PhD Student

Field of interest

Mountain hydrogeology, Numerical Modeling, Hydrogeophysics, Geomechanics.

Research

The aim of my research project is to enhance comprehension of the impact of geomorphological and tectonic factors on the distribution of hydraulic properties, and their effect on groundwater flow and transport in mountainous areas, mainly in fractured rock. Specifically, I am investigating the relationship between stress and the opening or closing of fractures, and how this affects the permeability and porosity of rocks, as well as the discharge and residence times of groundwater in mountainous regions. To begin, I am using synthetic models to identify the most important parameters. I will then apply and compare these models with real data from various intramountain sub-basins in the Alps.

Education

• 2023 – Present: PhD Candidate. Center for Hydrogeology and Geothermics (CHYN), University of Neuchatel.
• 2018 – 2019: M.Sc. in Engineering Sciences. Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, Santiago, Chile. Thesis title: Advances in the western Andean front aquifers characterization by gravimetric and electrical surveys
• 2012 – 2016: B.Sc. in Natural Sciences and Math. Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.

Positions Held

• 2023 – Present: PhD Candidate, Center for Hydrogeology and Geothermics (CHYN), University of Neuchatel.
• 2021 – 2023: Hydrogeology Engineer, Center for Advanced Studies in Arid Zones. Chile
• 2020 – 2021: Hydrogeophysicist, Aluvial Consultores. Chile
• 2018 – 2019: Assistant for courses and excursions, Pontifical Catholic University of Chile.
• 2017: Geophysicist, GFDAS SA. Chile

Publications

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ronny-Figueroa-2

Office: E204

Phone: +41 (0)32 718 26 61

[email protected]

Centre for Hydrogeology and Geothermics (CHYN)
Emile-Argand 11
CH-2000 Neuchâtel