Groundwater and Heat Transport Processes in Deep Fault Zones

Hande Okutan
Geological Survey of Finland (GTK)

My research focuses on improving in situ characterization of fractured crystalline rocks to reduce uncertainties in flow, heat, and solute transport modeling, which is critical for safe nuclear waste disposal, geothermal energy use, and underground energy storage.

These challenges are central to energy transition and sustainable water resource management. Inadequate understanding of fault zone processes, such as matrix diffusion and channelized flow, can compromise long-term safety and efficiency. To address this, I integrate hydraulic, thermal, and tracer experiments (single- and multi-well) with geological and geophysical data using advanced inversion and machine learning techniques. Through comprehensive data integration, the approach advances predictive capability and site safety evaluations.

Programme

Find out the research institutes that implement the Programme and where to find open positions.

Progress

Great start for the Programme! The first 36 postdoctoral researchers have been recruited and started their work. Half of them relocated to Finland from abroad.
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