Georgios Tsampras

Georgios Tsampras is an esteemed Assistant Professor in the Department of Structural Engineering at the University of California San Diego. His research is primarily focused on enhancing the seismic response and life management of structures, aiming to bolster the safety and reliability of civil infrastructures against the unpredictable forces of earthquakes. Through a combination of multi-scale integrated experimental and analytical research, he delves into the intricacies of components, connections, and systems that form the backbone of resilient structures. Tsampras's work is particularly centered on mitigating the sensitivity of seismic responses in structures to strong-ground motions during earthquakes. His innovative approach seeks to simplify the complexities involved in managing structural integrity, ensuring that buildings and infrastructures can withstand seismic activities more effectively. His contributions to the field are marked by a commitment to advancing the understanding and application of seismic force-resisting systems. Before joining UC San Diego, Tsampras gained valuable industry experience at SpaceX, where he served as a Falcon Vehicle Structures Engineer. His role involved working on cutting-edge aerospace structures, which provided him with a unique perspective on engineering challenges. Additionally, he worked as an engineering consultant at Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc., where he honed his skills in structural analysis and design. Tsampras's academic journey led him to earn his doctorate from Lehigh University in 2016. During his doctoral studies, he developed and evaluated a novel deformable connection for earthquake-resistant buildings, a project that underscored his dedication to innovative solutions in structural engineering. His academic excellence was recognized with the P.C. Rossin Doctoral Fellowship by the Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science at Lehigh University in 2014. In 2015, Tsampras received the Excellent Presentation Award from the Japan Association for Earthquake Engineering, highlighting his ability to communicate complex engineering concepts effectively. His achievements reflect a career dedicated to pushing the boundaries of structural engineering, with a focus on creating safer, more resilient infrastructures in the face of natural disasters.