From a young age, I was deeply passionate about civil engineering and construction, which fueled my drive to graduate first in my class during my undergraduate studies. This passion led me to work as a supervising engineer on one of the top construction projects in my home country while pursuing my master’s degree in geotechnical engineering. This dual focus provided me with a robust blend of theoretical knowledge, time management, teamwork, and hands-on experience, essential for addressing complex engineering challenges.
Currently, my research at the University of Cincinnati leverages machine learning and artificial intelligence to solve geotechnical problems. I am enthusiastic about this work because of its vast applicability and potential to advance the field. I am committed to continuous learning and constantly seek innovative solutions, believing that an open mind and a dedication to improvement are crucial for delivering the best engineering solutions.
Education
Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering (Expected May 2025)
University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
August 2021 - Present
- Current Research: Non-Destructive Roller-Integrated Acoustic Wave Detection Technique for Continuous Subgrade Soil Compaction Evaluation
- Completed Research: Use of Machine Learning Methods to Obtain a Reliable Predictive Model for Resilient Modulus of Subgrade Soil
Advisor: Dr. Sara Khoshnevisan
M.Sc. in Civil Engineering (Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering)
University of Baghdad, Iraq
July 2014
- Thesis: Experimental Study on Straight-Shaft and Under-Reamed Piles Embedded in High Expansive Soil
B.Sc. in Civil Engineering
Al-Mustansiriyah University, Iraq
June 2011
- Graduation Research: Effect of Locally Plastic Waste Material and Polypropylene Fibers on Punching Shear Strength in Flat Plate Slabs
- Achievement: First in Class of 122 Students
Honors
o Full Tuition and Research Stipend, University of Cincinnati (August 2021 - Present)
o Graduate Incentive Award, University of Cincinnati (August 2021 - Present)
o First in Class Award (Awarded to the top GPA student among 122 students), Al-Mustansiriyah University, 2008-2011
Research Experience
Research Assistant
University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
August 2022 - Present
o Conducting reliability-based analysis for diverse geotechnical issues including foundation design, liquefaction risks, and slope stability.
o Developing geotechnical models using advanced machine learning algorithms.
o Utilizing innovative non-destructive evaluation methods for comprehensive soil assessment.
Presenting our research on applying machine learning to predict soil resilient modulus at the 110th Purdue Road School Transportation Conference and Expo
Teaching Experience
Teaching Assistant, Slope Stability Class
University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
Spring 2022 - Spring 2024
o Instructed the use of GEO-SLOPE software for numerical modeling.
o Graded homework assignments and quizzes.
Teaching Assistant, Soil Mechanics Laboratory
University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
Fall 2021 - Spring 2022
o Assisted with soil test preparation and illustration.
o Graded homework and reports.
Conducting a lecture on the hydrometer test as a teaching assistant for the soil mechanics laboratory, under the guidance of Dr. Mark Bowers.
Field Experience
Geotechnical Engineer
Baghdad Mall Project, Iraq
October 2011 - November 2018
o Supervising deep excavation with anchored sheet pile installation
o Casting for drilled shafts with a diameter of 1.5m and a depth of 35m.
o Soil improvement using cement jet piling.
o Assessment of differential settlement for a ten-story parking building
o Proposed cement grouting injection under the raft foundation to stop excessive settlement.
At the peak of the first high-rise building in my home country, proud to contribute to its construction.
Interviewed by a local TV channel on the project's progress
Static pile testing site with fellow supervising engineers
LEADERSHIP
CHAIR, AI APPLICATIONS PAPER REVIEW SESSION
GEOTECHNICAL FRONTIERS 2025 CONFERENCE
OVERSAW THE REVIEW PROCESS FOR ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) AND MACHINE LEARNING (ML) PAPERS, ASSIGNED
REVIEWERS, AND RESOLVED CONFLICTS TO ENSURE RIGOROUS EVALUATION
PROJECT COORDINATOR
BAGHDAD MALL PROJECT, IRAQ, JUNE 2014- JUNE 2017
LED A MULTIDISCIPLINARY TEAM, MANAGED DAILY OPERATIONS, AND COORDINATED EFFORTS ACROSS ARCHITECTURAL, MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL, AND CIVIL ENGINEERING DIVISIONS TO ACHIEVE PROJECT GOALS.
Professional Certificates
EIT Certificate - Kentucky Board of Engineers & Land Surveyors