His doctoral work, conducted under the supervision of Jun.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Lars Abrahamczyk (Chair of Advanced Structures), supported by German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), presents a significant contribution to the field of earthquake engineering. The examination committee – appointed by the Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering – comprised Prof. Dr. Horst-Michael Ludwig (chair), Jun.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Lars Abrahamczyk, Prof. Dr.-Ing. habil. Torsten Wichtmann (RUB), Prof. Patrick Staubach, Prof. Dr. Sc. Davorin Penava (University of Osijek, Croatia), and Dr. Gunther Aselmeyer.

The key contribution of his research was the development of a new Equivalent Linear Spring-Damper (ELSD) model, created to represent complex nonlinear soil behaviour in a simple and practical way. He also carried out detailed three-dimensional finite element simulations using the advanced Clay Hypoplasticity soil model to explore how SSI influences the seismic response of reinforced concrete structures. The results showed that SSI can significantly increase lateral deformation and ductility demand, especially in mid- and high-rise buildings, while reducing base shear forces. These effects were found to influence not only the overall structural performance but also the inelastic behaviour and damage patterns of key structural components. The study further examined the role of SSI in the response of unreinforced masonry infill walls and highlighted that SSI can amplify infill damages by increasing both in-plane and out-of-plane deformations. This combined effect makes infill walls more vulnerable to failure during strong seismic events.

The overall findings of his research emphasize the critical importance of incorporating SSI effects in structural analysis and design to ensure realistic assessment and improved seismic safety. Throughout his doctoral journey, Baban A. Bapir actively disseminated his research findings at international conferences and in peer-reviewed journals, earning recognition within the academic and engineering communities.

The Chair of Advanced Structures congratulates Dr. Baban A. Bapir on this important academic milestone and wishes him continued success in his professional career.