Monitoring Earth's Dynamic Surface: Unveiling Climate-Induced Phenomena and Volcanic Activities through Long-Period Global Seismic Waves in the Context of Environmental Seismology
University of Padova
Climate: Past, Present & Future (CL)
Seismology (SM)
The Earth’s surface is undergoing rapid and profound changes, many of which are directly linked to climate change. These transformations are particularly evident in remote regions like Greenland and Antarctica, where the effects of a warming planet manifest dramatically. Rapid glacial movements, which can trigger destructive tsunamis and seiches, along with extraordinary underwater volcanic eruptions in places such as Mayotte and Tonga, showcase the growing urgency to understand these climate-induced events and their potential risks. Seismic waves, generated by both climate-driven processes and volcanic activities, are a powerful tool for unlocking the complex physical mechanisms behind these events. Environmental seismology is uniquely positioned to provide real-time insights into the impacts of climate change and the mitigation of related risks by continuously monitoring seismic activity on a global scale. In this PhD project, we will harness 30 years of continuous global seismological data to identify new signals linked to climate and volcanic phenomena. By focusing on long- period global seismic waves, we aim to pinpoint and catalogue previously unrecognized events associated with significant surface changes, such as glacial mass shifts and volcanic eruptions. Furthermore, through advanced physical modeling, we will explore the dynamics of these events, estimating critical parameters such as the mass of ice involved and the forces driving these processes. Ultimately, this research will significantly enhance our understanding of the Earth’s surface dynamics in the face of accelerating climate change and the growing risk of volcanic hazards. By identifying key seismic signals and modeling their impacts, we contribute vital knowledge to mitigating climate-related risks and improving preparedness for future environmental challenges.
Application deadline: 21st of November
If interested contact as soon as possible: piero.poli@unipd.it