Dr. Patrick Bassal is an assistant professor in geotechnical engineering. His research investigates the influence of geologically-informed subsurface variability for (1) evaluating the stability and resilience of geosystems (e.g., earth dams, embankments, bridge foundations, tunnels) subjected to natural hazards, and (2) improving geotechnical site characterization practices. He also contributes to on-site reconnaissance efforts following extreme events, including earthquakes and hurricanes.

Dr. Bassal holds a PhD in geotechnical engineering from the University of California, Davis, an MS in Geoengineering from the University of California, Berkeley, and a BS in civil engineering from the California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. He is a licensed civil engineer and has worked as a geotechnical consultant with Amec Foster Wheeler (now Wood Inc.) in Oakland, CA and WSP in New York, NY, where he primarily contributed to the geotechnical and seismic designs and rehabilitations of transportation facilities, coastal structures, and nuclear plants. He is an active member of the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute (EERI), as well as the ASCE Geo-Institute’s Continuing Education Committee and Innovative Technologies and Tools Task Force.