Hani G. Melhem

Hani G. Melhem is a Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at Kansas State University (K-State), where he has been a faculty member since 1991. He holds the Carl and Mary Ice Cornerstone Teaching Scholar title and was previously the Martin K. Eby Distinguished Professor in Engineering (2004–2007). Melhem earned his Ph.D. (1989), M.S. (1987) in Civil Engineering, and an M.S. in Applied Mathematics from the University of Pittsburgh, along with a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Cairo University (1981).

• Education:
  • Ph.D., Civil Engineering, University of Pittsburgh (1989)
  • M.S., Civil Engineering, University of Pittsburgh (1987)
  • M.S., Applied Mathematics, University of Pittsburgh (1987)
  • B.S., Civil Engineering, Cairo University (1981)

Melhem’s research focuses on integrating artificial intelligence and numerical modeling with structural engineering to enhance infrastructure durability and safety. Key areas include fatigue and fracture analysis, finite element modeling, structural health monitoring, and bridge design. His work has led to innovative applications of intelligent computing for damage diagnosis and strengthening concrete beams using composite materials.

Scientific contributions include over 100 publications and leadership roles in editorial boards, such as coeditor-in-chief of the ASCE Journal of Computing in Civil Engineering (2001–2007). His early research was supported by a FHWA sole-source contract ($40,000, 1990) and a National Highway Institute Grant for Research Fellowship ($20,000, 1989).

• Scientific Awards:
  • Fellow of ASCE (2009)
  • Certificate of Appreciation, U.S. Department of Transportation (1989)
  • Professorial Performance Award, K-State (2009, 2015)
  • Outstanding University and Professional Service Award (2005, 2007, 2009, 2011)
  • Robert R. and Lila L. Snell Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award (2013)

Melhem has taught 18 undergraduate and graduate courses and spearheaded the senior design capstone project since 2004. He also founded the K-State Annual Bridge Design Workshop (1993) and established the Civil Infrastructure System Lab (CISL), evolving from the Testing Lab for Civil Infrastructure (1994–2000). His service roles include leadership in ASCE committees and the Kansas Section of ASCE (Vice President 2004–2005, President 2005–2006).