Background
I am Bryan Castillo Torres, a Colombian civil engineer from Cali, specializing in structural, seismic, and dynamic engineering. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, a Specialization in Structural Engineering, and a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, all from Universidad del Valle. My academic career has focused on evaluating structural behavior under dynamic loading conditions using real-time hybrid simulations. Professionally, I have contributed to innovative projects, including the static and dynamic evaluation of civil infrastructure, the use of 3D-printed unconventional materials for structural applications, and the reinforcement of structures using mixed control systems. My expertise includes Structural Health Monitoring, probabilistic modeling, operational modal analysis, and large-scale experimental testing. I have collaborated with national and international research teams, including internships supported by Colombia’s Ministry of Science and Technology. I have actively participated in international conferences and publications, presenting research findings and engaging with global experts in structural engineering. Proficient in MATLAB and advanced structural analysis software, I am deeply committed to sustainable engineering practices. Outside work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, which fuels my curiosity and collaborative spirit.
Motivation
My motivation for pursuing a Ph.D. stems from my deep passion for advancing structural engineering through innovative methodologies and my specific interest in the goals of Subproject DC13 under the BRIDGITISE initiative. The integration of structural health monitoring data into probabilistic models for bridge design represents a cutting-edge approach to addressing critical challenges in infrastructure resilience and sustainability. I am particularly enthusiastic about contributing to the development of robust probabilistic frameworks that enhance the accuracy of structural assessments and practical maintenance strategies. This Ph.D. aligns perfectly with my long-term professional goal of bridging the gap between academic research and industrial application. By combining my expertise in dynamic structural evaluation, operational modal analysis, and probabilistic modeling, I aim to develop methodologies that are scientifically rigorous and transferable to real-world projects. At the conclusion of this project, I aspire to make a tangible impact by advancing the integration of monitoring data into international bridge design standards, contributing to safer and sustainable infrastructure. Through this Ph.D., I am committed to leveraging my skills and passion to address key challenges in structural engineering while collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to develop innovative solutions for the future of bridge design and maintenance.