<p data-start="0" data-end="395">I wish to join NICMAR University, Pune as an Assistant Professor of Structural Engineering because of its strong integration of engineering principles with construction management and infrastructure practice. NICMAR&rsquo;s emphasis on industry-oriented education, project management, and real-world application aligns closely with my academic philosophy and research vision in structural engineering.</p>
<p data-start="397" data-end="1181">My research focuses on the durability and long-term performance of reinforced concrete (RC) structures, particularly corrosion-induced cracking under sustained service load conditions. Modern structural engineering must go beyond strength-based design and address serviceability, deterioration, and life-cycle performance. Infrastructure today faces challenges such as environmental degradation, aging, and increased service demands. Through my work on computational modeling and fracture-based assessment of concrete cracking, I aim to develop realistic predictive frameworks that can improve durability assessment and maintenance planning. NICMAR&rsquo;s close engagement with the construction and infrastructure sector makes it an ideal platform to translate such research into practice.</p>
<p data-start="1183" data-end="1762">A key aspect of my research is incorporating realistic boundary conditions&mdash;such as sustained service loads and rebar&ndash;concrete bond effects&mdash;into predictive models for corrosion-induced cracking of concrete cover. Such considerations are often simplified in conventional approaches, leading to gaps between analytical predictions and field behavior. By addressing these aspects, my work contributes to more reliable performance assessment and long-term design strategies, which are highly relevant for infrastructure asset management&mdash;an area central to NICMAR&rsquo;s academic ecosystem.</p>
<p data-start="1764" data-end="2381">In teaching, I strongly believe in building conceptual clarity while maintaining strong practical relevance. Structural engineering education should equip students not only with analytical skills but also with the ability to interpret structural behavior in real construction scenarios. I emphasize fundamentals of mechanics, structural analysis, and reinforced concrete design, while integrating discussions on durability, failure mechanisms, and case studies from real infrastructure projects. This approach prepares students to think critically and apply theoretical knowledge effectively in professional practice.</p>
<p data-start="2383" data-end="2850">At NICMAR, I would be keen to contribute to core courses such as Structural Analysis, Reinforced Concrete Design, and Construction Materials, while also developing advanced modules related to structural durability, service-life modeling, and performance-based assessment of existing structures. These themes complement NICMAR&rsquo;s focus on infrastructure development and life-cycle management, and would add depth to the structural engineering component of its programs.</p>
<p data-start="2852" data-end="3311">Beyond teaching and research, I am committed to mentoring students and fostering analytical thinking, research aptitude, and professional ethics. I believe that faculty members play a critical role in shaping not only technical competence but also decision-making ability and responsibility toward sustainable infrastructure development. Encouraging students to undertake applied research addressing real construction challenges would be one of my priorities.</p>
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<p data-start="3313" data-end="3769" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">In summary, NICMAR-Pune offers a dynamic academic environment where structural engineering knowledge intersects with construction management and industry practice. I am confident that my expertise in durability modeling, performance assessment of RC structures, and commitment to high-quality teaching would allow me to contribute meaningfully to the department and support NICMAR&rsquo;s mission of developing technically sound and industry-ready professionals.</p>