The research group reconstructs tectonic movements as well as the deformation processes of rocks under stress and the resulting changes in shape over geological time periods through fieldwork, microscopic examinations, and experiments.

The group’s primary scientific interests are

  • Rheology of faults and shear zones in the crust and mantle lithosphere
  • Tectonics of the SW Pacific
  • Resilience to geo-hazards and sustainability of resources
  • Administration and analysis of large datasets
  • International research and exchange projects on climate change and resources within the Europe-wide network FORTHEM

The methods we commonly apply in our research include

  • Microstructural and texture analysis based on optical and electron microscopic datasets (EBSD, EPMA, TEM) and synchrotron analyses
  • Image analysis, particularly of 3D datasets (e.g., computer tomography, photogrammetry)
  • Scientific drilling
  • Fieldwork (mapping and sampling)
  • Computer-aided simulations
  • Experimental rock deformation

  • RESTLESS –
    InducEd SeismiciTy as a function of Lithology, Structure and Stress
  • DIVE-
    Drilling the Ivrea-Verbano Zone

Equipment and Methods

Our scanning electron microscope is equipped with

LE-BSE high-contrast backscatter detector, specifically for low acceleration voltage and thus higher resolution

ET secondary electron detector

In-lens SE and BSE for high resolution

EDS “Oxford Ultim Max”

EDS “Oxford Ultim Extreme”, windowless EDS detector for light elements and low acceleration voltage

EBSD “Oxford Symmetry 3”

Cathodoluminescence detector

Contact person: Friedrich Hawemann

Under construction

under construction

Summer semester

  • Tectonics

Winter Semester

  • Maps and Profiles

Summer semester

  • Endogenous Geology (field trip)
  • Exogenous Geology (field trip)
  • Geodynamics (field trip)
  • Dynamics of the Lithosphere

Winter semester

  • Microtectonics


under construction