Dr Mohsen Ebrahimi
Principal river engineer at SYSTRA UK & Ireland
Expertise
Design, Environmental Management, WaterLocation
United KingdomMy highlights
Chartered Fellow of the ICE and CIWEM
PhD in river engineering
Lead designer for major projects specialising in innovative scour protection systems
A day in my life
During weekdays, I collaborate with teams from across various disciplines. For example: hydraulic modelling, landscaping, geomorphology (study of the earth’s physical features and their origin), structural engineering, and geotechnics (behaviour of earth materials).
Our focus is designing innovative solutions that boost resilience to climate change while benefitting the environment and communities.
Another part of my role involves mentoring and developing less experienced engineers.
Biweekly, I conduct construction site inspections to make sure design specifications are being followed and gain insights into how they're being practically implemented.
[Being an ICE member] has enhanced my credibility, opening doors to more senior roles and responsibilities in my field.
Which individual project or person inspired you to become a civil engineer?
The monuments that I would see around my city.
We asked Dr…
I would recommend a career in civil engineering because…
You can make a lasting difference in the world.
I've experienced firsthand the diverse roles this profession offers – from design to project management and site work.
Our broad education in water, transport, structures, geotechnics, and construction opens doors to various specialisations.
We're at the forefront of addressing critical challenges like climate change, particularly in sectors such as energy, transport, and water management.
Complete this phrase: I’m a civil engineer, but I’m also…
A husband, a freelance graphic designer, and a nature lover!
What about being a civil engineer gets you out of bed each morning?
Knowing that I’m having a lasting impact on the environment and society.
And, looking forward to the next challenge.
What’s one great thing that you love about civil engineering that you didn’t know until you started working in the industry?
That it extends beyond the construction works you see from outside. It’s very complex and the people in the industry are so clever!
Which civil engineering project (past or present) do you wish you’d worked on?
While part of me wishes I’d been a bridge engineer working on the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, my answer aligns more closely with my actual specialty.
I would’ve loved to work on either the Thames Barrier or the Panama Canal.
Name one civil engineering myth you’d like to bust.
That civil engineers only build bridges and roads.
Has civil engineering helped you overcome any personal hurdles/difficulties?
Attention to detail: the precision required in engineering has improved my overall organisational skills, helping me manage personal and professional responsibilities more effectively.
What motivated you to become professionally qualified?
I soon realised how important ICE qualifications are in our industry to progress in my career. I had all the required competence and had the flare to become a Chartered Engineer (CEng).
What does being professionally qualified with the ICE mean for your career?
Professional recognition and opportunities for career advancement.
What’s the best thing about being professionally qualified with the ICE?
The recognition and respect it commands in the industry. It also allows me to mentor and develop the next generation of engineers.
How did the ICE and your employer support you to become professionally qualified?
Resources from the ICE and amazing sponsors from my employers were crucial in helping me achieve my professional qualification.
What do you value most about being an ICE member?
Ongoing professional growth and advancing the profession.
How has being a member helped your career?
It has enhanced my credibility, opening doors to more senior roles and responsibilities in my field.
Dr Ebrahimi's career path
I studied a bachelor's and master's degree in civil engineering in Iran. Then, I pursued a PhD in river engineering at the Queen's University in Canada.
I moved to the UK for a post-doctoral research position at the University of Exeter.
A wish to see theories in practice led me to transition into industry, consulting as a river engineer at Mott MacDonald. I then moved to SYSTRA, where I became a principal engineer.
I obtained my ICE chartership after four years of dedicated effort. I became a Fellow of the ICE at 40 years old, only 16 months after becoming chartered!
