An academic from the University of Plymouth is to play an integral role in raising scientific and public awareness of the increasing threats posed by geohazards.

Dr Irene Manzella, Lecturer in Engineering Geology and Geohazards, has been nominated by the Geological Society as a deputy theme leader for its forthcoming work around Geohazards, Geoengineering and Georesilience.

A programme of work will involve the development of innovative interdisciplinary activities, public engagement events and networking opportunities.

All of that will be aimed at bringing together researchers from all disciplines, along with members of the public, NGOs and policy makers to foster new collaborations and develop cutting-edge knowledge.

Dr Manzella’s nomination is recognition of her expertise in multiple and complex hazards, geoengineering and resilience. She is currently working on several projects on these topics including two funded by the Natural Environment Research Council.

The first - Tsunamigenic mass flows at Stromboli Volcano - is focused on the island of Stromboli, off the coast of Italy, and aims to assess how landslides and mass flows caused by eruptions can trigger potentially devastating tsunamis.

She is also the Plymouth lead on SENSUM, a £1.2million project which aims to develop new monitoring technologies that will reduce risks related to landslides and floods. She said: