Research Mission
Major Goals
- Improve efficiency in earthworks construction through effective site reconnaissance, automated design and construction, autonomy, and real-time monitoring
- Ensure long-term serviceability of civil infrastructure through performance assessment and simulation/modeling
- Translate emerging technologies into standards and specifications through multi-state and federal agency collaboration
- Optimize the selection and use of earth materials through life-cycle cost modeling
Core Competencies
- In situ testing and characterization
- Compaction monitoring technologies
- Automated earthwork construction systems
- Geo-spatial and statistical analysis
- Pavement foundation layer characterization/design/modeling
- Soil stabilization (chemical, mechanical, and biological)
- Ground improvement and geo-construction systems
- Development of standards, specifications, and training programs
Accomplishments
- Participated in international research and technology deployment
- Integrating state-of-the-art technologies into specifications
- Collaborated with over 40 researchers at ISU, other universities, and consulting services, 20 industry partners, and 25 state highway agencies.
- Prepared over 40 research-experienced graduates for industry
- Published more than 100 research articles (peer-reviewed journal/conference articles, and research reports), and delivered more than 50 professional presentations on critical geo-construction topics
- Developed a national road map for developing and implementing specifications for intelligent compaction technologies in partnership with industry and state agencies
- Leveraged every $1 of industry funds with $5 of government agency funds
- Secured investments of $1 million in state-of-the-art test equipment