Department of Geosciences, Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources
Earth and Planetary Geodynamics group
The Earth and Planetary Geodynamics (EPG) research group, led by Junior-Prof. Dr. Anna Gülcher, bridges geosciences and planetary sciences to investigate the evolution of Earth, planets, and moons. Our research focuses on the dynamics of planetary interiors, surfaces, and atmospheres, and the interactions between these components. The overarching goal is to understand the processes that shape planetary bodies, govern their long-term evolution, and ultimately influence planetary (in)habitability.
We combine computational modelling with Earth observations, planetary mission data, and laboratory constraints on Earth and planetary materials. Key research themes include scientific software development, mantle convection, (plate) tectonics, Earth’s deep structure, volcanism, atmospheric evolution, interior–atmosphere interactions, and the interpretation of geophysical, geological, geochemical, and remote-sensing datasets. Our work can be Earth-focused, planet-focused, or explicitly comparative across worlds.
In teaching, we contribute to courses in the new Earth and Planetary Sciences major within the Earth Sciences Master’s study programme. Students develop an understanding of Earth and planetary systems, while building expertise in planetary interiors, tectonics, volcanism, geodynamics, and the analysis of Earth- and mission-based datasets. They also gain transferable skills in computational methods, data analysis, visualization, and scientific communication. Research and thesis projects are available on a rolling basis.
Jobs
Opportunities for PhD/postdoc positions and research visits.
Team
Introduction to our team members, a list of contact details, and location.
Research
More information on our research focus areas and current projects.
Teaching
Our teaching offerings and information about theses/research projects.
What is geodynamics?
Geodynamics is the branch of Earth and planetary sciences that seeks to unravel the dynamic processes governing how planetary interiors move, deform, and evolve through time, from the earliest stages after formation to the present day. It focuses on how heat transport, material flow, and mechanical deformation within the mantle and lithosphere drive tectonics and volcanism, shape topography, and influence the long-term exchange of volatiles between a planet’s interior, surface, and atmosphere.
A key process we investigate is mantle convection: the slow, solid-state flow of the mantle that transfers heat and material through the interior and drives the thermal evolution of a planet. On Earth, this internal engine shapes surface structures such as plate boundaries, rifts, mountain belts, volcanoes, continents, and ocean basins, and it is in part responsible for our planet’s stable and temperate surface environment that supports life. Geodynamics therefore also provides context for understanding how planets could become (in)habitable.
Because planetary interiors cannot be observed directly beyond shallow depths, geodynamics combines physics-based theory and numerical modelling with observations, including data from laboratory experiments, geology, geochemistry, gravity, topography, surface deformation, and seismic measurements on Earth, and increasingly spacecraft mission datasets for other planets and moons.
Scientific software development
Our group uses a range of scientific software and computational tools. A central component of our work is the development and application of geodynamic numerical codes that simulate mantle convection and the resulting tectonic and volcanic processes at the surface. These simulations typically rely on high-performance computing, while post-processing, visualization, and quantitative analysis are carried out using custom workflows and codes on local machines.
The scientific software development, computational methods, and quantitative analysis skills gained through this work are highly interdisciplinary and broadly transferable. They are relevant to a wide range of careers within and beyond academia, including computational engineering, climate and Earth-system modelling, space and aerospace applications, energy and subsurface geoscience, and data-driven research and development.
Research group values
Our group values diversity, inclusivity, and open exchange as the foundation of a respectful and ambitious research environment. We welcome researchers from different backgrounds and value the perspectives and approaches they bring. We work in an environment that encourages curiosity, questions, open discussion, and critical evaluation. This supports both individual development and progress toward shared research goals.
Mentoring in our group is adapted to individual goals, strengths, and career stages. We provide individualized support through regular guidance, direct feedback, and constructive challenge. Our aim is to help students and researchers build confidence, develop independence, and progress toward their academic or professional goals.
