Dr. MacLaughlin shared highlights from over 30 years of research  in geotechnical engineering at our April 3, 2026 Seminar Series. Dr. Mary MacLaughlin is the Goldcorp Professor and Head of the Department of Civil Engineering at Montana Tech.

A highly respected expert in geotechnical engineering and rock mechanics, MacLaughlin has decades of research and academic leadership spanning areas such as slope stability, numerical modeling, and geological material characterization. Her work has contributed to advancing both experimental and computational approaches to understanding complex geo-structural systems.

In her seminar, Dr. MacLaughlin shared highlights from over 30 years of research at Montana Tech. She presented recent advancements in predicting rock block movements during earthquakes, including the use of shake table experiments and continued development of the Limited Displacement Direct Shear Test for rock joints. She also discussed innovative applications of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to collect field data, supporting engineering analysis and the design of underground openings.

The seminar also emphasized opportunities for collaboration between Montana Tech and the University of Utah, particularly in areas of shared research interest within geotechnical and geological engineering.

The event brought together students, faculty, and members of the engineering community for an engaging discussion on emerging tools and methodologies in rock mechanics and earthquake engineering.