Edgar Ulrich Zorn
Postdoc
junior research group leader
I am a German volcanologist with a B.sc in Geosciences (2014) from the University of Potsdam, Germany, a M.sc. in Earth Sciences (2017) from the University of Auckland, New Zealand. I completed my PhD in Geology in 2020 at the University of Potsdam and the GFZ-Potsdam, studying the application of photogrammetry for lava dome forming processes and dome deformation.
- Emmy-Noether fellow
- 2020 Most Cited Early Career Researcher - Bulletin of Volcanology
- 2019 Postgraduate Student Research Award - The University of Auckland
- 2016 R.N. Brothers Memorial Award - The University of Auckland
Research
My research interests are in physical volcanology and volcano deformation, focusing specifically on instability and collapse hazards of volcano flanks and lava domes. For my work I integrate field, remote sensing (satellites and drones) and laboratory derived data to detect and image volcano deformation processes.
Illustration of compaction processes at volcanoes causing deformation and instability their flanks. | © Edgar Zorn
Volcano flank deformation and instability driven by compaction
Volcanoes are rapidly built by the accumulation of lava and pyroclastic materials during eruptions, forming unstable deposits that compact and deform as they cool and settle. These processes alter the thermal, physical, and mechanical properties of the deposits, representing critical factors in flank stability that are not well quantified. Instability can lead to minor deformation or catastrophic collapses, posing a serious hazard that still remains poorly understood and unpredictable today. This project aims to generate quantitative datasets and methods to assess and forecast volcanic flank instability using multidisciplinary data from field and laboratory scales, analyzing ground deformation, deposit properties, and collapse hazards. The findings will improve hazard assessments, inform infrastructure planning, and help predict the progression of deposit compaction and weakening.
Running Project
Zorn, E. U., Kendrick, J. E., Lamur, A., Birnbaum, J., Kueppers, U., Da Silva, M. M., & Lavallée, Y. (2024). Experimental investigation of volcaniclastic compaction during burial. Volcanica, 7(2), 765-783. https://doi.org/10.30909/vol.07.02.765783