Taco Broerse

Dr. ir. Taco Broerse is a Researcher at Utrecht University since 2019, affiliated with the Faculty of Geosciences and the Structural Geology & Electron Microscopy group. Prior, he held postdoctoral and PhD positions at Delft University of Technology (2007–2015), earning an MSc in Aerospace Engineering (2007) and a PhD in Megathrust Earthquakes: Study of Fault Slip and Stress Relaxation Using Satellite Gravity Observations (2014).

• Geophysics
• Geodynamics
• Analogue Modelling
• Subduction Zones
• Lithosphere Rheology
• Earthquake Cycle

Broerse's research integrates geodetic observations (GNSS, InSAR, satellite gravity) with geophysical models and analogue experiments to study Earth's surface deformation, particularly around subduction zones and deglaciated regions. His work addresses how time-dependent upper mantle strength influences slip deficit estimation and surface deformation rates, with applications to megathrust earthquake cycles and Antarctic ice mass balance.

His 15 most recent articles span topics like slow slip events in Sulawesi, strain partitioning in fault systems, and geodetic signatures of subduction zones. These works emphasize subduction dynamics, lithosphere tearing, and satellite geodesy, reflecting his focus on nonlinear rheology and tectonic processes.

Broerse's current affiliations include Utrecht University and a visiting researcher role at Delft University of Technology. His methodologies combine digital imagery analysis for strain mapping and state space filtering to reconcile satellite data with models. Collaborative projects involve STEPs (Subduction-Transform Edge Propagators), megathrust cycles, and Antarctic ice dynamics.