Abstract

Subsurface processes control both infrastructure performance and geohazard evolution, yet they remain difficult to observe and highly uncertain. This seminar explores how mechanics, uncertainty, and risk shape behavior in complex ground, with illustrative examples from tunneling and large-deformation landslides, including submarine landslides. The talk highlights how modeling, physical testing, and uncertainty quantification can improve interpretation, risk assessment, and decision-making below the surface.

Biography

Rita Sousa is an Associate Professor of Civil Engineering at New York University Abu Dhabi. She holds a PhD in Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering from MIT, with earlier degrees from École Nationale des Ponts et Chaussées (France) and Instituto Superior Técnico (Portugal). Prior to NYUAD, she held faculty positions at Stevens Institute of Technology, Khalifa University, and Masdar Institute, and has industry experience in Europe and the Middle East.Her research focuses on tunneling planning and automation, large-deformation mechanics, stochastic modeling, AI applications in heavy construction, and natural hazard risk assessment. She is an elected Executive Board Member and Treasurer of the American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA) and has received over USD 2 million in competitive research funding, as well as multiple competitive research awards and fellowships.