Dr. Peter Savolainen

Biography

Peter T. Savolainen is a Foundation Professor and the Chairperson of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Michigan State University. He has developed an internationally recognized research program focused on traffic operations and safety. His core research examines the fundamental nature of road user behavior, particularly how it is affected by roadway and traffic environmental characteristics. Savolainen's investigations include the effects of roadway design and environmental factors, as well as in-vehicle distractions that contribute to traffic crashes. To date, he has served as the principal investigator or co-PI on more than $17 million worth of externally funded research, winning over 75 competitive grant awards from agencies such as the Federal Highway Administration and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Savolainen's work has led to the publication of more than 100 peer-reviewed articles. His expertise is reflected in his service on the editorial boards of journals such as Accident Analysis & Prevention and Analytic Methods in Accident Research, as well as his memberships in various Transportation Research Board Committees. He has received multiple awards for his papers recognized as high-value research by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.

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Awards