Meet Outstanding Master's Mentor Dr. Daniel Gang
Dr. Daniel Gang is a recipient of the 2020 Outstanding Master’s Mentor Award. This award is presented to members of the graduate faculty with an exceptional record of fostering the academic and professional development of graduate Ƶs, particularly for graduate Ƶs in the master’s degree program.
Dr. Gang is the BORSF Endowed Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering.
He has served as the advisor for approximately 35 graduate Ƶs, 29 of whom were MS Ƶs.
Dr. Gang successfully engages Ƶs “in all phases of the research projects,” notes Dr. Ken McManis, professor and department head of the Department of Civil Engineering.
“He has been very supportive in mentoring and encouraging his Ƶs. All speak highly of his knowledge and the quality of his advice.”
Dr. Gang and his Ƶs have published more than 100 papers on their joint research. Graduate Ƶs also contributed to three US patents.
Dr. Gang has been principal or co-principal investigator for more than $9 million in grants. He values the pursuit of external funding in order to support graduate Ƶ participation in research projects.
“To solve diverse and complex environmental problems, Ƶs not only have to master relevant knowledge but also build up critical thinking and problem-solving skills,” Dr. Gang says.
“I believe that involvement in research is one of the best ways for Ƶs to develop such skills at both undergraduate and graduate levels.”
Dr. Gang’s high profile research, such as his work on the Wave Robber coastal erosion project, has garnered media attention and exciting opportunities for graduate Ƶs.
Dr. Gang currently serves as the graduate coordinator for the civil engineering master’s program. Beyond advising his own Ƶs, he works with all incoming civil engineering graduate Ƶs through the admissions process and continues to serve as a main contact during their time in the program.
“My goal for graduate-level engineering education is to create independent and creative thinkers who will become competent engineers and independent researchers,” Dr. Gang says.
The Graduate School applauds Dr. Gang’s exceptional dedication to the mentorship of graduate Ƶs.