Overview

Advances in geodetic, seismic, and geological observations now capture fault behavior with remarkable detail, from slow transient deformation to fluid driven processes and fault zone complexity, but observations alone cannot explain the physical processes that govern earthquake cycles. Researchers still need physics-based models to translate these datasets into meaningful scientific insight and improved seismic hazard assessments. Modern Sequences of Earthquakes and Aseismic Slip (SEAS) simulations provide this bridge, yet many early career scientists lack opportunities to learn the numerical modeling and high-performance computing skills required to use these models effectively.

In this workshop, we will train up to 30 graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and early career scientists to use Tandem, an open-source high-performance computing code that models the earthquake cycle with realistic fault geometry, material heterogeneity, and frictional behavior. Participants will design SEAS simulations that build on SCEC community datasets and Earth models, generate meshes, run computations on their own laptops and on national supercomputers, and learn to interpret the resulting outputs. Our program combines short lectures with guided hands-on exercises, dedicated time for participants to develop their own simulations, and invited speakers. Participants will acquire understanding not only of the Tandem software, but also of the state-of-the art SEAS simulations and their future directions.

The workshop will take place in La Jolla, California, at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Participants will stay on the main UC San Diego campus in double-occupancy rooms and will take a short shuttle to Scripps each day. Food and accommodation will be provided for selected participants, and limited travel support may be available.

The program will begin Monday afternoon, June 22, and conclude on Wednesday, June 24 late afternoon. Lodging and meals will be provided from Monday lunch through Thursday morning. Participants can fly into San Diego International Airport, which is approximately a 20–30 minute drive from the UC San Diego campus. Participants are expected to attend the full duration of the workshop. Online participation will be available on the first day.

We encourage applications from anyone interested in SEAS simulations and motivated to develop computational and numerical modeling skills. The workshop is especially well-suited for graduate students and postdoctoral researchers with an interest in earthquake physics, geodesy, seismology, geodynamics, or related fields. Prior experience with high-performance computing is not required, but a willingness to engage with computational tools is important.