Y. Frank Chen

Biography

Dr. Chen is currently Tenured Professor of The Pennsylvania State University. He obtained his B.S.C.E. degree from Cheng Kung University (Taiwan, 1979), and M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees from The University of Minnesota (1985 & 1988 respectively), all in civil engineering. His primary research area is structures. Dr. Chen specializes in dynamic soil-structure interaction, computational methods, limit states design, seismic design and retrofitting, condition-based structural assessment, resistant design for dynamic loads, metal structures, bridge engineering, foundation engineering, geo-environmental engineering, and energy efficient material. He has been the PI or Co-PI for a number of research projects funded by various organizations domestically and internationally. The total research expenditure has surpassed $4.3 million USD covering more than 30 completed research projects. His publication record includes 135 refereed papers (83 SCI + 52 EI), 32 plus research reports, 1 book and 3 book chapters, and more than 55 graduate theses addressing various structural and geotechnical engineering issues. Dr. Chen’s research interests also include the following areas: full/large scale testing, innovative construction materials, smart structural systems, protective technology and structures, sustainable engineering, and any cutting-edge technology. He also has one patent. Dr. Chen received a number of awards including Research Award from The Pennsylvania State University, Research Fellow from National Sciences Council/Taiwan (multiple times), Daniel P. Jenny Research Award from Prestressed Concrete Institute (twice), Excellence in Transportation Design/Construction Awards from Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (three times), Outstanding Scholar Award from Central University (Taiwan), Teaching Fellow from The Ministry of Education/Taiwan, Research Fellow from Japan Society for Promotion of Science (twice), Outstanding Alumni Award from Cheng Kung University (Taiwan), Distinguished International Expert under Shanxi Hundred Talents Program (China), Guest Professor from Central South University, Chang’an University, and Chongqing University (all in China), Distinguished Professor from North University of China and Guizhou Institute of Technology (both in China), and Academic Peer from Kyushu University (Japan).

Research Interest

Protective Technology and Structures, Composite Structures, Geo-environmental Engineering, Sustainable/Green engineering, Energy efficient materials, Cutting Edge Technology