Paul Fanning

Professor Paul Fanning is a Full Professor at University College Dublin (UCD), holding dual roles as UCD International Dean for China and Provost of UCD’s three joint international colleges in China: Beijing-Dublin International College (BDIC), Chang’an Dublin International College of Transportation (CDIC), and Guangzhou-Dublin International College of Life Sciences & Technology (GDIC). He previously served as UCD Deputy Vice President for Global Engagement (2017–2019), overseeing global academic strategies and governance. As a Chartered Engineer and Fellow of the Institution of Engineers of Ireland, Fanning’s expertise spans structural engineering, with a focus on masonry arch bridges, structural health monitoring, and vibration serviceability. His research integrates advanced numerical modeling, field testing, and material science to address challenges in infrastructure sustainability and safety.

Education: B.E. in Civil Engineering from UCD, PhD in Structural Engineering from the University of Surrey (UK). Post-PhD, he worked as a consultant engineer before returning to UCD in 1996. His academic leadership roles include Research Group Director, Head of Teaching & Learning, and Deputy Vice-Principal for Internationalization in the College of Engineering and Architecture.

Research interests center on structural assessment techniques, including nonlinear finite element modeling of masonry arches, vibration response analysis of buildings and bridges, and the impact of non-structural elements on dynamic performance. He has led projects funded by the Irish government, including the 2017–2018 International Mobility Programme.

Key achievements include pioneering methodologies for masonry arch bridge assessment and advancing understanding of pedestrian-induced vibrations in footbridges. His work on composite timber beams with welded-through dowels has redefined sustainable construction practices. Awards include Chartered Engineer status and Fellowship from the Institution of Engineers of Ireland.

UCD’s joint colleges under his provostship exemplify international academic collaboration, blending Irish and Chinese educational frameworks. His grants and professional activities reflect a commitment to globalizing engineering education and infrastructure research.