Geophysics and Geodynamics
The Geophysics and Geodynamics Group (headed by Prof. Boris Kaus) at the Institute of Geosciences at the University of Mainz is working on understanding how geological processes work, from the grain-scale to the scale of a planet. We predominantly do this with the help of mathematical and numerical models, for which we develop new approaches. Ongoing research projects include lithospheric-scale shear localization, the coupling between melt migration and lithosphere deformation, the formation of fold-and-thrust belts and salt tectonics, the coupling between erosion, lithosphere dynamics and mantle flow, the dynamics of subduction zones as well as the development of new software that runs on high-performance parallel computing systems.
In addition, part of the research group focusses on applied geophysical methods such as magnetotellurics, seismoelectromagnetics, gravimetry and DC geoelectrical tomography. We also have expertise on deep and shallow geothermal energy and thermohydraulic monitoring (by the Institute of Geothermal Resource Management).
There are many possibilities for students, postdocs and advanced researchers to take part in ongoing research projects (see open positions).
News:
-
New high-perfomance cluster "Mogon" was installed at JGU. Press coverage.
- Group modelled the formation of the Zagros mountains. press coverage.
- Marcel Thielmann received an Outstanding Student Poster award for his work on subduction initiation at the 2011 EGU assembly.
- Boris received the Arne Richter Young Scientist Award at the 2011 EGU assembly.
- Boris received an ERC Starting Grant.