Michael Kiernan

Dr. Michael Kiernan is a Lecturer in the Department of General Engineering at Clemson University. He holds a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from Auburn University (2021), an M.S. from Auburn (2019), and a B.S. from the University of California, Davis (2015). His research focuses on numerical methods for landslide analysis in strain-softening clays and integrating geophysical techniques with traditional geotechnical explorations for sinkhole and landslide site characterization. Kiernan teaches courses such as ENGR 1010, ENGR 1410, and ENGR 1640, emphasizing engineering problem-solving and programming.

His work spans landslides, sinkhole detection, and geophysical integration into infrastructure projects. Notable publications include studies on landslide simulations, sinkhole geophysical surveys, and highway-related geotechnical investigations. Kiernan is affiliated with the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the United States Society of Dams (USSD). His contributions to Auburn University’s National Geotechnical Experimentation Site and Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) projects highlight his applied research in geotechnical engineering.