The Land Subsidence and Hazard Mitigation Research Group focuses on researching ground surface deformation and movement, as well as the wide range of negative impacts these phenomena have on land users. Our research covers the following areas:
- Monitoring, analyzing, and interpreting ground surface deformation and movement, including continuous and discontinuous deformations and induced seismicity.
- Modeling and forecasting rock mass and ground surface deformation and movement.
- Analyzing and assessing hazards to land users and ground surface infrastructure.
- Assessing the relationship between ground surface deformation and global climate change.
For monitoring ground surface movement, we primarily use satellite radar interferometry (InSAR), supported by geodetic and remote sensing data. The modeling of rock mass deformation is directly informed by the analysis of monitoring results from both the terrain and the interior of the rock mass. Based on these results, we develop mathematical models of the studied phenomena. However, due to the complexity of the research topics we address, model parameterization must often be tailored to local conditions. To meet this need, we extensively use inverse modeling approaches and appropriate statistical methods to test the reliability of the model parameterization.
Both the monitoring results and forecasts enable us to analyze the potential hazards to land users, buildings, and infrastructure. To analyze, assess, and mitigate these potential threats and risks, we employ geostatistical tools, multi-criteria decision-making tools, and artificial intelligence. Additionally, we benefit from the extensive experience of our peers in the industry sector, which often supports our investigations.
In recent years, the impact of climate change on the global economy has become increasingly evident. The Land Subsidence and Hazard Mitigation Research Group conducts research on how the characteristics of deforming areas interact with and can potentially improve the geoclimatic properties of entire regions.
The Land Subsidence and Hazard Mitigation Research Group engages in international cooperation with scientists from various esteemed institutions. Our collaborative research includes partnerships with AGH University of Cracow in Poland, the University of Padua in Italy, China University of Mining and Technology in Beijing, the University of Johannesburg in South Africa, Clausthal University of Technology in Germany, Ho Chi Minh University in Vietnam, and several universities in the Netherlands including TU Delft, Twente University, and Wageningen University. Additionally, we work closely with the University of Aberdeen in Scotland.