Research Opportunities

General Information

Thank you for showing interest in pursuing graduate studies at NCSU!

The NCSU Earthquake Engineering Group is always looking for motivated and talented graduate students. To apply for the Structural Engineering and Mechanics program, please follow the policies outlined in the resources below. Applications to the graduate program will be used to assign available research positions. Please follow the application process described in the links below as unsolicited emails will not be replied.

CCEE Department Admission Information

NCSU Graduate School

Available research opportunities with Dr. Kowalsky:

Graduate Students: Exceptional students are encouraged to apply to our graduate program. Please see below for attributes and skills we seek.

Undergraduate Students: Interested students may contact Dr. Kowalsky by email, submitting a short CV. We routinely have 2-4 undergraduate students working in our group.

Desirable attributes and skills of prospective students:

While academic excellence is essential for the members of our research group, it does not necessarily mean academic perfection. Equally important is intellectual curiosity and attention to detail. Above all, students who adhere to a motto of "Be on time, be present, and work hard" are what we hope to see. Among the attributes we desire in our students are:

(1) Strong commitment to their studies. Graduate studies in our group should be entered with a passion for learning in the field of Earthquake Engineering.

(2) Leadership qualities.

(3) Ownership and initiative in research.

(4) Strong communication skills.

(5) Ability to work with others.

(6) Good time management skills.

(7) Genuine enthusiasm for learning and a willingness to engage their peers in discussion about their work.

(8) Laboratory and/or engineering experience is desirable, but not essential.

(9) Computational skills in non-linear analysis are desirable, but not essential.

If the above appeals to you, I encourage you to submit an application for graduate school and contact me regarding your interests.