Dr Yang Ma

Dr Yang Ma is a Lecturer in Civil Engineering specialising in structural engineering, computational mechanics, finite element analysis and modelling of structural systems. His academic work integrates advanced theoretical approaches with practical engineering applications, particularly in stability, buckling behaviour, shell theories, materials, renewable energy, cyclic load and fatigue and numerical algorithms for simulating structures.

Since joining LSBU, Dr Ma has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to teaching excellence and student-centred learning. His approach effectively integrates analytical theory, numerical methods and real-world engineering practice. By incorporating industry-relevant tools like Abaqus, ANSYS, Revit, robots, AutoCAD, Python and MATLAB into his teaching, he fosters both conceptual understanding and practical technical competence. This ultimately enhances graduate employability.

Dr Yang Ma’s research focuses on structural mechanics and computational modelling, with particular emphasis on the stability, optimisation, and performance of engineering structures under complex loading conditions. His work integrates advanced theoretical methods with numerical simulation to address challenges in both traditional structural systems and emerging energy infrastructure.

A central strand of his research is the buckling and post-buckling behaviour of thin-walled and tubular structures, particularly in the context of wind turbine towers and bracing systems. His earlier work demonstrated the application of energy-based methods to evaluate structural stability under combined loading conditions in cylindrical shells. Building on this foundation, his recent work extends towards large-scale and offshore energy systems, including sustainability and resilience assessment of floating energy infrastructures. This reflects a broader research direction that connects structural performance with environmental and system-level considerations, particularly in the development of modular offshore energy solutions and sustainable infrastructure systems.

In parallel, Dr Ma is actively developing research in structural optimisation, employing metaheuristic algorithms to explore high-dimensional design spaces for truss and shell structures. Additional research themes include finite element modelling of material heterogeneity, cyclic behaviour under repeated loading, and the performance of high-strength and hybrid structural systems. He’s recently been developing FE models for SMS bracing systems under cyclic loading conditions. These models combine experimental results and extend to novel IH high-strength steel structure design, referencing Eurocode.

Overall, his research aims to bridge fundamental mechanics, computational innovation, and sustainability-driven engineering design, contributing to the advancement of resilient and efficient structural systems in both conventional and renewable engineering applications.

Finete Elements and Stress Analysis - MSc - Module Leader

Structures and Construction Management - L5 - Module Leader

BIM and Design - L5

Structures and Construction Technology B - L4 - Module Leader

Construction Practice B - L4 

Construction Practice C - L4

Undergraduate Final Project - 11 titles provided

MSc final thesis - 10 titles provided

Dr Ma is involved in the European COST Action CA20109 MODENERLANDS, contributing to Workgroup 2 on Modular Energy Islands for Sustainability and Resilience. This work extends his recent research on renewable energy structures, wind turbine systems, structural optimisation, and resilient infrastructure, while supporting international collaboration through training schools, meetings, research exchanges, and joint publications.

Dr Ma is also participating in COST Action CA23109 Fatigue Benchmark Repository (FABER), with engagement in Workgroup 2 fatigue data analysis, Workgroup 3 fatigue estimation, WG4 fatigue categorisation, and Workgroup 6 open-source fatigue library development. This activity connects closely with his work on high-strength steel, cyclic loading, buckling behaviour, and the combined assessment of fatigue and structural stability.

Dr Ma serves as the Link Tutor for Applied Science University Bahrain (ASU), based within LSBU Global. In this role, he supports the academic partnership between London South Bank University and ASU through regular liaison with colleagues at both institutions and annual visits to ASU.

His responsibilities include contributing to curriculum review, accreditation-related evaluation, module box checks, academic quality assurance, and the enhancement of programme delivery. He is also involved in delivering visiting lectures, serving as an external juror for student presentations, and supporting academic dialogue between LSBU and ASU.