Wenzhuo Cao

ERE Energy, Resources and the Environment

The 2026 Division Outstanding Early Career Scientist Award is awarded to Wenzhuo Cao for contributions in discovering novel physical mechanisms underlying induced seismicity, and developing advanced coupled multiphysics modelling frameworks.

Wenzhuo Cao's research focuses on elucidating the physical mechanisms driving induced seismicity and the role of fracture systems and fault structures within coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical (THM) processes. His early research uncovered three key mechanisms for mining-induced hazards: the fracture slip seismicity-generation, the excavation unloading-triggered dynamic instability, and the gas desorption-driven rapid fracture propagation. These earned him the International Society for Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering (ISRM) Rocha Medal Runner-up Award and the American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA) Cook Dissertation Award.

More recently, Cao has advanced understanding of fluid injection-induced seismicity. His discoveries include the cooling contraction-induced permeability enhancement mechanism, the first evidence of stress transfer mechanism related to Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), and quantitative evaluation of the physical plausibility and relative impacts of fluid pressure, poroelasticity, thermoelasticity, and fault slip.  Cao’s work has remarkable practical impact. He has applied his expertise to CCS, geothermal, aquifer/mine thermal energy storage, hydrogen storage, and mining, at key industrial sites, including In Salah (Algeria), Hellisheiði (Iceland), Kizildere (Turkey) and UKGEOS (UK). His work has shaped engineering practices–leading to hazard mitigation measures adopted in Slovenian mining statutes, and seismicity mitigation methods, such as cold fluid injection, recommended at Hellisheiði. His current efforts align closely with the Energy Resources and Environment Division’s mission, promoting sustainable geothermal systems in the Netherlands and Iceland, thermal energy storage in repurposed coal mines in Slovenia and Poland, and hydrogen storage in the Dutch North Sea.

Beyond research, Cao is a dedicated community leader. He has co-convened sessions at EGU General Assembly 2024-25, the International Conference on Coupled Processes in Fractured Geological Media, the American Rock Mechanics Association and the World Gas Conference. He serves on editorial boards, has guest-edited special issues and received multiple recognitions for his scholarly service. Wenzhuo Cao’s exceptional science, practical impact and community leadership make him a truly deserving recipient of the award.