معرفی
Dr. André Niemeijer is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Geosciences at Utrecht University, specializing in Experimental Rock Deformation within the Earth Sciences department. He works at the Earth Simulation Lab and leads the Experimental rock deformation/HPT group as part of the Research Programme in Earth Sciences Utrecht (DES/IVAU).
His research focuses on fault and earthquake mechanics, including the evolution of fault strength over long and short timescales, fault permeability, and the effects of fluids. His expertise spans crustal and upper mantle conditions, examining physical properties of fault rocks and fluid-rock interactions through laboratory experiments and numerical modeling.
Dr. Niemeijer currently leads an NWO-funded project titled "How hot do faults get" within the DEEPNL research program. He is also involved in multiple research initiatives examining laboratory earthquakes through acoustic emission sensing, stress effects on mineral reactions, the Median Tectonic Line in Japan, and an exhumed fault in New Zealand representing the upper part of the Hikurangi subduction zone.
His recent publications demonstrate expertise in fault gouge behavior, earthquake nucleation, and rock deformation under various stress conditions, with significant implications for understanding seismic hazards and earthquake triggering mechanisms.
Scientific awards and recognition include:
- ERC Starting Grant 2012/2013
- NWO-Vidi: Slip and earthquake nucleation in experimental and numerical simulations (SEISMIC)
- 2012 EGU Division Outstanding Young Scientist Award
Dr. Niemeijer actively supervises students and teaches MSc courses on Mechanisms of deformation and transport in rocks, Modelling of Crust and Lithosphere deformation, and leads field courses. His research has received significant media attention, particularly regarding earthquakes in Groningen, Netherlands, with features in NRC Handelsblad and De Wereld Leert Door.
He has presented his work at major conferences including multiple AGU Fall Meetings, the Geological Society of America Annual Meeting, and has collaborated with institutions such as Delft University of Technology and Deltares.