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Hesham El Naggar, M.E.Sc., Ph.D., P.Eng., FASCE, FEIC

Associate Dean –Research, Faculty of Engineering & Research Director, Geotechnical Research Centre, Western University

Over the past 30 years, the name Hesham El Naggar has become internationally synonymous with excellence in innovation in geotechnical engineering.

Considered a leading authority on soil dynamics, machine vibrations and foundations, and earthquake engineering, Dr. El Naggar has established his standing through development of non-linear computer modelling and carefully designed and executed experimental modeling and full-scale testing. His practical and pragmatic approach to his research has allowed his findings to be successfully transferred to industry, as well as being incorporated into national design guidelines and international codes.

Dr. El Naggar was the lead developer and co-author of a computer program called DYNA6, used to calculate and analyze the response and design of foundations subjected to different types of dynamic loading. The software has since been adopted by more than 200 organizations worldwide and is becoming the standard tool in Canada for designing foundations to resist dynamic loads resulting from earthquake and machine vibrations. He also developed an approach to predict the bearing capacity of piles using the Statnamic load test–a faster and more economical test for assessing the load carrying capacity of deep foundations than that used previously.

As an avid advocate for collaborative partnerships that advance engineering knowledge and practice, Dr. El Naggar helped Western University secure more than $2.3 million in Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council Engage Funds to further collaborate with industry. His commitment to his field has also led him to serve as a consultant on a variety of challenging, high-profile projects in Canada and abroad, including the design of the Synchrotron in Saskatoon, the Dupont facility in Kingston, and petrochemical and cement plants throughout North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

Having published more than 350 technical papers in his field, Dr. El Naggar is keen on sharing his knowledge and experiences with others and has taught more than 100 short courses on the design of foundations under dynamic loads to practising engineers in North America.