Aaron Gallant

Dr. Gallant is a geotechnical engineer whose work spans foundation and ground improvement systems, innovative soil stabilization methods, and geotechnical hazards—combining theory and practice to understand and improve how the ground interacts with the built environment.

His research focuses on rigid inclusions and column-supported embankments, micropiles, helical piles, and earth retention systems, with emphasis on load transfer, deformation mechanisms, and system performance. He also develops emerging stabilization approaches, including accelerated mineral carbonation—which permanently sequesters CO₂ in a carbonate binder—and induced partial saturation for liquefaction mitigation, with focus on gas longevity and field verification.

He is an active member of the Geotechnical Extreme Events Reconnaissance (GEER) Association and has participated in investigations of events such as the 2018 Palu-Donggala earthquake. His work also includes landslide vulnerability assessments in Maine’s Presumpscot Formation.

His research is supported by federal, state, and industry partners, including the National Science Foundation, U.S. Department of Transportation, U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Maine Department of Transportation, Deep Foundations Institute, and the National Concrete Masonry Association. He has been recognized for both engineering contributions and mentorship, including the American Society of Civil Engineers Young Civil Engineer of the Year Award and the University of Maine Faculty Mentor Impact Award.