About the Continental Evolution Research Group

The history of CERG

The Continental Evolution Research Group (CERG) was formed in 2002 at the suggestion of Associate Professor Martin Hand in order to develop an integrated and multidisciplinary approach to tectonic synthesis.

Since its inception, CERG has generated more than $5m in research funding from Federal, State and International agencies and Industry.

Goals

• To pursue national strategic, and high impact international research into the analysis of tectonic systems.
• To develop and apply a unique method to the analysis of tectonic systems.
• Provide a training environment for Honours and Postgraduate students to either continue research or move into the work place.
• Build national and international linkages with other researchers and industry partners.

Research Questions

The aim of CERG is to solve tectonic questions, by integrating Geological, Geochemical and Geophysical Sciences.

Some examples of tectonic questions that CERG is interested in researching include:

• What are the crustal & lithospheric architecture of continents and oceans?
• How have continental terranes evolved through time?
• How do different orogens evolve?
• What are the mechanisms of continental assembly & breakup?
• What are the tectonic controls on certain styles of mineralisation?