IESE Research Expertise
The IESE is a research and development organisation at The University of Auckland, New Zealand. We work on a range of topics in the areas of geothermal energy, geo-hazards and environment, especially as they relate to the earth between the deepest drill holes and tallest buildings.
The backbone of IESE is its engagement in pure, applied and relevant research and professional training focused on the accessible earth – that portion from which our resources come and whose processes and hazards that impact people.
Our main research interests lie in the study of active tectonic and hydrothermal systems. In addition to developing new modeling approaches and surface-based data gathering techniques for such studies, we have also specialised in observing these systems with shallow and deep boreholes, including developing several types of downhole instruments for the latter purpose.
In practical terms, we seek to apply the resulting knowledge and technology to geological hazards, energy exploration, resource evaluation, and subsurface monitoring. Our current focus is applying this research to geothermal development and volcano and earthquake hazards.
Our science
We have a strong focus on geothermal systems, covering areas of geothermal geophysics and geology, geothermal geochemistry and mineralogy. We also study earthquake and volcano hazards, with particular reference to those in the Auckland area and along New Zealand’s Alpine fault. Similarly, we are interested in the impact of both natural changes and industrial and cultural activities on geological processes.
Borehole Seismology and Seismic Networks
Deep Borehole Instrumentation
Geothermal Exploration
Joint Geophysical Imaging
Enhanced Geothermal System Modelling
Volcanology