Nanyang Technological University

Luca Dal Zilio is an Assistant Professor of Geophysics at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore and a Principal Investigator at the Earth Observatory of Singapore (EOS), where he leads the Computational Geophysics Lab (CGL). His work focuses on understanding natural hazards like earthquakes, tsunamis, and crustal deformation, as well as exploring geoenergy solutions such as enhanced geothermal systems and carbon storage.

Homepage: https://earthobservatory.sg

The Computational Geophysics Lab at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in collaboration with the University of Cambridge and the AI for Environmental Risks Programme. This interdisciplinary project aims to advance our understanding of earthquake physics by combining large-scale, physics-based simulations of dynamic rupture and long-term seismic cycles with modern artificial intelligence (AI) techniques.

Project Background
While deterministic earthquake prediction is not possible, physics-based simulations are beginning to replicate the complex, nonlinear behaviour of real fault systems (see figure). This project will build on those tools to investigate how AI methods, such as machine learning, neural operators, and surrogate modelling, can be used to detect patterns in earthquake simulations, accelerate computational workflows, and connect simulations with observational data such as GPS and seismicity records.

Job Description
The successful candidate will:

• Develop AI-based tools (e.g., surrogate models, neural operators) to enhance earthquake simulations.
• Identify precursory features and critical transitions in complex seismic cycle and rupture models.
• Integrate geophysical datasets (e.g., GPS, seismic catalogues) to better constrain model behaviour.
• Work within a collaborative and interdisciplinary team at NTU Singapore and the University of Cambridge.

The PhD candidate will be jointly supervised by Prof. Luca Dal Zilio (NTU Singapore, Earth Observatory of Singapore) and Prof. Adriano Gualandi (University of Cambridge). The student will benefit from cross-institutional mentorship, international workshops, and a vibrant academic environment.

Profile
We are looking for candidates who:

• Hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in geophysics, physics, mathematics, engineering, or computer science.
• Have a strong background in physics and mathematics, and familiarity with AI or machine learning.
• Are proficient in scientific programming (e.g., Python, Julia).
• Are curious, self-driven, and motivated to work across disciplines.

We Offer

• A fully funded 4-year PhD position with competitive salary.
• Joint supervision and access to world-class expertise at NTU Singapore and the University of Cambridge.
• High-performance computing facilities and dedicated research resources.
• A supportive, internationally connected, and collaborative research community.

To apply, please send the following documents to computational.geophysics.lab@gmail.com:

• A one-page motivation letter.
• Your full CV.
• Academic transcripts.
• Contact information of two academic referees.

Please include the subject line: “PhD Application – AI Earthquake Simulation.” Application deadline: 30 June 2025. Review will continue until the position is filled. For further information, feel free to contact Dr. Luca Dal Zilio at luca.dalzilio@ntu.edu.sg (no applications) or visit our website.