The work group was newly established in August 2023 and is led by Junior Professor Dr. Miriam Christina Reiss. Seismology is the science of passive measurement methods for exploring the subsurface using seismic waves and represents the largest share of geophysical methods. These are recorded by seismometers and can be analysed using a wide range of methods. This makes it possible, for example, to locate earthquakes, determine the thickness of the Earth’s crust, analyse deformation of mantle and crustal rocks, resolve the structure of, for example, magma chambers, or observe the signals of volcanic eruptions.
A seismological experiment typically involves installing several measurement stations within a defined study area. Each station consists of a seismometer installed in the ground, a data logger, a power supply (typically a battery and solar panel), and a GPS antenna for precise time referencing. These stations continuously record ground motion and capture a wide range of seismic signals. These include both natural sources such as earthquakes and magmatic processes, as well as anthropogenic and environmental disturbances, for example from traffic, precipitation, or oceanic background noise. The data obtained make it possible to locate earthquake hypocentres, analyse subsurface structure—for instance to identify magma chambers or determine crustal thickness—and to investigate the seismic activity of volcanic systems in detail.
Beyond volcanic seismology, we also focus on analysing deeper structures such as the crust–mantle boundary and mantle flow. To this end, we use receiver function and shear-wave splitting methods. This allows us to gain direct insight into the dynamics of the Earth’s interior.
Another focus of the work group is the analysis of processes that arise during the operation of geothermal plants.
In Mainz, the bachelor’s programme in Geosciences first offers a general overview of geophysics. In addition, the master’s degree programme in Geosciences offers courses that address the fundamentals of seismology. Practical aspects such as scientific programming and data analysis are also taught. Students who wish to specialise in volcanic seismology or geophysics are welcome to contact Junior Professor Dr. Miriam Christina Reiss. The courses and final theses offered provide broad knowledge that prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities, e.g. as a data analyst, for work in engineering consultancies and state agencies, in the field of geothermal energy, unexploded ordnance detection, and research.
- Advanced sub-surface Earth imaging for New Zealand’s volcanic and geothermal future, Catalyst Grant, Royal Soceity of New Zealand, together with Dr. Finnigan Illsely-Kemp, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand
- TRIGGER – Fracture formation and permeability changes in geothermal reservoirs caused by thermally induced stress changes, collaborative project, federal ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE)
- Seismic and Infrasound Networks to study the volcano Oldoinyo Lengai (SEISVOL), Research grant, (DFG, 2018–2023)
Equipment
Broadband seismometer
Compact broadband stations are used for many applications in modern seismology. The Volcanic Seismology work group has acquired 16 seismic stations consisting of a Nanometrics Trillium Compact seismometer combined with data loggers such as Pegasus andCentaur. The Trillium Compact is a high-resolution broadband seismometer that enables precise recording of ground motion thanks to its wide frequency range (typically 120 s–100 Hz), low self-noise, and high sensitivity.
Thanks to its compact design, low power consumption, and easy installation, the sensor is suitable both for temporary field experiments, including direct burial or operation in humid environments, and for permanent measurement stations.
Data acquisition is carried out using modern, energy-efficient data loggers. The Pegasus logger is designed in particular for portable, quickly deployable stations and enables autonomous operation with very low power consumption, while the Centaur logger is used as a more powerful alternative with an extended range of functions, a higher channel count, and integrated networking and real-time data transmission.
Together, these components form a robust, flexible, high-resolution measurement station that is suitable both for temporary experiments with high station density and for long-term monitoring networks.
Contact: Junior Professor Dr. Miriam Christina Reiss
Seismic nodes are compact, self-contained instruments used for temporary recording of ground motion. Unlike traditional seismic stations, they combine the sensor, data storage, power supply, and time reference in a single, usually rugged housing. Due to their small size and easy installation, they can be deployed in large numbers and at high spatial density.
They are typically used for time-limited experiments, for example for high-resolution imaging of subsurface structure or for detailed investigation of seismic activity. After the measurement campaign is completed, the devices are collected again and the recorded data are read out and analysed.
Contact: Junior Professor Miriam Christina Reiss
