Salençon Jean

Jean Salençon is a prominent academic and researcher in mechanics and civil engineering. He currently holds the position of Senior Fellow at the Institute for Advanced Study, City University of Hong Kong since 2016. Previously, he served as Visiting Distinguished Professor (2014–2016), Chair Professor-at-large (2011–2014), and President of the Académie des sciences (2009–2010). His academic career includes roles as a Professor of Mechanics at the École polytechnique (1982–2005) and Head of the Department of Mechanical and Material Sciences at the École nationale des ponts et chaussées (1980–1985).

Salençon’s research focuses on continuum mechanics, soil mechanics, yield design theory, and composite materials. His work bridges theoretical advancements with practical applications in geotechnical engineering and structural analysis. Notable contributions include probabilistic approaches to yield design, stability analysis of earthworks, and macroelement modeling of foundations under seismic loads.

• Key Awards: Trevithick Prize (1990), Montyon Prize (1978), Member of the Académie des sciences (1988), and multiple honorary memberships in international academies.
• Leadership Roles: Rector of the CISM (2004–2012), Member of the Bureau IUTAM (2000–2004), and President of the Académie des sciences (2009–2010).

Salençon has authored seminal textbooks such as Handbook of Continuum Mechanics (2001) and Yield Design (2013), contributing significantly to global engineering education and research.