Prof. B. Umashankar
Prof. B. Umashankar
Broad Research Areas
Message from the Group Head, GRIP Lab
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the GRIP Lab (Geomechanics Research for Infrastructure and Pavements) at IIT Hyderabad. Our lab is driven by the vision of advancing geotechnical engineering knowledge to address critical challenges in infrastructure development and pavement systems.
At GRIP Lab, we integrate fundamental geomechanics with emerging technologies to create innovative and sustainable solutions for modern infrastructure. Our research spans a wide spectrum, including reinforced earth structures, soil–structure interaction, foundation engineering, ground improvement techniques, and geosynthetics in pavements, as well as the use of recyclable materials and AI/ML applications in geotechnics.
This platform also provides insights into the ongoing and completed research carried out by our students on diverse topics, along with their published literature and overall outcomes, reflecting the depth of contributions from the group.
The GRIP Lab provides a vibrant environment for Ph.D., M.Tech., and undergraduate students to engage in cutting-edge research. Our alumni have gone on to contribute significantly in academia, industry, and government organizations, carrying forward the ethos of innovation and excellence.
Prof. Umashankar Balunaini
 Professor, Department of Civil Engineering
 Head, GRIP Lab – IIT Hyderabad