Coen Hofstede

Coen Hofstede is a senior researcher at the Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research in Bremerhaven, Germany. He holds a position in the Glaciology department, specializing in the application of seismic methods to study ice dynamics, subglacial hydrology, and ice-ocean interactions. His work focuses on developing advanced seismic surveying techniques, including vibroseis and fiber-optic seismology, to investigate the structural and geophysical properties of ice sheets, ice streams, and ice shelves. Key responsibilities include active seismic surveying for subglacial material identification and glaciological interpretation of survey data.

Research interests center on the dynamics of ice streams, subglacial hydrology, and ice-ocean interactions. Hofstede’s methods involve high-quality seismic data acquisition using streamers and seismic vibrators, alongside cutting-edge technologies like airborne and borehole seismic systems. His contributions span studies of the Northeast Greenland Ice Stream (NEGIS), Antarctic ice shelves, and Greenland’s Store Glacier.

Publications emphasize seismic imaging, glacial deformation mechanisms, and environmental seismology applications. Notable work includes a 2025 Science paper on seismic cascades in ice streams and 2023 studies on fiber-optic seismology in NEGIS. Hofstede collaborates internationally, with projects involving the Ronne Ice Shelf and Ekström Ice Shelf. His research bridges geophysics and glaciology, contributing to understanding ice sheet stability and climate impacts.