Mark Tufenkjian; Ph.D., P.E.; Professor and Chair

Faculty Photo
College of Engeering, Computer Science, and Technology
Department of Civil Engineering
Office ETA-211
Phone
(323) 343-4434
Email
mtufenk@calstatela.edu

INTRODUCTION

I began my full-time teaching career at CSLA in 1997. Prior to that I worked as a geotechnical consultant in the Los Angeles area for such companies as Woodward-Clyde, Law/Crandall, and Leroy Crandall & Associates. I have maintained a consulting role but now focus primarily in conducting advanced laboratory testing (Triaxial, Direct Simple Shear, Resonant Column, Torsion Shear, Ring Shear). Our geotechnical laboratory is fully equipped to handle a wide variety of testing conditions. I also maintain an array of in-situ penetrometers (cone, ball, vane).


TEACHING INTERESTS

I take pride in being able to teach a wide array of geotechnical courses - from undergraduate soil mechanics to graduate geotechnical earthquake engineering. I especially enjoy teaching geotechncal laboartory testing.


RESEARCH

My primary research interests are in advanced laboratory testing and in-situ testing in relation to seafloor engineering. I have performed studies for the Office of Naval Research and the Department of Defense using alternative penetrometers to measure the undrained shear strength of soft clays and friction angle of loose sands. These studies have involved designing large scale laboratory testing equipment specficic to the projects. More recently, I am looking at how measurment of geophysical parameters can be used in offshore studies to estimate strength properties of soils.

2015-16 CSLA Outstanding Professor Award Video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yOKuD1J2xh4


 

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

Ph.D. Civil Engineering, 1993
University of California, Los Angeles

M.S. Civil Engineering, 1989
University of California, Los Angeles

B.S. Civil Engineering, 1986
California State University, Fresno