Jelke Dijkstra

Jelke Dijkstra is an assistant professor at Chalmers University of Technology, working within the Department of Geology and Geotechnology's Geotechnics research group. His academic career focuses on experimental approaches to geomechanics, with particular emphasis on understanding soil behavior through innovative testing methodologies.

Dr. Dijkstra's research interests center on experimental geomechanics, especially in capturing and understanding fundamental properties of granular materials using unconventional methods. He has developed new experimental techniques for handling and probing (loose) soils and is an expert in designing and conducting non-standard material testing and physical model experiments, including geotechnical centrifuge tests. His work extensively utilizes 2D imaging techniques for deformation and stress analyses, and he has pioneered the use of geo-electrical techniques to track significant changes in soil samples. His research bridges fundamental soil mechanics with practical engineering applications.

Analysis of his recent publications (2024-2025) reveals a strong focus on critical geotechnical challenges, particularly related to sensitive clays, railway infrastructure, and soil-structure interaction. His work spans multiple scales from nanometric clay analysis to full-scale infrastructure modeling. Key themes include quick clay genesis, pile foundation behavior in soft soils, concrete corrosion mechanisms, and advanced monitoring techniques for infrastructure performance. His research demonstrates a consistent interdisciplinary approach combining experimental methods with numerical modeling.

Dr. Dijkstra actively participates in numerous collaborative research projects funded by various organizations including Formas, Vetenskapsrådet (VR), Trafikverket, and EU programs. His work addresses critical infrastructure challenges related to climate change adaptation, sustainable transportation systems, and improved geotechnical design methodologies for soft soil conditions.