Research on earthquake ground motions by Gail Atkinson, a Western University Earth Sciences professor, has been used in hazard and risk assessments around the world.
She has participated in seismic hazard analyses for many major engineering projects, being active in the development of seismic design regulations for buildings and critical structures such as dams and nuclear power plants. She also works with real-time alerting systems, which can be used for rapid assessment and mitigation of earthquake effects.
Prof. Atkinson’s recent research focus is on hazards and mitigation strategies related to induced seismicity from unconventional oil and gas development. In 2018, she received a Hellmuth Prize, which recognizes faculty members with outstanding international reputations for their research.
