Applied geophysics provides a multidimensional suite of methods suitable to investigate subsurface structures, and time-lapse techniques to monitor the dynamics of subsurface fluids and, where relevant such as at cotaminated sites, important biogeochemical reactions. Hydrogeophysics methods have grown rapidly over the past few decades, as a result of subsurface hydrology requiring more accurate field-based investigation techniques.

Advanced robust data inversion approaches, capable of quantifying shallow subsurface heterogeneity and the associated dynamics of subsurface fluids, can provide a quantitative subsoil characterization also taking advantage of advanced petrophysical relationships linking hydrologically relevant properties to measurable geophysical parameters. This emerging geophysical approach follows the increasing need to understand and quantify key processes for controlling sustainable water resources and ecosystem services.

Professors coordinating and developing projects related to this research pathway: Giorgio Cassiani, Jacopo Boaga