Alessandro Palermo

Professor
University of California San Diego

Dr. Alessandro Palermo is a structural engineer, researcher, and educator at the University of California San Diego, internationally recognized for his pioneering work in developing practical engineering solutions that minimize post-earthquake damage, especially in timber structures.

Before joining UCSD in 2023, he was a professor at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand, where he helped create the globally adopted PRES-LAM technology, the foundation for resilient timber construction.

With over 450 publications and recognition among the top 2% most-cited civil engineers (SCOPUS), Dr. Palermo bridges research, education, and industry practice. His patented unbonded post-tensioned timber systems have led to over 15 completed buildings, new design guidelines, and a university spin-off company advancing this work globally.