Thread: USGS Mendenhall Postdoctoral Fellowship Opportunity: Full-Waveform Inversion

Started: 2020-10-08 21:12:18
Last activity: 2020-10-08 21:12:18
Mendenhall Fellowship Program Research Opportunity 19-25:
Applications of full-waveform inversion for high-resolution seismic velocity models and site response in support of earthquake ground motion investigations


Ground motion characterization represents one of the greatest uncertainties in probabilistic seismic-hazard analysis. While advances in 3-D ground motion simulations are prompting their serious consideration for inclusion in next-generation seismic-hazard models, many important scientific issues affecting accurate ground motion prediction remain. First among them is development of robust high-resolution seismic velocity models, which is a critical step for characterizing subsurface geologic properties and understanding anelastic wave propagation caused by both path and site effects. The focus of this Mendenhall research opportunity is to explore the application of full waveform inversion (FWI) methods for creating velocity models that support understanding of earthquake wave propagation in regions of high seismic hazard and societal impact, leading to improved prediction of earthquake ground motions. The research effort will be largely determined by the postdoctoral fellow’s background and interests but ideally will broadly align with the Research Advisors’ interests in seismic hazards in the United States.

A wide range of research questions may be explored including, but not limited to:

1) developing high-resolution seismic velocity structure from FWI of earthquake and ambient noise data; and

2) improving velocity model resolution through full-waveform inversion of seismic site characterization data for estimating site response.

Complete project details and contact information can be found at:
https://www.usgs.gov/centers/mendenhall/19-25-applications-full-waveform-inversion-high-resolution-seismic-velocity

Proposed Duty Station: Golden, Colorado
Research Advisors: William Stephenson, Oliver Boyd, Morgan Moschetti, Ebru Bozdag, and Arthur Frankel

Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the Research Advisors early and to work with them to develop a suitable proposal.

Application deadline is January 4, 2021.

Please see https://www.usgs.gov/centers/mendenhall for additional information on the Mendenhall Fellowship Program and how to apply.


William Stephenson
Research Geophysicist
U. S. Geological Survey
phone: 303-273-8573
wstephens<at>usgs.gov

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