PRE2023-Mobilization of sediments: Deformation mechanics, fluid flow and implications for large-scale tectonic processes (PID2022-139422NB-I00)

The scientific project MOS-DEF aims to decipher the mechanical interplay of fluids and rocks in Earth's crust. In particular, we want to investigate the effect of fluid pressure on the strength of large faults and on the mobilization of sediments. The multidisciplinary project combines field geology, experimental rock mechanics, and numerical modelling. Within this project, the student will focus on geodynamic numerical modelling of crustal fluid flow and its effects on the evolution of large-scale tectonic systems. The student will work on existing numerical codes, being able to implement and improve the existing formulations and compare results to tectonic systems. Therefore, experience in computational methods for geodynamics would be beneficial. At the ICM, the student will profit from being part of a diverse research team in a multidisciplinary project combining numerical modelling, experimental geomechanics, and field geology. We anticipate to include the student in all activities related to the project, including field trips to Taiwan, one of the sites of interest to test our hypothesis. Furthermore, a 3-month-long stay abroad is planned for the student to gain experience. We look for a motivated, independent student that is keen to learn new techniques in a fastly developing area of geoscience.