Youngjin Park
Youngjin Park
Biography
Dr. Youngjin Park is a Research Associate Professor in the Energy Production and Infrastructure Center (EPIC) at UNC Charlotte, where his research lies at the intersection of advanced materials science and structural engineering. He focuses on understanding the complex mechanical behavior and durability of critical industrial infrastructure materials, including concrete, steel, and sophisticated composite systems. Complementing his academic pursuits is extensive geotechnical engineering experience in the Boston area private sector. As an R&D team member, he specialized in comprehensive monitoring solutions, mastering laboratory and field experimentation, and developing sensors and instrumentation for short- and long-term monitoring. His diverse practical portfolio includes work on resilient modulus testing, dam erosion protection using advanced filter materials, and modifying specialized resonant and torsional shear testing devices. Highly skilled in capacity building and project logistics, he has also designed various geotechnical testing equipment and successfully trained and mentored engineering teams, positioning him as a well-rounded expert who bridges academic research and industrial application.
His research portfolio focuses on the quantitative understanding and predictive modeling of structural integrity within heterogeneous industrial materials. His academic work at UNC Charlotte’s EPIC investigates the failure mechanics and long-term performance characteristics of critical engineered media such as reinforced concrete, various steel grades, and advanced composite materials. This theoretical grounding is deeply informed by robust industry experience in geotechnical engineering derived from the Boston metropolitan area.
His applied research methodology emphasizes a holistic approach combining controlled laboratory testing with complex in-situ field monitoring. Key technical proficiencies include:
- Advanced Material Testing: Conducting detailed analyses (e.g., Resilient Modulus Testing) to characterize material response under cyclic and dynamic loading regimes.
- Hydraulic & Geotechnical Stability: Focused research on mitigating infrastructure degradation, particularly the design and validation of adequate filter materials crucial for preventing erosion damage in dams.
- Instrumentation and Monitoring: Expertise in integrating sophisticated sensor packages and instrumentation systems for reliable short- and long-term structural health monitoring (SHM).
Furthermore, his industrial background provides unique insight into research execution. He has been actively involved in the design, prototyping, and deployment of specialized geotechnical / general testing equipment—including modifications to complex devices such as resonant and torsional shear testing apparatuses. This practical experience extends beyond mere technical operation, encompassing team training, logistical planning, and serving as a vital link between fundamental scientific principles and actionable civil engineering solutions.
Education
Ph.D., Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in Civil and Environmental Engineering (Geotechnical Engineering major), 2003
M.S.C.E., Pusan National University in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical Engineering major), 1997
B.S., Pusan National University in Civil Engineering, 1991