Nabil F. Grace

Dr. Nabil F. Grace is the Senior Vice President of Research & Economic Development at Lawrence Technological University and serves as the Director of the Nabil Grace Center for Innovative Materials Research (CIMR). He previously served as Dean of the College of Engineering (2010–2024) and chaired the Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering (2001–2010). He holds a PhD in Civil Engineering from the University of Windsor and a BS from Cairo University.

• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering – Cairo University
• Master of Science in Civil Engineering – University of Windsor
• PhD in Civil Engineering – University of Windsor

Dr. Grace’s research centers on structural engineering, with a focus on innovative composite materials such as carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP) for highway bridges, defense armor, and sustainable infrastructure. His work aims to create corrosion-free, long-lasting structures with extended service life (up to 100 years), improved durability, and reduced life-cycle costs. He pioneered the first CFRP prestressed concrete highway bridge in the United States and developed design guidelines adopted by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).

His recent publications highlight trends in CFRP material behavior under extreme conditions, durability evaluation, life-cycle cost analysis, and full-scale structural testing. Research themes include fatigue, creep, relaxation, fire resistance, and nondestructive evaluation of CFRP elements in bridges. He has also explored biomedical applications of carbon fibers and advanced armor systems.

• Top Research Project “SWEET 16” Award 2020
• Best Paper Award 2018 (CICE, Paris)
• Best Paper Award 2013 (APFIS, Melbourne)
• University Distinguished Professor
• PCI-Harry H. Edwards Award 2002
• ACEC Honor Award 2002
• CERF Charles Pankow Award 1997

Dr. Grace has secured over $29 million in research funding from agencies including the National Science Foundation, U.S. Department of Transportation, U.S. Army (TARDEC, ARL), Michigan Department of Transportation, and private industry. His grants support applied research in bridge technology, military armor, and environmental durability testing. He leads a multidisciplinary research team at CIMR, mentoring students and collaborating with government and industry partners. The Nabil Grace Center for Innovative Materials Research features advanced testing facilities, including a fire chamber, environmental chamber, and structural testing lab, enabling full-scale evaluation of materials under real-world conditions.

Dr. Grace holds four U.S. patents related to bridge design and composite armor. The CIMR facility, established in 2008, continues to serve as a hub for innovation in materials science and structural engineering, with ongoing projects extending into 2026.