Sebastiano Foti

Sebastiano Foti is a Full Professor of Geotechnical Engineering at the Polytechnic University of Turin, where he also serves as Vice-Rector for Teaching and Head of the Department of Structural, Building and Geotechnical Engineering (DISEG). He is a member of the Academic Senate and the University Committee for Research, Technology Transfer, and Services to the Territory, and contributes to the SISCON Interdepartmental Center for Infrastructure Safety. His academic and administrative leadership underscores his central role in Italian civil engineering education and research.

Research Interests:

• Geotechnical earthquake engineering and seismic risk assessment
• Soil-structure interaction and dynamic behavior of bridges
• Surface wave methods for seismic site characterization
• Hydrogen and energy storage in geological formations
• Soil liquefaction and foundation scour

His recent publications emphasize advancements in non-invasive geophysical methods, particularly surface wave analysis, with strong applications in seismic hazard mitigation and infrastructure resilience. The research spans theoretical modeling, experimental validation, and practical implementation in urban and environmental planning.

Scientific Awards:

• Bishop Medal 2003, British Institution of Civil Engineers
• Honorable Mention, Best Paper in GEOPHYSICS, SEG (2011)
• 2018 Outstanding Paper Award, Earthquake Spectra (EERI)

Foti actively supervises PhD students and leads major research initiatives, including PNRR-funded projects such as DREAM and RETURN, focusing on resilient infrastructure and multi-risk science. He has also led commercial and public-sector collaborations with entities like ANDRA, Unicredit, and the Italian Civil Protection Department, demonstrating strong industry and policy engagement. His advisory role extends to national and international institutions, including service as a Visiting Professor at Nagoya University.

Laboratories and Research Teams: He leads research within DISEG, particularly in geotechnical earthquake engineering, and collaborates with interdisciplinary teams on projects involving seismic safety, energy storage, and sustainable urban development.