Summary
I am a PhD student, my primary research focus is understanding 2D and 3D controls on subduction dynamics using numerical modelling.
MAIN TOPICS OF INTEREST:
- Geodynamics
- 2D and 3D numerical modelling
- Subduction processes
Research Interest
I am currently focused on the roll of the asthenosphere is 2D numerical models and its use as a decoupling layer between the plate and the mantle. I apply asthenosphere in my models in order to create more realistic plate length-subduction velocity behaviour and a better correlation with measured trench behaviour.
I also use 3D models to determine the roll of regions of irregular plate density, such as Large Igneous Provinces (LIPs), on the overall subduction dynamics. I look into correlations between low density regions and low angle subduction.
I use another set of 3D models to understand the controls of surrounding plates on subduction dynamics in regions of isolated subduction. These are regions such as the Caribbean, where the subduction along the Antilles arc is limited from north and south by the N. America and S. America plates.
For my models I use two codes:
- I use Imperial College's Fluidity code, adapted to geodynamic purposes for the 2D and the bounded 3D models
- I use a coupled Finite Element and Boundary Element (FEM-BEM) models for the irregular density 3D models
ACADEMIC BIOGRAPHY
- 2011-2014 - B.Sc. in Geology and Physics (dual course), Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
- 2014-2017 - M.Sc. in Marine Geoscience, University of Haifa, Israel
- Oct. 2017 - Present - PhD student, Imperial College London
PROJECTS
2017, Masters Thesis - 'Curvature and morphological development of initially complex subduction zones using 3D modeling: the case of the Cyprian Convergent Zone'
OTHER RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
- 2012 - 2014 - Assistant in the Geochemistry department in the Geological Survey of Israel
- 2015 - 2017 - Teaching assistant for 'Introduction to Geology' course in Mikhmoret College for Marine Sciences, Israel
- 2015 - 2017 - Geotechnical supervisor for Geo-Log Geotechnical Services Ltd., Israel
TEACHING ASSISTANT
- ACSE-2 - Dr. Saskia Goes
- Physical Processes - Dr. Elizabeth Day
- Deforming the Earth - Dr. Alex Whittaker
Publications
Journals
Chen F, Davies DR, Goes S, et al., 2022, Comparing the Dynamics of Free Subduction in Cartesian and Spherical Domains, Geochemistry Geophysics Geosystems, Vol:23
Chen F, Davies DR, Goes S, et al., 2022, How Slab Age and Width Combine to Dictate the Dynamics and Evolution of Subduction Systems: A 3-D Spherical Study, Geochemistry Geophysics Geosystems, Vol:23
Chen F, Davies DR, Goes S, et al., 2022, Comparing the Dynamics of Free Subduction in Cartesian and Spherical Domains
Suchoy L, Goes S, Chen F, et al., 2022, How aseismic ridges modify the dynamics of free subduction: a 3-D numerical investigation, Frontiers in Earth Science, Vol:10, ISSN:2296-6463
Chen F, Davies DR, Goes S, et al., 2021, How sphericity combines with the age and width of slabs to dictate the dynamics and evolution of subduction systems on Earth