Pradeep Kurup

Pradeep Kurup is a Distinguished University Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the Francis College of Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell. With over 25 years of academic experience, he has established himself as a leading researcher in geotechnical engineering with particular expertise in site characterization, novel sensing technologies, and computational modeling approaches for geoenvironmental applications.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering (1993), Louisiana State University
• M.Tech. in Civil Engineering (1987), Indian Institute of Technology - Madras, India
• B.Tech. in Civil Engineering (1985), University of Kerala, India

Professor Kurup's research spans multiple domains within geotechnical engineering, with particular emphasis on multi-sensor data fusion, site characterization & monitoring, application of novel sensing technology to geotechnical & geo-environmental engineering. His work integrates advanced experimental techniques with computational approaches including finite element modeling and artificial neural networks. His research has evolved from traditional geotechnical methods toward innovative sensing technologies for environmental monitoring and hazard detection.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trend toward interdisciplinary research combining geotechnical engineering with chemical sensing, machine learning, and nanotechnology. His work increasingly focuses on developing electronic nose and tongue technologies for environmental monitoring, explosives detection, and heavy metal characterization, while maintaining strong connections to traditional geotechnical applications.

Selected Awards:

• University Professor (2014) - University of Massachusetts Lowell
• Diplomat Geotechnical Engineering (D.GE) (2012) - Academy of Geo-Professionals
• CAREER Award (1999) - National Science Foundation
• Departmental Teaching Award (2002) - UMass Lowell
• Member - Chi Epsilon Civil Engineering Honor Society

Professor Kurup has secured substantial research funding from the National Science Foundation, Federal Highway Administration, Environmental Protection Agency, and other agencies, totaling millions of dollars over his career. His grant portfolio includes multiple NSF CAREER awards and REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates) supplements, demonstrating his commitment to both research and education. He has mentored numerous undergraduate and graduate students through these research programs, fostering the next generation of engineers.

His laboratory work focuses on developing innovative sensing technologies including the Electronic Nose Cone Penetrometer (ENCPT) for geoenvironmental site characterization, modular integrated cone penetrometers, and portable air samplers for detecting toxic chemicals and explosives. His research group collaborates extensively with industry partners and international institutions to translate laboratory innovations into field applications.