The structural concrete research group at FHWA’s Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center in McLean, Virginia is seeking an established, renowned (national or international) researcher to provide in-depth technical support to the group’s current and emerging research thrust areas. The structural concrete group at TFHRC primarily conducts applied engineering research that aims to develop solutions for bridge owners and advance the concrete bridge engineering practice. The ultimate goal of this research is to develop design guidance, design methodologies, test methods, and best practices.  Ongoing applied engineering research is currently focused on development of innovative concrete bridge superstructure systems, development of innovative connections systems for prefabricated bridge components, development of innovative repair/retrofit/rehabilitation systems for concrete bridges, and forensic studies related to topics of national importance.

The ideal candidate has extensive experience in the following:

·         Leading large-scale experimental research projects in a structural testing laboratory,

·         Affecting change in bridge design practice at a national or international level,

·         Leading, chairing, and/or supporting the work of technical committees related to structural concrete and/or bridge engineering, and

·         Experience preparing AASHTO Load and Resistance Factor Design Bridge Design Specification, and possibly American Concrete Institute 318 Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete, ballot items to codify research findings.

Candidates with interest and experience in one or more following topics are preferred:

•          Design, analysis, testing, and behavior of pre-tensioned and post-tensioned bridge girders,
•          Innovative structural repair, retrofit, and rehabilitation solutions for concrete bridge systems,
•          Design, analysis, testing, and behavior of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) elements, and
•          Forensic analysis of and testing related to failed structural elements in the highway infrastructure.

The renowned researcher is expected to work collaboratively with federal and contract staff in the TFHRC Structural Testing Laboratory and other laboratories within the FHWA Office of Infrastructure Research and Development. The renowned researcher will also be expected to interface with other FHWA offices, relevant industry groups, external stakeholders, and external collaborators.

key words

Bridge engineering; Structural engineering; Structural concrete; Design; Analysis; Mechanical testing; Large-scale testing; Advanced materials

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents and non-U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral and Senior applicants