Welcome to the Rock Mechanics and Geomechanics Research Group at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), led by Dr. Wenbo Zheng, Associate Professor in Geotechnical Engineering and Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Geomechanics of Subsurface Systems for Energy and Hazard Resilience.

Our research focuses on understanding and predicting the deformation and failure of rocks, soils, and rock masses. We integrate laboratory experiments, computational modelling, and field investigations to advance fundamental knowledge in geomechanics and address engineering challenges in subsurface energy development, mining and natural resource development, and geological hazards.

Our research program encompasses two complementary areas:
(1) Rock Mechanics and Subsurface Geomechanics: We investigate the mechanical behaviour of rocks and rock masses across multiple scales, focusing on the effects of microstructure, heterogeneity, and anisotropy on deformation and fracture processes. Our research addresses hydraulic fracturing, rock–proppant interactions, fracture conductivity, coupled hydro-mechanical processes, and rock discontinuity behaviour.
(2) Geotechnical Hazards and Slope Stability: We investigate landslides, mine slopes, tailings storage facilities, and soil liquefaction through laboratory testing, field monitoring, numerical simulations, and data-driven modelling. Our research aims to improve the understanding and prediction of geotechnical failure mechanisms and support hazard assessment and engineering decision-making.