National University of Singapore | Singapore
Dr. Chian Siau Chen (Darren) is a leading geotechnical engineering scholar whose work bridges fundamental soil mechanics with innovative solutions for resilient civil infrastructure. He earned his PhD in Engineering from the University of Cambridge and holds a First-Class Honours degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Nanyang Technological University, where he graduated with the Singapore Contractors Association Gold Medal. Currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the National University of Singapore, he also serves in multiple leadership roles that contribute to advancing geotechnical practice and education. His appointments include Vice Dean of Student Life at the College of Design and Engineering, Director of the Centre for Resilient Underground Infrastructure and Engineering, and President of the Geotechnical Society of Singapore. Dr. Chian’s research spans sustainable materials, ground improvement, earthquake engineering, centrifuge modelling, remote sensing, protective technologies, and post-failure field investigations. His work often integrates experimental, numerical, and field approaches to address infrastructure challenges in hazard-prone and urban environments. He has participated in post-earthquake reconnaissance missions across Asia, Africa, and South America, contributing valuable field insights to global seismic risk understanding. A widely recognized researcher and educator, Dr. Chian has received numerous accolades, including the IAAM Scientist Medal (2024), multiple NUS teaching excellence awards, and recognition among the Top 10 MIT Innovators Under 35 Asia. His distinguished service to the profession is further acknowledged through awards from the Geotechnical Society of Singapore and national accreditation bodies. Through his contributions, Dr. Chian continues to shape resilient, safe, and sustainable geotechnical engineering practices worldwide.
Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar
Publications
Chian, S. C., Tokimatsu, K., & Madabhushi, S. P. G. (2014). Soil liquefaction–induced uplift of underground structures: Physical and numerical modeling. Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering, 140(10), 04014057.
Qin, C. B., & Chian, S. C. (2018). Kinematic analysis of seismic slope stability with a discretisation technique and pseudo-dynamic approach: A new perspective. Géotechnique, 68(6), 492–503.
Fraser, S., Raby, A., Pomonis, A., Goda, K., Chian, S. C., Macabuag, J., Offord, M., … (2013). Tsunami damage to coastal defences and buildings in the March 11th 2011 Mw9.0 Great East Japan earthquake and tsunami. Bulletin of Earthquake Engineering, 11(1), 205–239.
Chian, S. C., & Madabhushi, S. P. G. (2012). Effect of buried depth and diameter on uplift of underground structures in liquefied soils. Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering, 41, 181–190.
Goda, K., Pomonis, A., Chian, S. C., Offord, M., Saito, K., Sammonds, P., Fraser, S., … (2013). Ground motion characteristics and shaking damage of the 11th March 2011 Mw9.0 Great East Japan earthquake. Bulletin of Earthquake Engineering, 11(1), 141–170.