Computational Geodynamics for Hazard Assessment

Computational Geodynamics use a variety of numerical models to better understand the dynamic processes in the Earth’s interior and on its surface. Numerical models allow to address scientific questions, which are not directly accessible by experiments

Research Focus

In Computational Geodynamics we focus on:

TECTONIC STRESS & SEISMICITY

Nonlinear block-and-fault dynamics of the lithosphere and earthquakes. Tectonic stress analysis and modeling. Seismic hazard and risk assessment. Applications: Caucasus, Tibet-Himalayan, SE-Carpathians (Vrancea), Apennines.

 

VOLCANIC FLOWS

Reconstruction of thermal and dynamic characteristics of volcanic lava from surface thermal measurements. Numerical modelling of lava flow with a ruptured crust. Two- and three-dimensional time-dependent and steady state modeling.

 

MANTLE DYNAMICS

Thermal plume evolution. Mantle-lithosphere interaction. Lithosphere-asthenosphere delamination. Continental collision. Pacific plate subduction and its evolution.

SEDIMENTARY BASINS

Mechanisms of basin evolution. Geothermal evolution. Salt tectonics and dynamic reconstruction of salt structures. Link between mantle dynamics and basin evolution. Application: North American, East European, and Siberian basins; Pricaspian salt basin and Gulf of Mexico.

 

COMPUTATIONAL GEODYNAMICS & METHODS

Development of methodology and software for geodynamic modeling using finite element methods, finite difference methods, finite volume methods, direct and inverse methods. Data assimilation. Data-driven numerical modeling.

 

RISK AND SUSTAINABILITY

Studies of related to disaster risk reduction, risk assessment, preparedness, and the role of science in risk reduction. Science policy and diplomacy. History of Earth and space sciences.


Responsible Scientists

Alik Ismail-Zadeh

Natalya Zeinalova