My group works mostly on two topics: (1) earthquake and fault mechanics and (2) surface processes, primarily through the lens of geophysical observations and modelling.
In fault mechanics studies, we often seek to understand why some fault slip slowly and steadily while others slip quickly---in earthquakes. We probe the subtleties of seismograms and geodetic data to observe the dynamics of frictional slip, and then model the slip evolution to assess what might be happening in detail on the fault. Ultimately---over decades---our goal is to develop robust understanding and as much of our understanding as possible to forecast earthquakes, whether natural or human-induced.
We also use the subtleties of seismic and geodetic data to find new ways to approach processes on the surface of the Earth. For instance, we probe borehole deformation data to observe variations in rainfall and fluid flow. We model the mechanics of slip at the base of landslides. And we observe the (large!) seismic signals produced by ocean waves. As our analysis techniques improve, seismology and geodesy will be able to a much wider variety of signals than were examined a few years ago, opening the door for interesting and creative exploration on many more near-surface topics.
In all of my research, I like to take a hypothesis-driven approach as much as possible. We often identify specific, important questions and then develop new approaches to answer them. Or we use approaches from the signal processing and machine learning communities. Often a careful reorganization of the data allows you to see far more than a simple inspection would. But simple observations are important too, and it's always important to have fun and explore.
Students working with me could explore a variety of topics in earthquake mechanics via observations and/or modelling, from determining how earthquakes propagate and why they stop to building some details of earthquake mechanics into hazard forecasting. Or they could pursue a variety of near-surface observations, from ocean waves to river flow or landslide mechanics. Often along with other supervisors.
Following a PhD in these areas, you could take a variety of paths, from academia to near-surface geophysics, hydrology, energy, hazard estimation, insurance, signal processing, or data science jobs.
