Dr Xuanchi “Tom” Liu
Geotechnical / Tailings Engineer · PhD Modelling Researcher · Former Associate Professor · Melbourne, Australia
A downloadable PDF version can be provided on request — see Contact.
1. Professional Summary
Dr Xuanchi “Tom” Liu is a Melbourne-based geotechnical / tailings engineer and researcher. His core practice is geotechnical and tailings engineering supported by PhD-level numerical modelling, combining Australian consulting experience with research-grade capability in finite element analysis, porous media and model validation. Supporting strengths in structural engineering, biomedical modelling research, programming, CAD and financial analysis broaden the perspective he brings to infrastructure design and risk decisions.
2. Core Geotechnical & Tailings Skills
3. Numerical Modelling & Advanced Analysis
4. Programming, CAD & Digital Engineering
5. Biomedical Engineering Research & Computational Mechanics
6. Structural Engineering & Infrastructure Experience
7. Financial Analysis & Infrastructure Risk
8. Professional Experience
REC (Resource Engineering Consultants)
Apr 2026 – PresentSupporting tailings, dams and mining infrastructure projects, with exposure to seepage, slope stability, water balance and dam safety review tasks. Applying numerical modelling and geotechnical design experience to support modelling-informed risk assessment and design decision-making for tailings and water management infrastructure.
Stantec
Apr 2024 – Apr 2026Delivered geotechnical analysis and design inputs for foundations, retaining structures, pavements, underground works and sensitive infrastructure, with a strong focus on numerical modelling, deformation assessment and ground-structure interaction. Built, reviewed and interpreted PLAXIS 2D/3D and WALLAP models to assess settlement, excavation stability, tunnel behaviour and construction-induced ground movements. Translated complex modelling results into design memoranda, technical reports and client-ready advice.
Selected projects:
- North East Link Project, Victoria — Bridge Abutments & Retaining Structures
- M4 Watermain Project, Melbourne — Settlement & Deformation Assessment
- Rawdon Pumped Hydropower Tunnel Project, Queensland — Tunnel Design
- Gisborne District Council Cyclone Landslip Remediation, New Zealand
CMW Geosciences
Jun 2022 – Apr 2024Delivered geotechnical investigations, design inputs and construction support for transport, pavement, earthworks, quarry and infrastructure projects across Victoria, including Tier-1 alliance works. Prepared pavement, hardstand and earthworks designs with a focus on ground model interpretation, constructability and lifecycle performance. Conducted piling inspections, pile integrity testing and construction compliance verification.
Selected projects:
- North East Link Project, Victoria — Pavements, Hardstands & Piling
- Cardinia Shire Council Road Upgrade Projects
- Langwarrin Quarry & Boral Quarry Projects, Victoria
Country Garden Properties Ltd
Jul 2016 – May 2017Supervised construction of a 15-storey residential apartment project, including coordination with subcontractors and consultants, quality control, safety checks and resolution of construction issues.
9. Research & Academic Appointments
Harbin Institute of Technology
Apr 2023 – Nov 2023Academic appointment reflecting research and teaching contribution in civil / structural engineering at Harbin Institute of Technology.
University of Melbourne
Jul 2021 – PresentPhD-level research in biomedical engineering, spanning porous media, biomechanics, finite element modelling, cartilage lubrication, bone fracture healing mechanisms, motion capture systems and muscle loading. Developed capability in model formulation, parameter interpretation, mechanics-based problem solving, programming and data interpretation. Published peer-reviewed research and supervised undergraduate and postgraduate students. This research and computational modelling capability directly underpins the numerical modelling methods applied in subsequent geotechnical practice.
10. Education
| Qualification | Institution | Period |
|---|---|---|
| PhD of Engineering, Civil Engineering Focus: numerical modelling, mechanical characterisation, material behaviour, solid mechanics, biomechanics, porous media theory. Awards: Melbourne Research Scholarship (2019–2023); 2023 PhD Write-Up Award. |
University of Melbourne | Aug 2019 – Jan 2023 |
| Master of Information Technology (Part-time, in progress) Relevant focus: programming, data analytics, software development, computational methods. |
University of Melbourne | Jul 2025 – Present (expected 2029) |
| Master of Engineering, Civil Engineering (with Distinction) WAM 86.7, GPA 3.8. Dean’s Honours List, 2018 and 2019. First-ever full marks (100) in CVEN90050 Geotechnical Engineering. |
University of Melbourne | Jul 2017 – Jun 2019 |
| Bachelor of Engineering, Structural Engineering Graduated with Honours. WAM 82.3, GPA 3.6. 2015 Merit Student of Harbin Institute of Technology. |
Harbin Institute of Technology | Sep 2012 – Jun 2016 |
11. Professional Memberships
- Member, Engineers Australia
- Member, Australian Geomechanics Society
- Member, CFA Institute
- Member, CFA Society Australia
12. Certifications & Additional Qualifications
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) — passed Levels I, II and III of the CFA Program within 1.5 years, with top-10% global performance
- General Construction Induction Card
- Rail Industry Workers Card
- Postgraduate study in information technology, extending programming and data-analytics capability alongside engineering practice
- Experience supervising and mentoring undergraduate and postgraduate students in a research setting
13. Selected Publications
Peer-reviewed publications from doctoral and postdoctoral research in computational modelling, porous media and biomechanics. A full and current list is maintained on Google Scholar and ResearchGate. A curated selection with relevance notes for geotechnical and modelling audiences is presented on the Research & Computational Modelling page.