My research interests focus on the microscale mechanisms that control the frictional behaviour of fault materials. Using laboratory experiments, microstructural investigations and microphysical modelling, I aim to determine the microscale deformation mechanisms that lead to stable versus unstable fault slip. In the Lyell Centre, I use this approach in the context of for example Enhanced Geothermal Systems, Carbon Capture and Storage, energy storage and hydrofracturing operations. Fluid injection during these operations may lead to reactivation of pre-existing faults which can lead to induced seismicity in the case fault slip is unstable.

Since 2017: Lyell Research Fellow, The Lyell Centre, Heriot-Watt University

2016 – 2017: Marie Skłodowska-Curie Research Fellow, University of Liverpool, Rock Deformation Laboratory, UK

2015: Post-doc, Utrecht University, HPT Laboratory, NL

2014 – 2015: NSF GeoPRISMS postdoctoral fellow, Penn State University, Rock and Sediment Mechanics Laboratory, USA

2013 – 2014: Post-doc, Penn State University, Rock and Sediment Mechanics Laboratory, USA

2008 – 2013: PhD student (cum laude), Utrecht University, HPT Laboratory, NL       

2008: MSc (cum laude) Geology, Utrecht University, NL

2006: BSc (cum laude) in Earth Sciences, Utrecht University, NL