Dr Pablo J Gonzalez BSc, MSc, PhD

Space geodesy has broad applications in the definition of global geodetic reference frames, navigation and security. Our group is interested to develop techniques for the analysis of geodetic data to obtain the most precise high-resolution (in space and time) estimates of surface ground deformation and its uncertainties for geohazard applications (land subsidence, volcanology and tectonics).

New technology means new opportunities, so we are excited to use novel techniques in a different and useful way. Our group explores the use of e.g., optical remote sensing, radar interferometry or GNSS to map surface ground deformation, and make a difference in how to use geodetic data to benefit modelling and understanding of natural hazards.

Using geodetic data, we study how volcanoes deform. For example, how a repeated sets of microgravity surveys soon after a period of unrest could serve for the monitoring of fluid migrations after a dike intrusion (Gottsmann et al., 2006). Also a hot topic in volcano geodesy is the evaluation of structural stability of volcanic edifices and the study of frictional and kinematic properties of basal (decollements) and intra-volcanic fault systems (González et al., 2010). In general, the development of ground deformation monitoring systems (Prieto et al., 2009).

Our group has an extensive experience in basaltic systems and in particular, Ocean Island Volcanoes: Hawaii, Cape Verde and Canary Islands. Close collaboration with the Osservatorio Etneo allowed us to study Mt. Etna volcano in several projects.

Current research topics include, but are not limited to:
- Volcano flank deformation and its relation with active magmatic systems
- Mechanics of slow-slip events in volcanic areas
- Coupling of stress change and rate-and-state models for sill propagation
- Geodynamics of Oceanic Island Volcanoes
- Time-lapse high-resolution topography around volcanoes

Continental lithosphere deformation can be measured using seismotectonics and geodesy. We study the instantaneous (present-day) deformation kinematics using geodetic data from GNSS networks and satellite radar interferometric surveys. These snapshots can be combined with long-term estimates from geomorphology and structural geology. In particular, we investigate recent and outstanding earthquakes using radar interferometry to illuminate the slip distribution at depth. Fault slip models during interseismic, co- and postseismic deformation phases could allow us to understand better the earthquake cycle and reduce the seismic hazard.

Particularly, we are interesting in low-rate convergence diffuse plate boundaries (e.g., Western Mediterranean area), slow fault slip rates requires extremely careful analysis of the geodetic data. Distribution of geodetic strain-rate could be use as a proxy for elastic strain accumulation and therefore long-term seismic hazard, even with low levels of instrumental seismicity. In the future, we are interest to develop kinematic and geodynamic models to explain the current deformation partition at such low rate convergence diffuse plate boundaries.