shear design in mainstream structural engineering.
MSc Students
Noran Shahin (Graduated in 2023)
My MSc thesis work focused on the development of a softened membrane model for ultra-high-performance concrete (SMM-UHPC) and the use of UPT@UH to perform UHPC shear tests.
Omar Khalid (Graduated in 2023)
My MSc thesis work focused on the experimental investigation of high-strength steel reinforcing bars (HSRBs) in structural masonry by performing lap-splice tests to determine the lap length and bond requirements. The outcomes of my experimental studies have influenced the development of new code provisions for the adoptions of HSRBs by The Masonry Society (TMS) 402/602 Standards.