Sebastian Krastel

Prof. Dr. Sebastian Krastel serves as Professor of Marine Geophysics and Hydroacoustics at Kiel University's Institute of Geosciences, where he leads the Marine Geophysics and Hydroacoustics research team. His academic journey includes previous positions as Professor for 'Submarine Hazards at Continental Margins' at GEOMAR (2008-2012), 'Akademischer Rat' at Bremen University (2007-2008), and Scientific Assistant at the same institution (2001-2006).

Dr. Krastel earned his Ph.D. in Earth Sciences in 1999 from GEOMAR Research Center with a thesis on 'Growth processes and destructive events during the evolution of volcanic islands: a case study from the Canary Islands.' His educational background includes MSc (Diploma Geophysicist) studies at Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel (1988-1995).

His research focuses on submarine hazards, slope stability mechanisms, and sediment processes along continental margins. Krastel's work integrates advanced marine geophysical methods with hydroacoustic techniques to investigate geological processes with significant implications for tsunami generation and coastal hazard assessment. His expertise spans the evolution of lakes, submarine volcanoes, and mass wasting phenomena across diverse global settings.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on submarine landslide dynamics, volcanic flank collapses, and their geohazard implications. His research spans critical regions including the Canary Islands, Mediterranean Sea, Northwest African margin, and various lake systems, employing high-resolution bathymetric data, seismic reflection profiling, and sedimentological analysis.

Dr. Krastel coordinates the SSP106 Priority Program: International Continental Drilling Program (ICDP) and has participated in over 40 research cruises as chief scientist. He serves on the IODP Scientific Technology Panel and Site characterization panel, contributing to international scientific drilling initiatives.

He leads an extensive research group comprising numerous doctoral researchers, postdocs, and master's students including Dr. Jens Schneider von Deimling, Dr. Philipp Held, Dr. Rachel Barrett, and others. His team conducts fieldwork worldwide with strong international collaborations across Europe, Africa, and the Americas, maintaining active involvement in major research projects related to marine geohazards and continental margin processes.