Conrad Childs

Dr. Conrad Childs is an Assistant Professor/Lecturer in Structural Geology at University College Dublin (UCD), School of Earth Sciences. He holds a PhD from the University of Liverpool (2000) and has held roles including Senior Research Fellow at UCD's Fault Analysis Group (2000–2009) and Research Fellow at the University of Liverpool (1997–2000). His research focuses on fault zone dynamics, basin evolution, and structural geology with emphasis on offshore Ireland. Key interests include fault geometry, hydraulic properties, numerical modeling, and tectonostratigraphic evolution of sedimentary basins.

Education:

• BSc Geology, University College Cork (1985)
• MSc Structural Geology & Rock Mechanics, Imperial College London (1986)
• PhD, University of Liverpool, 'The structure and hydraulic properties of fault zones' (2000)

Research Interests:

• 3D geometry and evolution of faults
• Basin analysis and offshore Ireland's structural evolution
• Fault seal capacity and hydraulic properties
• Integration of deep learning with seismic interpretation
• Impact of basement fabrics on basin development

Teaching: Coordinates modules such as 'Applied Structural Geology,' 'Field Geology Level 1,' and 'Geoscience Research Project,' emphasizing hands-on structural analysis and fieldwork.

Grants: Led the PRTLI 5 grant (2011–2016) supporting PhD research in Earth Sciences. Active in collaborative projects addressing fault reactivation risks and subsurface storage potential.

Awards: No specific awards listed, though his extensive publications highlight sustained research excellence.

Labs & Collaboration: Part of UCD's Fault Analysis Group, contributing to interdisciplinary studies on fault zone mechanics and basin evolution.