Luis G. Arboleda

Luis G. Arboleda is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil, Environmental and Construction Engineering at the University of Central Florida, College of Engineering and Computer Science. His research expertise spans geotechnical engineering, soil-structure interaction, numerical modeling, and earthquake engineering, with a focus on infrastructure resilience and underground construction.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering, Northwestern University, 2014
• M.S. in Structural Engineering, Purdue University, 2006
• B.S. in Civil Engineering, National University of Colombia, 2004

Dr. Arboleda's research interests include soil-structure interaction, geotechnical earthquake engineering, soil liquefaction, constitutive modeling of soils and rocks, field and laboratory testing, and sinkhole geomechanics. His work integrates advanced numerical simulations with experimental validation to improve the analysis and design of geostructures such as deep excavations and foundations. He has made significant contributions to understanding the nonlinear-inelastic behavior of soil and structures under seismic and construction loads.

The trend in his recent publications reflects a strong emphasis on numerical modeling of soil-structure systems, particularly in deep excavations and tall buildings subjected to seismic and dynamic loading. His work bridges geotechnical and structural engineering, advancing predictive capabilities for ground deformations, soil response, and structural performance. Key themes include nonlinear modeling, field validation, and performance-based design under extreme events.

Scientific Awards:

• Outstanding Reviewer, Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering (ASCE), 2021
• Fellowship, Second Early Career Workshop for Junior Geotechnical Faculty, Case Western Reserve University, 2018

Dr. Arboleda actively advises graduate students and contributes to major research initiatives, including infrastructure protection from hurricanes. He has led and co-authored numerous studies on excavation-induced movements, seismic soil-structure interaction, and constitutive modeling. His prior industry experience at Janssen and Spaans Engineering Inc. informs his applied research on bridge and infrastructure systems.

He is involved in research teams focusing on geotechnical performance, numerical simulation, and infrastructure resilience. His lab work includes laboratory testing of soils and advanced numerical modeling using finite element and hypoplasticity frameworks.