Associate Professor in Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering Dr James Hambleton was honoured by US President Joe Biden with the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). PECASE is the highest honour bestowed by the US government on outstanding scientists and engineers early in their careers, with nearly 400 honoured by President Biden. Jim has been named in the National Science Foundation sub-category.
A civil engineer, Jim’s broad interests are in mechanics, especially in plasticity and soil mechanics. A major focal point of his work over the coming years is to advance the understanding of how soils are moved and shaped through interaction with objects and machinery. He is increasingly interested in construction robotics and computerisation/automation in architecture, engineering, and construction.
Established by President Bill Clinton in 1996, PECASE recognises scientists and engineers who show exceptional potential for leadership early in their research careers. The award recognises innovative and far-reaching developments in science and technology, expands awareness of careers in science and engineering, recognises the scientific missions of participating agencies, enhances connections between research and impacts on society, and highlights the importance of science and technology for a nation’s future.
Jim says: “I am ecstatic to receive this award and profoundly grateful on so many levels - and to so many individuals, including my family, students, colleagues, and multiple institutions. This is a highlight of my career to date and incredible fuel to keep going, not only with research but more importantly with the effort to excite and attract future civil engineers."