Research Group Geophysics - Geodynamics

We study the dynamics of the lithosphere/asthenosphere system in a variety of tectonic environments and how other more superficial processes such as erosion and sediment transport influence them. In particular, we strongly focus on understanding the tectonic evolution of passive rifted margins and how the formation of oceanic crust starts. We link on-shore and offshore observations of the crustal and lithospheric structure of these margins, with their tectonic plate context to answer questions regarding their tectonic structure, subsidence, fluid flow and their potential for natural resources.

Working Area

Passive, active continental margins, and continental interiors. We have particularly focused on passive continental margins (West-Iberia Newfoundland, Australia-Antarctica, Brazil-Africa, South China Sea), but also worked on geodynamic problems in continental interiors (Africa, South America, Europe, North America) and active margins (Andean margin).

Methods

We use wide-angle and multichannel seismic data from margins in combination with numerical modeling of their dynamics. Numerical models are developed in house, using finite element approximations. We also develop inversions of topography and gravity data to gain an understanding of the lateral variations in the lithosphere’s strength