{"id":22798,"date":"2026-03-17T11:41:49","date_gmt":"2026-03-17T10:41:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.geowiss.uni-mainz.de\/institut-fuer-geowissenschaften\/geophysik-und-geodynamik\/"},"modified":"2026-05-06T12:49:10","modified_gmt":"2026-05-06T10:49:10","slug":"geophysik-und-geodynamik","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.geowiss.uni-mainz.de\/en\/institut-fuer-geowissenschaften\/geophysik-und-geodynamik\/","title":{"rendered":"Geophysics and Geodynamics"},"content":{"rendered":"\n \n<\/jgu-base-anchornavigation>\n \n<\/jgu-base-teaserbox><\/jgu-base-heading>\n\n
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The Geophysics and Geodynamics work group (led by Prof. Boris Kaus) focuses on understanding geological processes using numerical modeling as a central tool. Numerical modeling refers to the use of computers to solve mathematical equations that describe physical processes. A key advantage of this approach in the geosciences is the ability to investigate processes at different spatial and temporal scales. This is particularly relevant since the time periods under consideration often span geological dimensions, ranging from seconds to several hundred million years. Additionally, it provides insight into processes occurring deep within the Earth where direct access is not possible. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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We have developed a series of open-source software packages to simulate geological processes in 2D and 3D, as well as tools for predicting the chemical evolution of melting and crystallizing rocks. We use these tools to model diverse processes involving small- to large-scale deformation, the coupling between mechanical and thermal effects, and chemical reactions in geological contexts, with particular emphasis on magmatic and plate tectonic processes. Another important focus is the development of new numerical methods. We develop new forward and inverse modeling approaches that run on parallel high-performance computers, with recent emphasis on graphics processing units (GPUs). Additionally, our group has expertise in applied geoscience projects and collaborates with smartTectonics GmbH<\/a> (a company that emerged from the work group). <\/p>\n\n

Training the next generation of geoscientists in fundamental as well as computational methods is very important to us. In the bachelor’s program, courses in programming and geostatistics provide a solid foundation in scientific computing, data analysis, and numerical thinking, with particular emphasis (in recent years) on the Julia programming language. In the various master’s degree programs, students delve deeper into physical processes such as rock deformation, flow in reservoirs, and geodynamic processes. The important numerical methods for these are the focus. This combination of theory and practical application provides students with a solid foundation in these areas. Students who wish to specialize in geodynamic modeling or scientific computing are invited to contact the work group directly. The broad training through courses and final theses prepares graduates for diverse career paths, including positions in geothermal energy, engineering firms, geological surveys, hydrogeology, data science, and academic research. <\/p>\n\n

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