Karim Sabra

Dr. Karim Sabra is a Professor at the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, specializing in Acoustics and Dynamics. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan (2003) and joined Georgia Tech in 2007 as an Assistant Professor. His research integrates theoretical and experimental approaches to study wave propagation in diverse fields including structural health monitoring, biomechanics, and ocean acoustics. Key areas of focus include passive imaging techniques using ambient noise and diffuse wave fields, with applications in non-invasive monitoring of mechanical systems and seismoacoustic environments.

Education:

• Ph.D., University of Michigan, 2003
• M.S., University of Michigan, 2000
• M.Sc., École Nationale Supérieure de Techniques Avancées (France), 2000

Research Interests: Dr. Sabra’s work spans acoustics, structural health monitoring, biomechanical systems evaluation, underwater acoustics, and geophysics. Recent projects include developing passive elastography techniques for soft tissues using physiological vibrations and exploring ambient noise-based tomography for ocean environments. His interdisciplinary approach bridges multi-scale engineering challenges with multi-wave tools (acoustical, electrical, optical).

Publications: His work focuses on advanced acoustic technologies, including underwater communication systems, passive acoustic identification tags, and ray-based tomography methods. Themes include seamount effects on sound propagation, machine learning for acoustic modeling, and environmental sensing using shipping noise.

Awards:

• R. Bruce Lindsay Award (2011)
• Fellow of the Acoustical Society of America (2007)
• Institute of Acoustics A.B. Wood Medal (2009)

Advising & Grants: Dr. Sabra mentors graduate students in acoustics and wave phenomena, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration. His research is supported by grants focused on underwater acoustics, environmental sensing, and biomedical applications.

Labs/Teams: His research group develops novel sensors and algorithms for oceanographic and biomedical applications, collaborating with industry and academic partners.