Professor Kolay’s research focuses on the stabilization of soft and expansive soils using various chemical stabilizers, addressing critical challenges in soil performance and durability. His work includes extensive characterization of Pulverized Fuel Ash (PFA) from coal-based thermal power plants, exploring its potential in sustainable geotechnical applications. Professor Kolay also conducts leaching studies and investigates the dry separation of cenospheres to enhance material recovery. His interests extend to the thermal and electrical properties of soils, as well as the characterization of Recycled Concrete Aggregate (RCA) for versatile applications. A significant part of his research addresses the resilient modulus, long-term durability, and cyclic behavior of RCA and stabilized soils. Additionally, Professor Kolay studies the liquefaction potential of local Illinois soils, contributing valuable insights into soil behavior under seismic and cyclic loading conditions.

Professor Puri’s research interests span a wide range of topics within geotechnical engineering, with a focus on soil dynamics and machine foundations. His work includes the design of foundations to resist seismic loads and the study of soil liquefaction, alongside efforts to determine dynamic soil properties essential for resilient infrastructure. He is also dedicated to environmental aspects of geotechnics, including waste disposal, the utilization of coal preparation and combustion by-products, and the design of clay liners. Additionally, Professor Puri explores innovative soil improvement techniques, particularly through the use of geogrids, to enhance stability and performance.

Dr. Tiwari’s research is dedicated to pioneering interdisciplinary approaches that are essential to the future of sustainable and resilient infrastructure. His work focuses on developing innovative strategies to improve soil and ground conditions through the use of natural substances and engineered composites, enhancing infrastructure performance while minimizing environmental impact. By optimizing the strengths of these materials, Dr. Tiwari’s research aims to create infrastructure solutions that are both efficient and ecologically responsible. In addition, Dr. Tiwari is advancing an AI-driven, twin IoT-enabled framework for continuous monitoring of geotechnical infrastructure. This state-of-the-art system is set to transform predictive performance and risk assessment by offering real-time insights and enabling data-driven decisions that safeguard the integrity and durability of critical infrastructure.

Kavin is an M.S. student conducting his thesis research in the Geotechnical Engineering decision. His work focuses on Soil stabilization and ground improvement.

Sudarshan is an M.S. student conducting his thesis research in the Geotechnical Engineering decision. His work focuses on Soil stabilization using Geopolymerization.

Suvechha is an M.S. student conducting her thesis research in the Geo-CARE Lab. Her work focuses on exploring the potential of biopolymers to enhance soil properties, aiming to develop soil as a printable material for use in 3D printing applications.

Mukul is an M.S. student conducting his thesis research in the Geotechnical Engineering decision. His work focuses on Soil stabilization and ground improvement.

Subin is an M.S. student in the Geo-CARE Lab, where his research focuses on utilizing biopolymers to control the behavior of expansive soils under climate change conditions, such as freezing, thawing, and flooding. His goal is to enhance soil durability and resilience against climate-induced challenges.