ASCE has honored Ahmed-Waeil Elgamal, Ph.D., M.ASCE, with the 2025 H. Bolton Seed Medal for his extraordinary contributions to geotechnical earthquake engineering and his pioneering research in advancing soil dynamics and the understanding of soil behavior, liquefaction, and seismic soil-structure interaction.
Elgamal has profoundly influenced the field of geotechnical earthquake engineering through his groundbreaking research and innovations over the past 35 years. His pioneering work in developing and implementing advanced soil models and finite element methods for seismic analysis has revolutionized how geotechnical engineers understand and address earthquake-related challenges. One of Elgamal's most notable contributions is making these sophisticated modeling tools widely accessible via open-source platforms like OpenSEES. This democratization of technology has transformed research and education, enabling engineers and scholars worldwide to conduct complex, realistic simulations of soil behavior during earthquakes.
His research encompasses a broad spectrum, including constitutive modeling of soils, system identification of geotechnical systems, and large-scale experimental investigations of soil-structure interactions. Elgamal's work not only advances theoretical understanding but also offers practical solutions to real-world problems, enhancing the resilience and safety of structures subjected to seismic forces. Beyond his scientific achievements, Elgamal is celebrated for his intellectual humility and dedication to mentoring the next generation of engineers and researchers. His collaborative spirit and openness to new ideas have inspired many, making him a revered figure in the geotechnical community.
The H. Bolton Seed Medal recognizes outstanding contributions to teaching, research, and/or practice in geotechnical engineering.
