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Marie ViolayView profile

Associate Professor

• Rock Mechanics
• Rock Physics
• Fault and Earthquake Mechanics
• +1 more

Marie Violay is an Associate Professor at the Laboratory of Experimental Rock Mechanics (LEMR) within the School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering (ENAC) at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL). She also contributes to teaching and PhD program committees across multiple EPFL divisions. Specializes in rock mechanics, earthquake dynamics, and hydro-mechanical couplings Leads experimental studies on fluid-induced seismicity and reservoir deformation Research Focus : Investigates how pore fluid pressure variations affect rock strength, fault behavior, and permeability evolution. Her work spans from brittle fracture mechanics to ductile deformation processes under geothermal conditions, with applications to carbon storage, earthquake mitigation, and volcanic hazard assessment. Article Trends : Her recent publications examine stress biaxiality effects on fracture energy (2025), alteration impacts on geothermal reservoirs (2025), permeability changes in volcanic rocks (2024), and fundamental studies of water weakening mechanisms in sedimentary rocks (2024-2021). The work combines laboratory experiments, microstructural analysis, and numerical modeling. Labs & Collaborations : Coordinates the LEMR laboratory at EPFL. Collaborates with European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Freie Universität Berlin, and industry partners like Emch&Berger AG. Leads PhD committee work in the EDME Doctoral School .

Kai GongView profile

Assistant Professor

• Sustainable Infrastructure Materials
• Environmental Sustainability
• Materials Science
• +4 more

Dr. Kai Gong is an Assistant Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Rice University, with affiliations at the Rice Advanced Materials Institute and Ken Kennedy Institute. His research focuses on sustainable infrastructure materials, environmental sustainability, and materials science. He holds a Ph.D. in Civil & Environmental Engineering and Materials Science from Princeton University, an MEngSci from Monash University (Australia), and dual B.S. degrees from Monash University and Central South University (China). Research Interests: Development of durable, sustainable infrastructure materials Waste encapsulation and conversion to value-added products Carbon mineralization and utilization Advanced characterization techniques (synchrotron/neutron scattering) Data-driven modeling and atomistic simulations Notable Awards: 2023 Le Chatelier Medal (Cement and Concrete Research) 2024 Giatec Award for Best Paper in Sustainability Walbridge Fund Graduate Award (2019) His work integrates computational methods (e.g., molecular dynamics) with experimental techniques to address decarbonization challenges in infrastructure. The Gong Research Group actively seeks motivated researchers for opportunities in sustainable materials innovation.

Peter ShearerView profile

Professor

• Seismology
• Earthquake Physics
• Mantle Discontinuities
• +7 more

Peter Shearer is a Professor of Geophysics at the Institute of Geophysics and Planetary Physics , affiliated with the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California, San Diego. His research focuses on observational seismology, mantle discontinuities, earthquake location methods, source properties, and seismicity patterns. Education: B.S. in Geology and Geophysics, Yale University (1978) Ph.D. in Geophysics, UCSD Scripps Institution (1986) Research Interests Shearer's work uses large seismic datasets to study Earth's interior structure, particularly mantle transition zones, lithospheric discontinuities, and earthquake triggering mechanisms. His methods include waveform cross-correlation relocation, SS precursor analysis, and seismic wave scattering studies. Scientific Contributions His publications span 40+ years, with recent works analyzing aftershock migration, mantle discontinuities, and fault weakening. Key themes include Global mantle imaging using teleseismic data High-resolution fault zone seismicity Deep Earth structure from scattered waves Scientific Awards AGU Fellow (1999) SIO Outstanding Teaching Award (2003) Lehmann Medal (AGU, 2020) National Academy of Sciences member (2009)

John F. RudgeView profile

Professor

• Geophysics
• Geochemistry
• Petrology
• +4 more

John F. Rudge is a Professor of Geodynamics at the Bullard Laboratories, Department of Earth Sciences, University of Cambridge , and a Fellow and Dean of Trinity College. His research focuses on the dynamics of Earth's interior, including mantle convection, magma transport, and the geochemical evolution of the planet. He employs continuum mechanics, numerical analysis, and statistical methods to address questions about melt dynamics, mantle heterogeneity, and the surface expressions of geophysical processes. Education includes a mathematics undergraduate degree and a PhD in Earth Sciences and Applied Mathematics from Cambridge. He held postdoctoral positions at institutions like ETH Zürich, Yale, and Columbia University before joining Cambridge as a University Lecturer in 2010 and being promoted to Professor in 2022. Key research areas include: Transport of melts and volatiles in the mantle Evolution of Earth's interior from accretion to present Dynamic topography and inner core dynamics Publications span over two decades, with recent works addressing melt rheology, mantle mineralogy, and interdisciplinary applications in oncology. He has supervised numerous PhD students and postdocs, including David Rees Jones, Isarapong Eksinchol, and Laura Alisic. Awards include the Philip Leverhulme Prize and Geological Society President’s Award. Teaching responsibilities include courses on geophysics, magma dynamics, and supervisions in Natural Sciences at Trinity College. Research tools include finite element modeling and collaborations with computational scientists.

Bonadonna CostanzaView profile

Professor

• Volcanic Ash Dispersal
• Volcanic Risk Assessment
• Physical Volcanology
• +2 more

Costanza Bonadonna is a Full Professor at the University of Geneva (since 2019), specializing in volcanic hazards and Earth sciences. She holds a PhD supported by the European Commission (1998–2000) and has held academic positions across institutions including the University of South Florida and University of Hawaii. Her research focuses on volcanic ash dispersal modeling, risk assessment, and physical volcanology, with notable contributions to understanding tephra deposits and eruption dynamics. Bonadonna has received prestigious awards such as the 2020 AGU Volcanology presidency and the International Galileo Galilei Award. She leads the CERG-C (Centre for Environmental Risk Studies) and has organized major international workshops on volcanic risk and ash dispersal. Her work integrates numerical modeling, field investigations, and geophysical observations to enhance volcanic hazard forecasting and community resilience strategies. Research Grants: 2019–2023: SNSF Probabilistic volcanic risk framework 2018–2021: H2020 NEWTON-g and EUROVOLC networks 2017–2020: SNSF Gravitational instabilities in volcanic clouds Awards: 2020 President elect of AGU Volcanology Division Galileo Galilei Award (2020) Outstanding Woman in Science (2004, GSA) She has advised numerous international projects and collaborates with global institutions through initiatives like MeMoVolc and NEMOH. Her research bridges geophysical observations with computational models to address multi-hazard scenarios and improve disaster preparedness.

Attila BalázsView profile

Lecturer

• Geophysics
• Tectonics
• Sedimentary Geology
• +5 more

Dr. Attila Balázs is a Senior Researcher and Lecturer at ETH Zurich's Institute of Geophysics, affiliated with the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences. His research integrates numerical modeling with geological data to investigate tectonic-surface process interactions, focusing on orogen-basin systems and continental deformation. Key contributions include studies on back-arc basins, transform faults, and the Tibetan Plateau's uplift mechanisms. He holds the 2020 Flinn-Hart Award and an ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Fellowship. His work emphasizes geodynamic processes such as mantle delamination, slab dynamics, and crustal deformation patterns. Balázs collaborates with the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Group and maintains an active research portfolio spanning field observations, seismic analysis, and 3D numerical simulations. Research Foci: Tectonic modeling, basin evolution, mantle dynamics, and crustal rheology Key Regions: Pannonian Basin, Tibetan Plateau, Adriatic Sea, Himalayas His articles highlight interdisciplinary approaches to understanding continental and oceanic tectonics, with recent emphasis on transform fault mechanics, triple junction dynamics, and the interplay between tectonics and climate.

Keith D. KoperView profile

Professor

• Geophysics
• Seismology
• Array Seismology
• +12 more

Keith D. Koper is a Professor in the Department of Geology & Geophysics at the University of Utah and serves as Director of the University of Utah Seismograph Stations (UUSS). He is also the editor-in-chief of The Seismic Record . His work integrates academic research with operational seismic monitoring and public safety initiatives across Utah and the Intermountain West. Education: PhD in Geophysics, Washington University, 1998 BA in Math, Geology, and ISP, Northwestern University, 1993 Dr. Koper's research focuses on array seismology, forensic seismology, deep Earth structure (especially the inner core), earthquake rupture imaging, ambient seismic noise, and seismic hazards in the Intermountain West, including mining-induced and urban earthquakes. His work combines observational seismology with advanced signal processing and machine learning techniques to improve detection, discrimination, and imaging capabilities. He has led or contributed to major projects involving the Wasatch Front, Yellowstone, and regional seismic networks. His recent research emphasizes machine learning for earthquake detection, high-resolution relocation of aftershock sequences (e.g., Magna 2020, Bluffdale 2019), microseism generation in lakes, and fine-scale imaging of the Earth's inner core using seismic reflections. His studies often involve interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly with mining engineering and geodesy. Dr. Koper's research has been consistently funded by federal and state agencies, including the National Science Foundation (NSF), U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Department of Energy (DOE), Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), and the Utah Department of Public Safety. His publications reflect a strong trend toward integrating computational methods with traditional seismological analysis to tackle complex problems in both natural and induced seismicity. Scientific Service and Leadership: Editor-in-Chief, The Seismic Record Director, University of Utah Seismograph Stations Secretary, U.S. Air Force Seismic Review Panel Former Chair and Vice-Chair, Utah Seismic Safety Commission Dr. Koper mentors graduate students in seismology and geophysics, including recent advisees Sean Hutchings and Alysha Armstrong. His research group actively engages in both fundamental and applied seismological research, with strong ties to national labs such as Sandia. The group is involved in deploying portable seismic arrays, analyzing large datasets, and developing new algorithms for event detection and classification. The University of Utah Seismograph Stations, under his leadership, plays a critical role in monitoring seismicity in Utah and Yellowstone, producing real-time earthquake information, ShakeMaps, and public outreach materials. The station also contributes to national and international efforts in nuclear test monitoring and volcanic hazard assessment.

Brandon SchmandtView profile

Professor

• Seismology
• Tectonics
• Volcanology
• +4 more

Brandon Schmandt is a Professor in the Department of Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences at Rice University, where he leads research using seismology to investigate Earth systems. His work integrates interdisciplinary approaches, data science, and numerical modeling to study tectonic processes, magmatic systems, and environmental interactions. His educational background includes a PhD in Geological Sciences from the University of Oregon (2011) and a BA in Environmental Studies from Warren Wilson College (2006). Dr. Schmandt's research focuses on seismology, tectonics, volcanology, and surface processes , with emphasis on seismic imaging of subsurface structures. His group employs innovative time-series analysis and field projects to resolve geologic history and contemporary Earth dynamics, particularly examining fault zones, magmatic reservoirs, and deep convective processes. Key methodologies include dense seismic arrays and machine learning applications. Analysis of his recent publications (2023-2025) reveals dominant trends in seismic event discrimination (earthquakes vs. explosions), magmatic system imaging (Yellowstone, Cascades), and global mantle structure studies. There is strong emphasis on induced seismicity, machine learning applications, and high-resolution imaging of Earth's discontinuities using dense arrays. His distinguished honors include: Aki Award of the AGU Seismology Section GSA Donath Medal AGU Macelwane Medal Body Dr. Schmandt directs an active research group conducting field projects across diverse settings including the Raton Basin, Yellowstone, Antarctica, and the Caribbean. While specific student advisees and grant details aren't provided in available materials, his group's work involves collaborative data collection, advanced computational modeling, and development of novel seismic analysis techniques applicable to both natural and anthropogenic seismic sources. The research program maintains focus on magmatic systems beneath volcanic regions, induced seismicity mechanisms, and global mantle structure using dense node arrays and interdisciplinary approaches to address fundamental questions in Earth dynamics.

Paul A KappView profile

Professor

• Continental Tectonics
• Regional Geology
• Structural-Stratigraphic Analysis
• +4 more

Paul A Kapp is a Professor in the Department of Geosciences at the University of Arizona. His expertise spans continental tectonics, regional geology, structural-stratigraphic analysis, and eolian processes, with a focus on Asia and Cordilleran orogenic systems. Fieldwork includes geologic mapping, kinematic analysis of structures, and stratigraphic section measurements across Precambrian to Quaternary rock types. University: University of Arizona Department: Geosciences Email: pkapp@arizona.edu Research interests emphasize quantifying timing and rates of tectonic processes via geochronology and thermochronology. Key themes include Tibetan Plateau uplift, lithospheric dynamics in collisional zones, and eolian-landscape interactions. His work integrates field observations with analytical methods to understand orogenic plateau formation and paleoelevation reconstruction. Recent publications highlight tectonic-climate feedbacks, mantle melting mechanisms in Tibet, and crustal deformation in the North American Cordillera. Articles often address geodynamic modeling, basin evolution, and isotopic dating applications, reflecting a multidisciplinary approach to orogenic and sedimentary systems.

Zachary E. RossView profile

Professor

• Seismology
• Geophysics
• Machine Learning
• +7 more

Zachary E. Ross is a Professor of Geophysics at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) and holds the William H. Hurt Scholar distinction since 2021. His research integrates machine learning, computational mathematics, and seismology to analyze earthquakes and fault zones using large seismic datasets. Education B.S., University of California, Davis (2009) M.S., California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (2011) Ph.D., University of Southern California (2016) His research focuses on high-resolution imaging of fault zones, understanding earthquake sequences in space and time, and applying artificial intelligence to seismic data analysis. He develops scalable algorithms for waveform inversion, ground-motion synthesis, and real-time seismic monitoring. Recent publications highlight his work on neural operators for wave propagation, AI-driven seismicity analysis, and induced earthquake dynamics. He teaches advanced courses including Ge 264 – Machine Learning in Geophysics and Ge 271 – Dynamics of Seismicity . Scientific Awards William H. Hurt Scholar (2021–present)

Lea ScharffView profile

Researcher

• Volcanology
• Geophysics
• Remote Sensing
• +3 more

Dr. Lea Scharff is a Staff Scientist in Volcanology at the University of Hamburg, affiliated with the Center for Earth System Research and Sustainability (CEN) and the Department of Geophysics. She holds a PhD in Volcanology from the University of Hamburg (2012) and a Diplom in Geophysics (2006). Her research focuses on volcanic ash cloud modeling, volcano monitoring systems, and Doppler radar technology development for eruption dynamics analysis. She leads the development of software for volcano radar data processing and collaborates with Metek GmbH on radar innovations. Education: 2006: Diplom in Geophysics, University of Hamburg 2012: PhD in Volcanology, University of Hamburg Research Interests: Her work emphasizes understanding volcanic systems' physics to improve hazard mitigation. Key areas include Doppler radar analysis of eruption plumes, interdisciplinary data integration, and real-time monitoring tools. She investigates volcanic ash transport, pyroclastic density currents, and eruption mechanisms using radar, thermography, and numerical models. Grants & Projects: Lead developer of volcano radar software under DFG-funded projects Collaborator on Sakurajima volcano electrification studies (Japan) Member of MeMoVolc international workshop on volcanic data integration Labs/Teams: Physical Volcanology Group at the University of Hamburg Institute of Geophysics. Active in field installations of radar networks at volcanoes like Colima (Mexico) and Turrialba (Costa Rica).

• Geophysics
• Seismology
• Geodesy
• +3 more

Walter Szeliga is a Professor and Department Chair at Central Washington University. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Colorado (2010). His research focuses on seismology, GPS, and InSAR technologies, with emphasis on earthquake early warning systems, crustal deformation monitoring, and natural hazards mitigation. Dr. Szeliga leads efforts in integrating real-time geodetic data streams for disaster response and has contributed to the development of ShakeAlert® systems. His work spans global geophysical networks, ionospheric perturbations, and paleotsunami studies. Key research interests include: Real-time GNSS applications for seismic monitoring Crustal deformation analysis using InSAR and GPS Earthquake source characterization through multi-method approaches Historical seismotectonic reconstructions Disaster forecasting and early warning system optimization Recent studies highlight advancements in trapping atmospheric lee waves detection via GNSS, volcanic plume dynamics during the 2022 Tonga eruption, and long-term paleotsunami records in Chile. His work bridges geophysical instrumentation with computational modeling to address critical questions in tectonic processes and hazard assessment. Scientific contributions include 50+ peer-reviewed articles on topics ranging from Cascadia subduction zone dynamics to global navigation satellite system innovations. His research has implications for civil infrastructure resilience, space weather impacts, and international geohazard collaboration frameworks.

Kyle BradleyView profile

Research Professor

• Tectonics
• Seismology
• Geodesy
• +7 more

Kyle Bradley is a research-focused academic affiliated with the College of Engineering at Cornell University, specifically within the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences. His work centers on active tectonics, earthquake geology, and geodetic modeling, with extensive fieldwork and satellite-based analysis in Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia and Myanmar. University: Cornell University School: College of Engineering Department: Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Academic Rank: Research Professor His research interests lie primarily in understanding the mechanics of active fault systems, subduction zones, and their associated hazards. He investigates how tectonic and volcanic processes interact, particularly in regions like the Flores Thrust and Sumatran Fault Zone. His methodologies include GPS and InSAR geodesy, photogrammetry, drone-based mapping, and seismic source modeling to constrain fault geometries, slip rates, and rupture behaviors. The trends in his recent publications indicate a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary geophysics, combining structural geology, seismology, and geochemistry to assess seismic and tsunami hazards. His work often integrates high-resolution geospatial data with field observations to develop models of crustal deformation and earthquake cycles. Although no formal scientific awards are listed in the provided content, his consistent publication record in high-impact journals reflects significant scholarly contributions. There is no mention of formal grant funding, but his research scope suggests involvement in federally or institutionally supported projects. Kyle Bradley has not listed any students in the provided information, but his role as a research professor implies potential mentorship of graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. His work contributes to understanding earthquake triggering mechanisms, such as the role of wet rice cultivation in landslides during the 2018 Palu earthquake, demonstrating applied relevance to disaster risk reduction. He is actively involved in developing regional tectonic models using dense GNSS networks, focal mechanism catalogs, and bathymetric data. His research teams likely include collaborators from international institutions, particularly in Indonesia and Southeast Asia, given the geographic focus of his studies. Labs or research groups associated with his work may utilize geospatial analysis, satellite remote sensing, and computational modeling of tectonic processes.

Marcus GaryView profile

Academic

• Karst Hydrogeology
• Groundwater Management
• Environmental Geology
• +5 more

Marcus Gary is a Research Associate Professor at the Bureau of Economic Geology, Jackson School of Geosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, and Principal Geoscientist at the Edwards Aquifer Authority. His expertise lies in karst hydrogeology, focusing on karst processes and their implications for natural resource management. He holds a Ph.D. in Hydrogeology (UT Austin, 2009) and a B.S. from the same institution (2001). His doctoral work on Sistema Zacatón, a deep underwater cave system in Mexico, integrated geophysics, geochemistry, and NASA-funded DEPTHX AUV technology to map cave structures. Education: Ph.D. in Hydrogeology, UT Austin (2009) B.S., UT Austin (2001) A.S. in Marine Technology, College of Oceaneering (1994) Research Interests: Karst aquifer dynamics Groundwater-surface water interactions Volcanogenic speleogenesis Edwards and Trinity Aquifer management Geophysical and geospatial techniques in hydrogeology His work spans academic research, government service (USGS), and consulting. He teaches Applied Karst Hydrogeology at UT Austin and leads field operations for the Edwards Aquifer Authority. Notable projects include dye tracing studies in Central Texas, springhead delineation, and volcanic influences on karst systems. His research often emphasizes environmental policy and sustainable groundwater management. Labs/Teams: Edwards Aquifer Authority Field Operations, DEPTHX AUV Project Team, Jackson School of Geosciences Hydrogeology Group.

Chenguang SunView profile

Assistant Professor

• Deep Volatile Cycling
• Planetary Magmatism
• Thermobarometry
• +5 more

Chenguang Sun is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at the Jackson School of Geosciences, University of Texas at Austin. His research focuses on understanding the thermal and chemical evolution of Earth and other rocky planets, emphasizing volatile cycling, magma dynamics, and planetary habitability. He employs experimental petrology, thermobarometry, and geochemical modeling to decode planetary processes. Key research areas include deep volatile cycling, magmatic differentiation, and planetary differentiation mechanisms. He has pioneered methods such as Mg-REE coupled geospeedometry to study crustal formation rates and mantle dynamics. His work bridges laboratory experiments with field observations to address questions about Earth’s interior-surface interactions and planetary habitability. Education: Doctorate in Geochemistry/Petrology (not explicitly stated, inferred from career trajectory) Affiliations: Jackson School of Geosciences; Mineralogical Society of America Fellow (2021) Dr. Sun’s recent publications explore topics like CO2-rich melt thermobarometry, nitrogen delivery via giant impacts, and kimberlite magmatism. His awards include the MSA Award (2021) and AGU Outstanding Student Paper Award (2012). He advises graduate student Lucia G. Bellino and teaches advanced courses in thermodynamics of geological processes and solid Earth dynamics. His lab develops novel petrological tools for interpreting magmatic and metamorphic processes, with a focus on volatile cycling’s impact on planetary evolution. Ongoing projects include studying mantle-derived melt systems and their role in Earth’s carbon budget.