Cha Won-Jun, a graduate of Kookmin University (KMU), has been appointed as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Birmingham in the UK. Cha Won-Jun began his academic journey at the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering in 2007. He earned his master's degree at KMU, focusing on research that assessed the vulnerability of slope structures using imaging infrared technology. Subsequently, he pursued a doctoral degree at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia, where he conducted research on the long-term behavior of soil in relation to climate change and natural disasters. Last year, he completed his doctorate and worked as a researcher at the Research Center of Smart Infrastructure at the University of Berkeley, where he was involved in a project aimed at developing a model for monitoring and maintaining aging infrastructure using smart sensors and robots. The University of Birmingham, established in 1825, boasts a rich tradition spanning nearly two centuries. It currently accommodates around 36,000 students, making it the seventh-largest university in the UK. Furthermore, the University of Birmingham is highly esteemed globally and is one of the founding members of the Russell Group, a prestigious consortium of UK universities. According to the QS World University Rankings (2019), the University of\ Birmingham ranks 14th in the UK and 79th in the world. In addition, it received the title of 'University of the Year 2014' at the Times Higher Education Awards.

1. I understand that you enrolled in the School of Civil Environmental Engineering at KMU in 2007 and also completed your undergraduate program here. Since you spent a significant amount of time at this institution, what does KMU represent to you? I believe this place must evoke fond memories as you return for an interview after being appointed as an assistant professor. Furthermore, how has your time here positively influenced your journey to becoming an assistant professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Birmingham, UK?

KMU is a place where I could revisit my childhood dreams. When I was young, I aspired to become an inventor. However, upon enrolling at the university, my goals became somewhat vague, leaning towards joining a major company. Nevertheless, I discovered my true passion while delving into soil mechanics lessons and experiments, allowing me to understand the Earth and its nature experientially. This process solidified my determination to engage in this field for the long term. Furthermore, I owe my dream of becoming a researcher to Professor Kim Hyun-Ki, my master's advisor. To achieve this aspiration, I decided to study abroad, and that decision ultimately led me to the opportunity to become an assistant professor at the University of Birmingham.


2. Did you ever envision yourself becoming a lecturer or professor during your undergraduate years? If so, what efforts did you make during your academic journey? If not, what activities did you participate in that contributed to your career?

Throughout my undergraduate years, the idea of pursuing a career in academia never crossed my mind. However, a favorite among my major courses was an experimental class, and it was during this time that I realized my happiness lay in continued research and experimentation.


3. You conducted a study on assessing the vulnerability of structural slopes using infrared images at the Graduate School of KMU. Could you provide detailed explanations of your research for students unfamiliar with this topic?

Natural disasters, such as heavy rainfall, can pose a threat to structural slopes. Particularly, the loss of earth and sand from a structure's back, such as a retaining wall, presents a significant risk. This phenomenon can profoundly impact the stability of the structure. During my master's program, I developed a technique for estimating soil loss through model experiments using infrared images. With this method, I conducted research to precisely assess the presence and size of cavities resulting from soil loss behind these structures.


4. During your doctoral program, you conducted a study on the long-term behavior characteristics of soil at KAUST, which is related to climate change and natural disasters. How does climate change relate directly to the long-term behavior of soil, and how does it impact societal issues like global warming?

Climate change can directly affect soil subsidence and the stability of structures. Continuous temperature rises can significantly alter the freezing depth of the earth. Moreover, the increase in sea levels due to temperature changes can induce subsidence by altering the chemical properties of the soil.


5. You worked as a researcher at the Berkeley Center for Smart Infrastructure, where you developed a model to monitor aging social infrastructure using smart sensors and robots. Could you please elaborate on the nature of this model?

During my tenure at Berkeley as a researcher, I participated in a project that evaluated the structural integrity of various buildings using a variety of sensors, investigating their long-term behavior. Notably, I collaborated with the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) to monitor longer-term changes by installing optical fiber sensors along water pipes passing through the Hayward Fault Zone in the Bay Area. Based on this data, we identified potential damage and continued our study on area maintenance. Furthermore, I also conducted a study assessing the level of damage to a pump pit inside a small tunnel using a gas sensor, a 360-degree camera, and a stereo camera mounted on a Boston Dynamics robot.


6. Could you share a challenging experience from your development process and how you overcame it?

Introducing robots as a new approach in geotechnical engineering posed a challenge. It was difficult to find an expert who could provide me with previous research data and advice in this area. However, I explored new methods for conducting my study and connected with experts from other fields. This challenge eventually turned into an opportunity to initiate other new projects.
 

7. In essence, Civil System Engineering strives to meet the needs of our society through environmentally friendly measures while respecting nature. However, balancing human needs without harming the environment is often considered challenging. What is your perspective on this?

Sustainable development has become a pivotal aspect of Civil System Engineering. Our ultimate goal isn't merely the completion of projects but also considering their long-term impact on the community and the environment. Striking a balance between environmental preservation and meeting human needs is undoubtedly challenging. However, collaborative efforts and interdisciplinary studies will lead to innovative models that promote environmental sustainability, ultimately addressing the challenges we face today. 


8. What are your current research projects at the Department of Civil Engineering, University of Birmingham? Could you also share your future plans?

I am currently planning to conduct a study focused on developing a model and instrumentation system capable of predicting the long-term behavior of renewable energy structures, such as geothermal heating, wind power, and wave power generation. Through this research, I aim to contribute to the creation of a foundational framework that can address the crises caused by climate change.
 

9. As a final question for this interview, could you offer some advice to KMU students aspiring to work in your field in the future?

A career in research is akin to running a marathon. Instead of fixating on short-term success or competing with others, focus on your genuine passion for the field with consistent and sincere effort. Expect unexpected challenges and setbacks along the way. The key is not to give up during those moments but to delve deeper into your chosen field, seeking new ideas and solutions. Moreover, remember that research is a collaborative endeavor. Engage in healthy exchanges of ideas with colleagues and other researchers to gain diverse perspectives and information. Maintain your pace and persevere, for continuous effort and a willingness to explore your field will lead you to achieve your goals.

Lee Song-Lee, Oh Mi-Kyung
Reporters
Songleelee@kookmin.ac.kr
ilavu1038@kookmin.ac.kr