Research

Dr. Zamiran's research explores a range of topics within geotechnical engineering, emphasizing seismic investigation, foundation design, and numerical modeling. Through rigorous analysis and experimentation, he seeks to understand soil behavior under different conditions such as seismic loading. His work aims to uncover fundamental principles and practical insights for engineering applications, contributing to the development of resilient infrastructure solutions. As an accomplished author and presenter, Dr. Zamiran's contributions play a vital role in advancing the field of geotechnical engineering.

RESEARCH Group

Patrick Redmond

Patrick Redmond is a Civil Engineer student at the University of Houston’s Cullen College of Engineering. His journey began with diverse roles in the construction industry, including stone mason, CNC machine operator, heavy equipment operator, and concrete worker. Intrigued by the physics of construction, Patrick joined the HCC/UH Engineering Academy of Katy. Now fully transitioned to UH, he's enrolled in classes at UH anticipating graduation in May 2025. Enrolling in Dr. Zamiran’s Geotechnical Engineering Class (CIVE 3339) at UH led Patrick to participate in the Energy Scholarship Program sponsored by Phillips66, British Petroleum, and Baker Hughes. He is collaborating with Dr. Zamiran on a research project analyzing seismic hazards at LNG sites across North America.

Josiah Rooker

Josiah Rooker, an undergraduate research assistant working under Dr. Zamiran supervision, is currently studying at the University of Houston for his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. His research is deeply rooted in the passion for finding innovative solutions that address the myriad challenges faced by society and engineers. His work focuses on the field of Soil-Pipe Interaction Investigation and Analysis, where he examines the complex relationships between oil and gas pipelines and the various forces affecting these structures. This research is vital for improving our understanding of how pipelines interact with their environment and for identifying areas where enhancements are necessary to boost their longevity and stability.

HIGHLIGHTED RESEARCH

PROBABLISTIC Seismic HAZARD ANALYSIS 

The research delves into the interaction between soil and structures during seismic events. By analyzing liquefaction susceptibility and ground motion amplification, insights are gained to bolster seismic hazard assessment and develop mitigation strategies for infrastructure resilience.

Soil-Pipe  interaction investigation and analysis

This research delves into the interaction between soil and pipes within geotechnical engineering. It explores factors influencing this interaction, such as soil type, pipe material, and installation methods. Insights gained contribute to enhancing the resilience of underground infrastructure, reducing the risk of pipe failure and ensuring long-term performance.

Numerical Modeling for Geotechnical Analysis

Advanced software packages such as FLAC, FLAC3D, and PLAXIS are utilized to develop and refine numerical models. These models simulate complex geotechnical processes accurately, facilitating the evaluation of engineering structures under various scenarios and informing design decisions and risk assessments.

RECENT PUBLICATIONS

• Marino, G.G., Zamiran, S., Almiron, F. (2022). An Overview of Chimney Subsidence above Coal Mines. Journal of Geotechnical and Geological Engineering, Springer. 

• Marino, G.G., Zamiran, S., Talebi, M. (2020). Investigation of the Horizontal Displacement of Ground Surface Due to Longwall Mining. Journal of Geotechnical and Geological Engineering, Springer.

• Rafieepour, S., Zamiran, S., & Ostadhassan, M. (2020). A Cost-Effective Chemo-Thermo-Poroelastic Wellbore Stability Model for Mud Weight Design During Drilling Through Shale Formations. Journal of Rock Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering.

• Kong, L., Ostadhassan, M., Zamiran, S., Liu, B., Li, C., & Marino, G.G. (2019). Geomechanical Upscaling Methods: Comparison and Verification via 3D Printing. MDPI Journal of Energies.

• Zamiran, S., & Osouli, A. (2018). Seismic Motion Response and Fragility Analyses of Cantilever Retaining Walls with Cohesive Backfill. Journal of Soils and Foundations, Elsevier. 

• Zamiran, S., Rafieepour, S., & Ostadhassan, M. (2018). A Geomechanical Study of Bakken Formation Considering the Anisotropic Behavior of Shale Layers. Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering, Elsevier.

• Osouli, A., & Zamiran, S. (2017). The Effect of Backfill Cohesion on Seismic Response of Cantilever Retaining Walls Using Fully Dynamic Analysis. Journal of Computers and Geotechnics, Elsevier. 89, 143–152.

• Marino, G.G., Osouli, A., Zamiran, S., & Shafii, I. (2016). Performance of a Pier Group Foundation in Swelling Rock, Journal of Geotechnical and Geological Engineering, Springer.