This book provides a comprehensive exploration of state-of-the-art technical research and review studies focusing on the use of metaheuristic algorithms in geotechnical and geological engineering. These algorithms are extensively used to address various challenges in the field, such as determining critical slope failure surfaces, improving safety in construction and mining, interpreting geophysical data, identifying subsurface structures and potential hazards, optimizing foundation designs to mitigate earthquake risks, and minimizing environmental issues related to material preparation in both pre-construction planning and post-construction phases. Academics, students, and industry professionals find this book valuable, as it highlights the vital roles of metaheuristic algorithms in enhancing efficiency, longevity, usefulness, and effectiveness in geotechnical and geological problem-solving. Additionally, the chapters in this book have the potential to inspire further interdisciplinary research, particularly in examining the durability and environmental sustainability of current systems.

Danial Jahed Armaghani is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Australia. His research focuses on civil and geotechnical engineering, with interests in slope stability analysis, rock mechanics, tunneling, surface and deep excavations, and the application of machine learning and optimization techniques to geotechnical problems. Dr. Armaghani has authored more than 250 publications in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings. His research has received substantial international recognition. Through his work, he has contributed to the advancement of data-driven approaches for the analysis, design, and management of geotechnical and infrastructure systems.

Behzad Fatahi is Professor of Civil, Railway, and Geotechnical Engineering at the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Australia. His research focuses on infrastructure and building technologies, dynamic soil-structure interaction, railway geomechanics, ground improvement, and the application of machine learning to infrastructure design and performance assessment. He received his doctorate in Railway Geomechanics from the University of Wollongong and has been involved in numerous infrastructure projects in Australia and internationally. Prof. Fatahi has published more than 240 peer-reviewed journals and conference papers and has edited books and authored book chapters in his field. A Chartered Professional Engineer and Fellow of Engineers Australia, he has supervised numerous Ph.D. candidates and secured significant research funding for industry- and government-supported projects.