Professor Robert Y. Liang at the University of Akron is recruiting graduate students (preferably at the Ph.D. level) to conduct research in the following areas:
Deep foundations involving lateral soil-structure interaction of drilled shafts in rock and intermediate geo-materials. Emphasis of research is placed on the development of p-y curves, interpretation method for pressuremeter test, and design method for bridges supported by a group of drilled shafts.
Development of risk management techniques for geohazards, such as landslide, rockfalls, abandoned underground mine openings, and shoreline erosions. The emphasis of research is placed on the development of the risk assessment tools, geohazards inventory database and integration with GIS platform, and systematic approach for developing geohazard mitigation techniques.
Development of design methods for using the stub piers to stabilize an unstable slope. This research would entail the use of 3-D finite element methods (e.g., ABAQUS finite element code) and field testing and monitoring results to develop pertinent design method, preferably in the framework of method of slice, limit equilibrium slope stability analysis technique.
Development of reliability based analysis of deep foundations. This research would continue to exam current test data and employ reliability based theory to develop LRFD design method for deep foundations, including driven piles and drilled shafts.
Mechanics based approach to understand the moisture induced damage in hot mix asphalt concrete mixes
Mechanics based understanding of polishing and friction behavior of hot mix asphalt concrete mix in highway pavement applications.
Continuing study of efficient design for a flexible pavement system that entails efficient drainage capability
The students selected will be provided with full tuition fellowship and additional stipends. The stipends will commensurate with student’s research performance and ability at the University of Akron while pursuing his/her degree goals. These positions will remain open and the successful candidate can begin his/her study in the summer or fall semester of 2008. The interested students should contact Professor Robert Liang by the e-mail below. Please note that our graduate school does require a minimum TOEFL 550 or equivalent. We also like to have some GRE score for evaluation purpose.