Dr.Ing. Hem Bahadur Motra is a highly accomplished researcher and academic specializing in geomechanics, rock physics, and geotechnical engineering at the University of Kiel, Germany. His professional journey reflects a deep commitment to advancing the understanding of subsurface processes through innovative experimental and computational approaches. He holds advanced degrees in civil and structural engineering and has completed extensive postdoctoral research in geotechnics, rock mechanics, and subsurface physics. As a research associate and head of the Geomechanics and Rock Mechanics Experimental Laboratory at Kiel University, he has contributed significantly to the study of the mechanical, thermal, and acoustic behavior of geomaterials under complex in-situ conditions. His multidisciplinary expertise bridges geosciences, civil engineering, and energy technologies, integrating rock physics, structural mechanics, and environmental sustainability. Dr.Ing. Hem Bahadur Motra has authored 47 scientific documents with 625 citations across 537 publications and holds an h-index of 14, reflecting the strong academic impact of his research. His extensive publication record spans top-tier journals, including International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, Applied Energy, and Geotechnical and Geological Engineering. His research interests encompass multiscale geomechanical modeling, seismic anisotropy, CO₂ storage, geothermal energy, and the use of artificial intelligence in geological systems. He has led and collaborated on numerous national and international research projects funded by organizations such as DFG, DAAD, and the EU, focusing on sustainable infrastructure, rock deformation, and energy geotechnics. Beyond research, Dr.Ing. Hem Bahadur Motra plays an influential role as an editorial board member and special issue editor for several prestigious journals, contributing to the dissemination of cutting-edge developments in the field. His leadership in scientific committees, professional societies, and technical working groups further highlights his commitment to advancing interdisciplinary collaboration. Through his pioneering research, academic mentorship, and global collaborations, Dr.Ing. Hem Bahadur Motra continues to make impactful contributions to the scientific community, shaping the future of geotechnical and rock mechanics research and promoting innovative, sustainable solutions to address the challenges of modern engineering and Earth sciences.

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Featured Publications:

• Motra, H. B.(2018). Geomechanical rock properties using pressure and temperature dependence of elastic P- and S-wave velocities. Geotechnical and Geological Engineering, 36(6), 3751–3766.

• Motra, H. B.(2018). Poisson’s ratio and auxetic properties of natural rocks. Journal of Geophysical Research: Solid Earth, 123(2), 1161–1185.

• Motra, H. B.(2019). Laboratory evaluation of rock-based geopolymers for zonal isolation and permanent P&A applications. Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering, 175, 352–362.

• Motra, H. B.(2017). Meso-scale modeling of heat transport in a heterogeneous cemented geomaterial by lattice element method. Granular Matter, 19, 1–12.

• Motra, H. B.(2021). Pressure, temperature and lithological dependence of seismic and magnetic susceptibility anisotropy in amphibolites and gneisses from the central Scandinavian Caledonides. Tectonophysics, 820, 229113.