Research in this unit

Our research aims to characterize the structure and evolution of the lithosphere, exploring the processes that shape the Earth’s surface and associated natural resources. We study sedimentary basins, ductile deformation and metamorphism in the deep crust. We work in both continental and marine regions, especially in modern and ancient orogenic zones.

The diverse scientific specialties of the group allow this comprehensive analysis of lithospheric dynamics at continental margins and in the formation of sedimentary basins, in order to reconstruct their paleogeographic evolution. Our studies include seismic activity and the characterization of the associated geological risks, which affect the population and infrastructures, to assess their effects on landslides and on the stability of civil works.

Objectives

1. To integrate geological and geophysical data to explain the present-day lithospheric configuration of the Betic-Rif Cordillera, from the initial stages of cortical shortening to the thinning and extension during the Miocene.
   2. To study the Alpine and pre-Alpine (polyorogenic and polymetamorphic) tectonometamorphic evolution of the Betic-Rif Inner Zones and perimediterranean equivalents developed in a comparable geodynamic framework, by applying geochronological, petrological and microstructural methods in an integrated way.
   3. Geological characterization of orogenic regions, such as those of the Western Mediterranean (especially the Betic and Rif), studying the processes that shape their structure and evolution during the Neogene.
   4. Analysis of the contractional and extensional processes that generate and thin orogenic belts and form related sedimentary basins (emerged and marine regions), gathering the geometrical and kinematic description and the temporal evolution of extensional fault systems.
   5. Stratigraphic characterization of the Phanerozoic sedimentary record of the peri-Mediterranean Alpine domains and study of their Alpine and pre-Alpine paleogeographic evolution. This objective requires the analysis of sedimentary facies and biochronology to reconstruct the sedimentary processes in the Mediterranean Alpine paleomargins.
   6. Characterization of active and recent deformation in seismically active regions and associated geological hazards. In this sense, the processes that shape the topographic surface are studied, measuring ground movements linked to landslides and active structures that affect civil works.