Navin Thapa

Graduate Doctoral Researcher
CERI, University of Memphis
I am currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Seismology at the Center for Earthquake Research and Information, University of Memphis. My research endeavors are conducted within the Earthquake Physics Laboratory led by Dr. Thomas Goebel. My research is driven by a deep curiosity about the physics of faulting and the mechanisms that govern earthquakes in subduction zones, volcanic environments, and experimental laboratory-created faults.

At the Earthquake Physics Lab, our work spans various aspects of seismology, including fault slip dynamics, frictional properties, and seismic energy radiation. A key component of my research involves studying laboratory earthquakes, which show structural similarities to natural fault systems in the upper crust and generate seismic event statistics comparable to real-world seismicity.

I integrate theoretical, numerical, and experimental approaches to explore fundamental earthquake processes, with a particular focus on:

In addition, my research also includes: Automated Seismic Monitoring for Energy Operations: Developing a fully automated seismic monitoring system to improve safety and efficiency in geothermal, oil & gas, and carbon storage operations. This work aims to enhance seismic hazard assessment and mitigate risks associated with induced seismicity.

Beyond traditional earthquake physics, I am passionate about leveraging cutting-edge technologies, including machine learning and automation, to real-world challenges in seismic monitoring and energy sustainability. By integrating AI-driven seismic analysis with physical earthquake models, my work contributes to the development of smarter, data-driven solutions for energy production and seismic hazard mitigation.

Updates

Nov 8, 2024

Completed National I-Corps Program hosted by Mid South as part of the National Science Foundation's I-Corps program

June 3, 2024

Attended pyRATES: Python and R Analysis of Time SerieS at Del Rey, CA FROG: A workshop in science pratice and publishing

May 20, 2024

Attended SCOPED Workshop 2024: CyberTraining for Seismology in University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. Present Posteron Community Seismic Network in the Apaneca-Ilamatepec-Coatepeque Volcanic Complex in El Salvador.

Apr 22, 2024

News and Impact feature on UofM Division of Research and Innovation for building new seismic network around Santa Ana volcano, El Salvador during the fall of 2023 in collaboration with El Salvador

Feb 07, 2024

Research in a minute series spolight of the Dr. Thomas Goebel and Earthquake Physics Lab as the most active and accomplished researchers across various disciplines at the University of Memphis.

Dec 12, 2023

Presented Poster on "Does b-value Increase with Higher Pore Pressure?" at AGU Annual Meeting 2023, San Francisoco.

Sep 22, 2023

Visited El Salvador for setting up seismic network for volcano seismicity.

May 15, 2023

Attended second CERI annual field trip to southern california, May 15-19, 2023.

Aug 28, 2021

Joined Earthquake Physics Group at CERI led by Dr. Thomas Goebel.

Featured in University of Memphis

Shaking Up Earthquake Research with Purpose and Innovation

This spring, I was honored with the Top 30 Under 35 Award during the Graduate Student Association's Award Ceremony at the University of Memphis. The article highlights my research in geophysics, focusing on understanding fault mechanics and seismic patterns, particularly in relation to human activity and geothermal energy development.

My work combines experimental seismology and statistical analysis, with recent findings presented at AGU 2024 and a first-author manuscript published to Geophysical Research Letters.

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