David Timm, Ph.D., P.E., F.ASCE, a lead researcher at the National Center for Asphalt Technology, has been named a fellow by the ASCE Board of Direction.
Timm has devoted his career to advancing the field of pavement engineering through a well-rounded blend of research, education, professional service, and practical innovation. His most significant contributions center on mechanistic-empirical (M-E) pavement design and the development of perpetual pavement systems for flexible pavements. As Timm has played a pivotal role in the development, instrumentation, and analysis of experimental sections at the NCAT Test Track—one of the world’s foremost facilities for full-scale, accelerated asphalt pavement testing. His work has been instrumental in shaping national pavement design standards and has contributed to the creation of more durable, sustainable, and cost-effective highway infrastructure.
Timm has served as principal investigator on 41 completed research projects, with six projects currently in progress. His research has introduced innovative methods for pavement performance evaluation and fatigue prediction and led to the development of tools such as the PerRoad perpetual pavement analysis software, which is widely used across the pavement engineering industry.
A strong advocate for balance in professional pursuits, Timm has contributed across technical, educational, and service dimensions. He has authored or co-authored over 200 technical publications and has mentored more than 25 graduate students. His excellence in teaching and mentoring has been recognized through multiple university and national awards. Additionally, he has developed and delivered numerous short courses and webinars to support continuing professional education.
Timm has also provided substantial service to the profession through leadership roles with the Transportation Research Board and the Association of Asphalt Paving Technologists, and by serving as associate editor for two ASCE journals. These roles have allowed him to influence the evolution of pavement engineering and promote innovation and collaboration across the field.
Now serving as chair of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Auburn University, Timm remains committed to preparing the next generation of civil engineers to lead with technical excellence, integrity, and a dedication to public service.
