Research Leadership Team
The RIT GeoMaterials & Multi-Physics Research Group integrates experimental characterization and advanced computational modeling to investigate the thermo–hydro–mechanical behavior and damage of geomaterials and concrete under extreme environmental and loading conditions.
Dr. Toan Duc Cao
Principal Investigator | GeoMaterials & Multi-Physics Lab
Research focuses on coupled thermo–hydro–mechanical (THM) processes and multi-physics behavior of geomaterials and concrete under extreme environmental and loading conditions.
Applications include resilient infrastructure, nuclear materials, and climate-affected geosystems.
Dr. Christian Wokem
Lead Researcher, Geotechnical applications
Specializing in finite element modeling (ABAQUS, ANSYS) for predicting the durability and damage mechanisms of geomaterials under extreme environmental conditions.
Applications include structural performance prediction and durability assessment of infrastructure materials.
Dr. Amanda Bao
Lead Researcher, Structural Materials & Infrastructure Systems
Dr. Amanda Bao develops advanced finite element and numerical modeling approaches for the analysis and design of steel and composite infrastructure systems, with a focus on structural resilience and performance under extreme loading conditions. In addition, she promotes experiential learning and applied engineering innovation
Our Research Students
PhD Students (TBA)
MS Students (TBA)
Undergraduate Students
Katherine Uyaguari
Kselektra Shimbilko
Peter Graham
Research Assistant
Geotechnical and concrete materials testing with emphasis on dynamic elastic properties, Poisson’s ratio determination, and thermal-mechanical damage evaluation.
Research Assistant
Geotechnical and concrete materials testing with emphasis on experimental procedures, damage assessment, and interpretation of dynamic material properties.
Geotechnical and concrete materials testing with emphasis on non-destructive evaluation methods, dynamic elastic properties, and Poisson’s ratio characterization.
Research Assistant
Works on geotechnical projects involving modeling and simulation of slope stability and retaining wall systems using Geo5.
Co-op Research Student
Past Undergraduate Research Students
Expertise & Technical Proficiency
The Group integrates geotechnical engineering and concrete materials within a unified multi-physics framework to predict infrastructure performance in complex real-world conditions.
THM Processes
Finite Element Modeling (FEM)
Cementitious Material Durability
Infrastructure Resilience
Multi-physics Analysis
Seismic & Thermal Effects
Climate Adaptation Modeling
Concrete Damage Mechanics
PHM Methodologies
Experimental Characterization
Hydraulic Loading Analysis
Advanced Numerical Methods