Vikash Gayah

Vikash Gayah is a Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Pennsylvania State University’s College of Engineering. He is based in the Sackett Building at University Park, PA, and is actively involved in transportation research and leadership, currently serving as the interim director of the Larson Transportation Institute. His research is affiliated with themes of equitable communities and the built environment.

Dr. Gayah's research focuses on urban mobility, traffic flow theory, transportation operations, network modeling, and safety. His work addresses real-world challenges such as intersection efficiency, pedestrian safety, and the integration of connected vehicles. He has extensively studied traffic signal control strategies, crash modification factors, and the impacts of infrastructure treatments like rumble strips and high-friction surfaces.

The recent publications highlight a consistent focus on traffic safety analytics, optimization of signal control, and the use of advanced modeling techniques such as Max-Pressure algorithms and empirical Bayes methods. His research spans urban and rural contexts, with applications in Pennsylvania and broader transportation networks. Key trends include multimodal integration, data-driven safety improvements, and sustainable transportation solutions.

• Interim Director, Larson Transportation Institute (2023–present)
• Research focus on equitable and sustainable transportation systems
• Active involvement in interdisciplinary seed grant projects through the Institute for Energy and the Environment (IEE)

Dr. Gayah mentors several graduate students who co-author his publications, indicating an active research group. He has not received explicitly listed scientific awards in the provided text, but his frequent media appearances and leadership roles reflect recognition in the field. His research is supported by institutional and interdisciplinary grants, particularly those addressing climate and sustainability challenges in transportation.