Ben Ma

Dr. Ben Ma is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR). His research focuses on advancing water treatment technologies, pathogen control in water systems, and resilient infrastructure solutions using UV-based technologies. He also investigates earthquake-induced geotechnical hazards, including liquefaction, fault displacement mechanics, and multi-hazard interactions in coastal environments. His work integrates field reconnaissance, laboratory experiments, and computational modeling to address real-world challenges in environmental and geotechnical engineering.

Dr. Ma's research group explores innovative approaches to public health sanitation, water microbiome dynamics, and earthquake engineering. His recent work emphasizes improving seismic design codes through probabilistic hazard modeling and advancing understanding of anthropogenic impacts on ground failures. He has conducted field investigations in major earthquake events such as the 2023 Türkiye earthquakes and the 2018 Palu-Donggala disaster, contributing critical data to global geohazard research.

His publications reflect expertise in soil-structure interaction, tsunami loading effects, and centrifuge testing methodologies. While no specific awards are listed, his prolific output and field contributions highlight his emerging influence in geotechnical and environmental engineering disciplines.

Dr. Ma's advising and grant activities are not detailed here, but his active research group indicates ongoing mentorship of students. His lab focuses on bridging environmental microbiology with engineering solutions, particularly in water reuse systems and UV disinfection technologies.