The Center for Explosion Resistant Design (CERD), part of the College of Engineering, gathers a diverse group of scholars, including faculty, postdoctoral fellows, MS and PhD students, and UG honor research students who specialize in researching materials and technologies to develop structural components and systems to resist explosions. This team combines expertise from fields like civil engineering and materials science to make buildings safer against unexpected explosions. They work together to develop innovative approaches that protect both people and infrastructure.

Dr. Salim is a Professor at the University of Missouri College of Engineering, specializing in structural materials and systems. With over 25 years of experience, he has led innovative projects funded by the Department of Defense and collaborated with transportation departments on various initiatives, including blast hazard mitigation for bridges. As the director of MU's Center for Explosion Resistant Design, he conducts pivotal research and influences industry standards as a member of ASCE committees. Dr. Salim's research sponsors include agencies like the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC), Air Force Research Laboratory, and Air Force Civil Engineer Center.