Xuanchi "Tom" Liu | PhD
Melbourne, Australia

Dr Xuanchi “Tom” Liu

Geotechnical / Tailings Engineer · PhD Modelling Researcher · Former Associate Professor · CFA Charterholder

Bridging geotechnical engineering, computational modelling and infrastructure risk.

Dr Xuanchi “Tom” Liu is a Melbourne-based geotechnical / tailings engineer and researcher. His technical core is geotechnical and tailings engineering underpinned by PhD-level numerical modelling — finite element analysis, porous media and mechanics-based engineering judgement developed through doctoral and postdoctoral research at the University of Melbourne, where he remains an Honorary Fellow. Around that core, he draws on structural engineering training, published biomedical modelling research, programming and financial analysis to bring a broader perspective to infrastructure decisions.

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Portrait of Dr Xuanchi "Tom" Liu

Technical Core

Geotechnical and tailings engineering, supported by research-grade numerical modelling — the two capabilities at the centre of his consulting practice.

Geotechnical & Tailings Engineering

  • Tailings & dams
  • Mining infrastructure
  • Slope stability
  • Seepage analysis
  • Embankments
  • Foundations & retaining structures
  • Tunnel design
  • Pavements
  • Site investigation
  • Construction-phase support

Numerical Modelling & Advanced Analysis

  • PLAXIS 2D/3D
  • FLAC3D
  • GeoStudio (SLOPE/W, SEEP/W)
  • ABAQUS
  • COMSOL
  • ANSYS
  • WALLAP & L-Pile
  • RocScience (RS2/RS3)
  • Settlement & deformation analysis
  • Excavation & tunnel behaviour
  • Ground-structure interaction
  • Sensitivity analysis & model validation

Supporting Strengths

Capabilities from research, structural engineering, programming and commercial analysis that extend and inform the technical core.

Biomedical Modelling Research

  • Finite element modelling
  • Porous media
  • Biomechanics
  • Material characterisation
  • Model validation
  • Peer-reviewed publications

Structural Engineering Foundation

  • Bridge abutments
  • Retaining structures
  • Load path & design integration
  • Construction supervision
  • SpaceGASS
  • Coordination with structural teams

Programming & Digital Engineering

  • Python
  • MATLAB
  • Machine learning
  • Data analysis & automation
  • Civil 3D
  • Rhino 8 & SolidWorks

Financial Analysis & Infrastructure Risk

  • Financial analysis
  • Risk-return thinking
  • Asset value awareness
  • Cost-risk-constructability
  • Long-term infrastructure decisions