Geodynamics

A New Look at the Rheology of Deep Subduction Zones

Ana Lorena Abila and edited by Betti Hegyi November 27, 2024

Field photos of shear zones from Syros Island, Greece. Photo credit: Ana Lorena Abila

Subduction zones are dynamic regions where intense geological processes like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and the recycling of oceanic crust are constantly at play. A key factor that influences the behavior of these zones is *interface rheology*—the strength and viscosity of the boundary (the interface) between the subducting and overriding plates. Understanding this interface is crucial for i ...[Read More]

DYNAMICE: An ERC Starting grant project to bridge the gap between geodynamics and ice modelling

Ágnes Király and edited by Alexis Gauthier November 20, 2024

Figure 1: DYNAMICE is an ERC Stg project starting in May, 2025, to explore the impact of anisotropic viscosity on the interplay between ice and mantle dynamics. Logo design by Fabio Crameri (undertone.design)

In the 2024 ERC Starting Grant call, the European Research Council received nearly 3,500 proposals, of which approximately 14% were awarded funding. Among the 20 projects funded in the field of Earth System Sciences is DYNAMICE, led by Ágnes Király, the 2023 recipient of the EGU GD Division Outstanding Early Career Award. Through this blog, Ágnes will introduce us to her project. The vast ice shee ...[Read More]

Dirty Poppy and the Research Tournament of Arcane Mysteries.

Katherine Villavicencio and edited by Constanza Rodriguez Piceda November 13, 2024

Representative Cup for the winner of the Research Tournament of Arcane Mysteries. Figure generated by PromeAI.

In this week’s post, Dr. Katherine Villavicencio (University G. d’Annunzio, Italy) looks into the flaws of the academic system that enables abusive supervisors to hold excessive power. In the form of a wizardly tale, she sheds light on the negative experiences of students subjected to the oppressive control of this kind of supervisors. In an alternate universe, the magical world is governed by ac ...[Read More]

The Great Green Paradox

Nicholas Vafeas and edited by Kleoniki (Lydia) Theodoridou November 6, 2024

The policy cycle in the mineral resources industry. Illustrated by Emily Hinshaw.

The sustainable and responsible use of mineral resources is a challenging task, yet essential for the benefit of our society. In this week’s blog, Dr. Νicholas Vafeas, an economic Geologist with a rich background in energy and mineral resources policy, shares his views on the urgent need to develop a holistic approach that can help integrate sustainable practises without posing any further risks t ...[Read More]