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Baraa Chalal

@baraachalal

Computational geotechnical engineer automating PLAXIS FEM workflows with Python and advancing SciML digital-twin soil models.

Algeria

Message

What I'm looking for

I’m looking for computational geotechnics roles where I can automate PLAXIS FEM workflows with Python and apply SciML/digital twins to improve soil behaviour predictions with faster, reproducible pipelines.

I’m a computational geotechnical engineer and MSc candidate specializing in geotechnical work, with a focus on Scientific Machine Learning and digital twins for soil behaviour. My goal is to merge FEM expertise with ML so results become faster, more repeatable, and more predictive.

I script full PLAXIS 2D FEM workflows in Python, turning multi-hour manual studies into an automated pipeline. In my PLAXIS 2D automation work, I replaced GUI-driven runs with scripts that read Excel inputs, build geometry, run staged construction, extract results automatically, and support parametric sweeps with automatic CSV output.

Beyond automation, I model complex geotechnical problems and validate stability metrics across phases. I’ve built a full 6-phase NATM tunnel excavation automation in PLAXIS 2D, programmatically defining structural elements and running parametric studies to evaluate soil modulus variations and disturbance zones on tunnel stability.

I also balance engineering foundations with data-driven methods. Through a laboratory internship, I executed soil classification tests, and in parallel I’m researching ML approaches—building predictive models for optimized fibre-reinforced concrete mix design using a Slime Mould Algorithm.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Laboratory Internship

LTPE Research Lab

Jan 2024 - Present (2 years 5 months)

Performed soil classification tests including Atterberg limits, index properties, and grain size analysis, documenting results under research staff supervision to support ongoing geotechnical research.

Atterberg Limits Soil Index Properties Grain Size Analysis Soil Classification Laboratory Data Recording QA&QC Stress–Strain Test Data Handling

Laboratory Intern

LTPE Research Lab

Jan 2024 - Present (2 years 5 months)

Performed geotechnical soil classification tests under research staff supervision, including Atterberg limits, index property characterization, and grain size analysis to support ongoing laboratory research.

Atterberg Limits Liquid Limit Testing Grain Size Analysis Soil Classification Index Property Measurements Geotechnical Laboratory Testing

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

University of Jijel

Master of Science (MSc), Civil Engineering (Geotechnical Specialisation)

2024 -

MSc candidate in Civil Engineering with a Geotechnical Specialisation, researching Scientific Machine Learning (SciML) and digital twins for soil behavior. Thesis focuses on training predictive constitutive models using large-scale generated datasets to replace expensive lab testing.

University of Jijel

Master of Science in Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering (Geotechnical Specialisation)

2024 -

MSc in Civil Engineering with a Geotechnical specialization, researching Scientific Machine Learning (SciML) and digital twins for soil behaviour. Thesis focuses on training predictive constitutive models on large-scale generated datasets to reduce dependence on expensive lab testing.

LTPE Research Lab, University of Jijel

Laboratory Internship, Geotechnical Testing

2024 - 2024

Laboratory internship at LTPE Research Lab where you executed geotechnical testing under research staff supervision. Performed soil classification tests including Atterberg limits, index properties, and grain size analysis.