Dr. Kadek Hendrawan Palgunadi is a researcher at the Swiss Seismological Service (SED) under ETH Zurich. His work focuses on seismology, earthquake dynamics, and fault system analysis with a particular emphasis on Indonesia and Türkiye. He has contributed significantly to understanding cascading earthquake mechanisms, fault geometry characterization, and ground motion modeling. His recent studies include analysis of the 2023 Türkiye earthquake doublet, the 2022 Cianjur earthquake, and the newly identified Kalaotoa Fault system. Key research areas include multiscale seismicity patterns, fracture energy analysis in fault networks, and innovative methods for seismic waveform generation using machine learning. He has developed methodologies for hypocenter relocation and rupture dynamics modeling, contributing to improved seismic hazard assessments in active tectonic regions. His work also extends to interdisciplinary projects such as the Sea-VL dataset for Southeast Asia vision-language studies and sustainable agriculture systems. Notable contributions include insights into fault slip localization, stress regime analysis in complex fault systems, and applications of denoising diffusion models for high-resolution seismic data processing. Collaborations involve international institutions and fieldwork in regions like Sulawesi, Sumatra, and the East Anatolian Fault zone.
Amirhossein Bagheri is a planetary geophysicist currently serving as a Postdoctoral Scholar Research Associate at the Seismological Laboratory of the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), collaborating with Prof. Mark Simons and NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory. His research focuses on planetary interior structure and evolution through geodetic, tidal, and seismic analyses. PhD in Planetary Geophysics from ETH Zurich MSc and BSc in Civil Engineering from Sharif University of Technology His research employs numerical methods, inversion techniques, and orbital dynamics to study habitability and interior properties of planetary bodies, particularly icy moons (Enceladus, Europa, Pluto-Charon) and Mars' satellites. Recent work includes modeling Enceladus' subsurface ocean using geodetic data and investigating tidal-thermal evolution across multiple planetary systems. Scientific publications span tidal dynamics , interior modeling , and seismic wave propagation in complex media. Collaborations include institutions like UC Berkeley, NASA JPL, and ETH Zurich.
Amir Khan is a Senior Lecturer and Privatdozent at ETH Zurich's Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, affiliated with the Institute of Geochemistry and Petrology and the Institute of Geophysics. His research focuses on non-linear inverse problems, geophysical data analysis, and the structure of terrestrial planets, particularly Mars and Earth. He holds a PhD in Geophysics from the University of Copenhagen and a Habilitation from ETH Zurich. Khan teaches courses such as 'Physics of Planetary Interiors' and 'Potential Field Theory'. His work integrates seismology, electromagnetic sounding, and gravity data to study planetary interiors, with notable contributions to the InSight Mars mission, including Martian core detection and mantle structure analysis. Collaborative projects span lunar geophysics, exoplanet interiors, and tidal evolution of celestial bodies. Education: Ph.D., Geophysics (2003, University of Copenhagen); M.Sc., Physics (1998, Odense University); Habilitation (2014, ETH Zurich). Research Interests: Planetary seismology, mantle composition, inverse problem methodologies, and exoplanet studies. His work often combines geophysical modeling with mineral physics, addressing questions about planetary formation and evolution. Teaching includes advanced geophysical courses at ETH Zurich, emphasizing theoretical and computational aspects of potential field theory and planetary interior physics.
Derecke Palmer is an Honorary Senior Lecturer at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), affiliated with the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences. He is a leading international authority on near-surface seismic refraction methods, notably pioneering the Generalized Reciprocal Method (GRM) and the Refraction Convolution Section (RCS), for which he has received awards from Australian and international geophysics societies. His research focuses on advancing full waveform seismic refraction data processing using tools like Seismic Unix, aiming to generate detailed compressional and shear wave models of near-surface structures. Applications include statics corrections for seismic reflection data, geotechnical analysis, and natural resource management. His work addresses complex environments such as sand dunes and infrastructure-adjacent areas with low signal-to-noise ratios. Palmer’s publications span over three decades, emphasizing methodological advancements in refraction tomography, amplitude analysis, and inversion strategies. His articles highlight challenges like non-uniqueness in inversion, uncertainty quantification, and the integration of multi-fold data. He has contributed to both theoretical frameworks and practical field applications, including case studies like the Mt Bulga Shear Zone and syncline models. Scientific Awards: Awards from Australian Exploration Geophysics Societies International Exploration Geophysics Society Recognition Advising & Grants: While specific student advisees are not listed, his extensive publications indicate collaborative research efforts in geophysical exploration and environmental geoscience. Labs/Teams: His work is closely tied to the development and application of Seismic Unix tools for near-surface analysis.
Alain Plattner is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Geological Sciences at the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, where he leads research in planetary and near-surface geophysics. His lab utilizes satellite magnetic data and geophysical instrumentation to study terrestrial planets and subsurface structures. Education: PhD Computational Geophysics, ETH Zürich (2011) MS Mathematics, University of Basel (2006) BS Mathematics, University of Basel (2004) Research Focus: Dr. Plattner investigates planetary interiors using magnetic field data from NASA missions (MESSENGER, MAVEN) to understand geologic history of Mercury, Mars, and Ganymede. His near-surface geophysics work employs electrical resistivity tomography and ground-penetrating radar for archaeological, hydrological, and geological applications, with field sites including Yosemite Valley and Mississippian platform mounds. Publication Trends: His recent articles demonstrate dual expertise in planetary magnetism (87%) and near-surface methodologies (13%), with emerging focus on machine learning applications in geophysics. Core themes include crustal magnetization modeling, Slepian function development, and subsurface visualization techniques. Research Infrastructure: Leads the Plattner Geophysics Group with equipment including: PulseEKKO Ultra GPR system (50/100/200 MHz) ABEM Terrameter LS2 resistivity/IP system Differential GPS High-performance computing resources Advising & Funding: Mentors MS/PhD students in NASA-funded planetary research and teaching-assistantship-supported near-surface projects. Current advisees include Alyssa Mills (planetary) and Yagmur Yilmaz (near-surface), with recent graduate Marcus Pacheco (MS).
Joonas Ilmavirta is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of Jyväskylä, affiliated with the Faculty of Mathematics and Science. He is part of the Centre of Excellence of Inverse Modelling and Imaging (2018–2025) and contributes to the Inverse Problems research group, focusing on mathematical frameworks for indirect measurements. His work intersects applied and pure mathematics, with applications in geophysics, material science, and astrophysics. Research interests include inverse problems, geometric analysis, and tomography. Key areas are the reconstruction of structures from boundary measurements (e.g., seismic imaging, elasticity tomography), spectral rigidity of manifolds, and quantum computing algorithms for inverse problems on graphs. He explores theoretical foundations and practical implementations of indirect measurement techniques, emphasizing stability, uniqueness, and computational methods. Notable contributions include studies on Finsler geometry, anisotropic elasticity, and low-regularity manifolds. His work addresses challenges in geophysical imaging, such as determining Earth’s internal structure or gas giant compositions using seismic or gravitational data. Collaborative projects involve the FAME Flagship initiative, advancing sensing, imaging, and modeling through inverse problem methodologies. Publications emphasize geometric tomography, ray transforms, and mathematical physics, with a focus on rigorous analysis and interdisciplinary applications. He engages with both theoretical developments and computational tools, bridging pure mathematics with real-world inverse problem solutions.
Eric O. Lindsey is an Assistant Professor at the University of New Mexico's Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences within the College of Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on geodetic measurements of Earth's surface deformation using GPS/GNSS and InSAR technologies, particularly in active tectonic and volcanic regions. Lindsey explores tectonic processes, earthquake mechanics, and human-induced land changes, with field projects in Myanmar, Indonesia, Costa Rica, and the U.S. Southwest. He earned his Ph.D. in Geophysics from UC San Diego (2015) and has conducted postdoctoral research including a Fulbright-Nehru fellowship. His work includes advancing InSAR processing techniques, collecting seafloor geodetic data offshore Central America, and developing numerical models of fault behavior. Key research interests: geodesy applications in tectonics, megathrust coupling analysis, anthropogenic land subsidence, and earthquake/volcanic hazard assessment. Current projects involve dense GNSS networks in Myanmar, submarine GNSS installations in the Middle American Trench, and InSAR-based land deformation mapping in coastal cities. Recent studies highlight discoveries like 32-year slow-slip events preceding Sumatran earthquakes and subsidence-driven sea-level rise in major cities. Lindsey mentors students through UNM's E&PS graduate programs, emphasizing fieldwork and computational geophysics training.
Siew Ann Cheong is an Associate Professor in the Division of Physics and Applied Physics at the School of Physical & Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore. He is also an External Faculty member at the Complexity Science Hub (CSH) since 2019. Associate Professor, NTU (2016–present) Assistant Professor, NTU (2007–2016) Postdoctoral Associate, Cornell Theory Center (2006–2007) External Faculty, Complexity Science Hub (2019–present) Educational Background: B.Sc. (Hons) in Physics, National University of Singapore (1997) M.Sc., National University of Singapore (2000) M.Sc., Cornell University (2002) Ph.D. in Theoretical Condensed Matter Physics, Cornell University (2006) Siew Ann Cheong’s research centers on understanding the dynamics of complex systems with many degrees of freedom, such as financial markets, earthquakes, infectious diseases, biological sequences, and social systems. He employs both modeling and data-driven approaches to explore fundamental questions: What makes a system complex? How does complexity emerge? His goal is to develop a computational theory of complex systems by treating their dynamics as information processing. He applies methods from statistical physics, network science, time series analysis, and agent-based modeling to uncover universal principles across disciplines. His recent publications reveal a strong trend toward interdisciplinary research, particularly in econophysics, urban science, and computational history. He frequently uses topological data analysis (TDA), persistent homology, and network-based methods to study financial market crashes, urban gentrification, and knowledge evolution. His work bridges physics with social sciences, ecology, and digital humanities, demonstrating a consistent focus on identifying critical transitions and structural changes in complex systems. Scientific Awards: SPMS Excellence in Teaching Award (2008, 2010, 2011) Nanyang Award for Excellence in Teaching (2010) Science Mentorship Programme Outstanding Mentor Award (2010) Best Paper Award, International Conference on Culture and Computing (2013) Siew Ann Cheong has supervised numerous PhD, undergraduate, and high school research students, contributing significantly to academic mentoring. He has received multiple teaching awards, reflecting his commitment to education. His research is supported by interdisciplinary collaborations and grants, particularly in complex systems and data science. He has also contributed to computational history and heritage impact modeling through projects like SHIFT (Sustainable Heritage Impact Factor Theory). He leads a research group focused on complex systems, with former fellows and students now in academic and research positions worldwide. Labs and Research Groups: While no formal lab name is mentioned, his research is conducted within the Division of Physics and Applied Physics at NTU, involving a team of former and current students and fellows working on complex systems, econophysics, and network science. He collaborates with institutions such as the Complexity Science Hub, National University of Singapore, and international universities.
Jacques Déverchère is a Professor of Seismo-geology at the University of Brest (France), affiliated with the European University Institute of the Sea (IUEM) and the Geo-Ocean Joint Research Unit 6538. He holds dual deputy director roles as Deputy Director for Training at IUEM and Deputy Director of the ISblue University Research School, while coordinating the Hubert Curien Maghreb Partnership. His expertise spans seismicity analysis, tectonic inversion, salt tectonics, and paleoseismology with active fieldwork in Algeria, Liguria, Tanzania, and the Mediterranean Basin. Research focuses on continental margin evolution, crustal structure analysis, and geodynamic processes combining seismic data interpretation, numerical modeling, and field observations. Notable projects include the SPIRAL and SEFASILS cruises investigating Algerian and Ligurian basin structures. He also explores educational innovations using immersive VR for marine science training. Over 100+ publications span 1986–2024, emphasizing: (1) Tectonic inversion mechanisms in convergent margins (Algerian margin), (2) Messinian salt dynamics and their seismic implications, (3) Rift basin evolution in East Africa and South America, and (4) Machine learning applications to seismicity declustering. Active in international committees including CNRS-INSU, Hcéres, and ANR evaluations.
Lidija Zdravkovic is a Professor of Computational Geomechanics in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Imperial College London, Faculty of Engineering. She is also the Head of Geotechnics, leading research and academic activities in geotechnical engineering. Her work is deeply integrated with the Imperial College Finite Element Program (ICFEP) and the Imperial Centre for Geohazards, reflecting her strong commitment to advancing numerical methods in geotechnical applications. Her research interests are centered on computational geomechanics, with a focus on: Numerical analysis in geotechnical engineering Soil constitutive modeling and boundary conditions Advanced soil behavior, including unsaturated and thermo-hydro-mechanical (THM) coupling Offshore wind foundation systems Soil-structure interaction (SSI) and dynamic soil behavior She has pioneered developments in finite element solution algorithms and constitutive models for complex geotechnical problems. The recent publications (2023–2025) demonstrate a consistent trend in advancing numerical methodologies for geotechnical challenges, particularly in large deformation analysis (e.g., material point methods), uncertainty quantification, THM coupling, and offshore wind foundations. Her work bridges theoretical development with practical applications in infrastructure, energy, and environmental geotechnics. Scientific honors and professional contributions include: Delivered the Geotechnique Lecture in 2013 Editorial Board Member, Computers and Geotechnics (since 2010) Member, Geotechnique Advisory Panel (2003–2006) UK Representative, ISSMGE TC103 on Numerical Analysis Executive Committee Member, British Geotechnical Association (2010–2013) Lidija Zdravkovic has supervised numerous PhD and postdoctoral researchers, though specific names are not listed. She has secured research funding through major infrastructure projects such as Crossrail, Shard of Glass, Heathrow Terminal 5, and Rome Metro, where her numerical modeling expertise was applied. She co-authored two books on finite element analysis in geotechnical engineering and has over 100 academic publications. She is actively involved in the Geotechnics research group at Imperial, contributing to the development of the ICFEP code and mentoring the next generation of computational geomechanics researchers. Her lab focuses on high-fidelity numerical simulation of geotechnical systems under complex loading and environmental conditions.
Professor Olivier Dubrule is a distinguished academic in the Department of Earth Science & Engineering at Imperial College London's Faculty of Engineering. He holds a PhD in Geostatistics from Mines ParisTech (1981). His professional roles include Vice-President of Geosciences Training and Technical Image at Total in Pau, France, and a secondment at Imperial College since 2014. Education: PhD in Petroleum Geostatistics, Ecole des Mines de Paris (1981). His research focuses on geostatistical methods for petroleum geology and seismic data integration, emphasizing reservoir modeling and uncertainty quantification. He authored influential works like AAPG Course Notes #38 and SEG/EAGE course materials, translated into multiple languages. Honors include SEG/EAGE Distinguished Short Course Instructor (2003) and EAGE Presidency (2004-2005). His career spans industrial research leadership at Total and academic contributions at Imperial College.
Dr. Tobias Diehl is a Senior Scientist and Seismologist at the Swiss Seismological Service (SED) at ETH Zurich, leading the Seismotectonic Group since 2015. His research focuses on observational seismology, including seismic tomography, earthquake source analysis, and tectonic interpretation. He has held academic positions at ETH Zurich and international institutions, contributing to projects like the GANSSER seismic network in Bhutan and the AlpArray initiative. His work integrates advanced data analysis techniques with regional seismic monitoring to understand tectonic processes and earthquake hazards. Diehl teaches courses in crustal seismology and seismic tomography, and has authored over 50 peer-reviewed papers on topics ranging from Alpine tectonics to induced seismicity in geothermal systems.
Dr. Afifa Imtiaz is a scientific researcher at the Swiss Seismological Service (SED), ETH Zurich, since 2019. Her work focuses on earthquake hazard and risk assessment, particularly in Basel, Switzerland. She specializes in seismic ground motion analysis, site effects, and microzonation studies. Dr. Imtiaz holds a PhD in Engineering Seismology from Grenoble Alpes University (2015) and has extensive postdoctoral experience in France and Switzerland. Education: PhD in Engineering Seismology (2015), Grenoble Alpes University MSc in Engineering Seismology (2011), Grenoble Alpes University Research Interests: Dr. Imtiaz investigates spatial variability of ground motion in active seismic regions, focusing on basin effects and near-source dynamics. She develops numerical models to predict amplification and coherence patterns, with applications to urban risk assessment. Her work integrates geophysical data (e.g., shear-wave velocity profiles) with probabilistic risk frameworks. Key Projects: ARES PRD: Earthquake risk reduction in Haiti ANR EXAMIN: Ground motion variability for industrial infrastructure IMAGE: Geothermal exploration in sedimentary basins Basel Urban Seismic Risk Model: 3D geological-seismological integration Scientific Contributions: Her research bridges seismic hazard modeling with practical risk mitigation, particularly in urban environments. She has pioneered methods for combining ambient noise data with morphometric analyses to map resonance effects. Recent work focuses on scenario-based loss assessments and probabilistic amplification mapping.
Zohreh Askari serves as an Assistant Research Scientist in Geology at the Illinois State Geological Survey, part of the University of Illinois system. Her research focuses on geological carbon sequestration and basin analysis within the Illinois Basin, with particular expertise in the Cambrian-Ordovician sequence including the St. Peter Sandstone and Potosi Dolomite formations. Her primary research interests span Carbon Sequestration , Sedimentary Geology , and Hydrogeology , with specific focus on reservoir characterization, paleokarst systems, and structural controls on fluid flow. Current work emphasizes CO₂ storage feasibility, saline aquifer characterization, and risk assessment for geological storage projects. Analysis of her 34 scholarly outputs reveals strong emphasis on practical applications for carbon management, particularly through DOE-funded initiatives like CarbonSAFE. Her publications demonstrate expertise in integrating field observations with reservoir modeling for storage site assessment, with recurring themes in dolomite reservoir quality, sandstone storage complexes, and basin-scale fluid dynamics. Major collaborations include the U.S. Department of Energy on technical reports for the Wabash CarbonSAFE project, focusing on geologic analysis of reservoir intervals and confining units. Her work frequently involves multi-institutional teams addressing site-specific injection feasibility and long-term storage security. Research outputs include 16 conference contributions, 8 technical reports, 6 abstracts, and 4 peer-reviewed articles, with recent work highlighting practical applications for carbon management in Midwestern geological formations.
Riley James Balikian serves as an Assistant Research Scientist in Geophysics at the Illinois State Geological Survey, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. His work bridges geophysical methods with environmental and agricultural challenges through the Prairie Research Institute. His research spans geophysics, environmental geology, and agricultural science , emphasizing practical applications of ground penetrating radar, electrical resistivity tomography, and seismic data. Key foci include bedrock topography mapping in Illinois, geological creep hazards, and climate-agriculture interactions like CO 2 effects on cassava growth and water economics for avocado farming. Methodologically, he integrates destructive harvests with non-invasive scanning to address subsurface characterization and crop resilience. Analysis of recent publications reveals an interdisciplinary trajectory where geophysical techniques solve real-world environmental problems. His Illinois bedrock mapping work supports groundwater management, while agricultural studies connect geophysics with food security under climate stress—demonstrating how subsurface imaging can monitor root development and inform water policy. No scientific awards were documented in the source material. Publication records indicate collaborations with researchers like Ruiz-Vera, Ort, and Genskow across environmental science and geology, though specific grant funding or student advising details remain unreported. His work operates within the Illinois State Geological Survey's framework for applied earth science research, contributing to regional environmental monitoring and hazard assessment initiatives.
