New appointment boosts GDL geotechnical team

On completion of a Civil Engineering Masters at Strathclyde University and a PHD working under the supervision of Professor Alessandro Tarantino, Ian has amassed years of expertise around the theoretical behaviour of clayey soils, soil testing and classification.

He also has a wealth of experience in the modelling of soil behaviour, in particular during drying.

GDL said Ian’s move from academia to industry will provide the firm with helpful insight on its wide range of interesting civil and geotechnical engineering projects.

Managing director Kevin Mackenzie said: “Ian has a wealth of knowledge about soil and its behaviour in a range of situations, which we are eager to tap into. We are delighted that he has joined our team, and his appointment will help us to expand our in-house geotechnical capability as we look to complete bigger and more complex projects for our clients moving forward.”

Ian said joining the GDL team gives him a great opportunity to put his knowledge to work on live projects and is an exciting new challenge.

He added: “I spent five years in Strathclyde University’s new Civil Engineering research labs developing new soil testing methods. At the same time, I was also developing models that could simulate the drying shrinkage and cracking of clayey soils, and as part of my PhD, I worked for a ceramics manufacturer to find solutions to reduce/eliminate cracking during their production. While I really enjoyed the academia landscape, I was keen to work on live projects.

“My primary role at GDL is a ground modelling engineer, using 12d and Trimble to develop site models and drawing for the wide range of projects that GDL work on. I’m really enjoying the challenge of applying academic theories in order to develop positive outcomes for our clients’ live projects. I am also working towards a Chartership with the Institute of Civil Engineers, to ensure that my academic expertise is recognised in the commercial environment.”