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Planetary Scientist

About

I study the structural geology and tectonics of rocky worlds, reconstructing how Mars, Venus, and the icy moons have deformed over billions of years.

I am a planetary scientist investigating the structural geology and tectonics of rocky worlds. My research focuses on understanding the deformation processes that have shaped the surfaces of Mars and Venus over billions of years, revealing the dynamic geological histories preserved in their landscapes. I employ a multidisciplinary approach that integrates remote sensing analysis, analog modeling, and computational simulations to decode the tectonic patterns observed on planetary surfaces. This comparative methodology allows me to reconstruct the evolutionary pathways of terrestrial planets and connect surface features to deeper interior processes.

While my primary work centers on Mars and Venus, my research interests extend to other planetary bodies, including the icy moons of the outer solar system, and broader questions regarding planetary habitability. Through this work, I aim to advance our understanding of how terrestrial planets evolve and what their tectonic signatures reveal about their past and present conditions.

In addition to my scientific pursuits, I am deeply passionate about project and team leadership, science communication, teaching, and advancing diversity within the scientific community. I am committed to cultivating an academic environment that values inclusivity, equity, and representation — striving to inspire and support the next generation of scientists while contributing to a more accessible and welcoming scientific community.

Oguzcan Karagoz presenting

General Geology & Structural Geology, Institute of Geosciences, University of Freiburg
Albertstrasse 23-B (room 01.007), 79104 Freiburg, Germany

Academic & Research Experience

2023 — present
Research Scientist
Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Germany
2019 — 2023
Dr. rer. nat. (Ph.D.)
Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Germany
2019 — 2023
DAAD Fellow
German Academic Exchange Service Fellowship
2017 — 2019
M.Sc. Geology
Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Germany
2017
B.Sc. Geological Engineering
Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Turkey
FAQs

Answers to common questions about my research and working together

Email me

Absolutely. If a paper sits behind a paywall, email me and I'll happily send you a private copy — just mention which one you're after.

Yes. I enjoy working across remote sensing, analogue modelling, and numerical geodynamics. If our interests overlap on Mars, Venus, or the icy moons, get in touch and we can find a shared question.

I'm glad to discuss student projects, guest lectures, and outreach talks on planetary tectonics and geodynamics. Reach out with what you have in mind and we'll see if it fits.

Mostly ASPECT, LaMEM, and iSALE for modelling, alongside scaled analogue experiments and GIS-based geological mapping. I also help develop and benchmark open-source geodynamics codes.

Datasets and scripts behind my papers are shared on request and, where possible, in public repositories. Ask me about a specific study and I will point you to the right place.

Email is best — [email protected]. I am based at the Institute of Geosciences, University of Freiburg.

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