Research Program
Natural and man-made hazards like wildfires and floods alter how people interact with infrastructure systems, often disproportionately affecting society’s most vulnerable. I study the resilience of coupled human–infrastructure systems, examining how human behavior, infrastructure, and policies interact amid climate change and technological shifts, including electrification and automation.
I use econometric and agent-based modeling to study the interactions between people and infrastructure within socio-technical systems. To understand lived experiences and institutional perspectives, I apply qualitative and community-engaged methods.
I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil, Materials, and Environmental Engineering at the University of Illinois Chicago, where I am building this research program. Prior to joining UIC, I was an Assistant Professor at Utah State University. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors.
Email: sgrajdu2@uic.edu
Updated October 2026