The evolution of land surfaces is partly cause by the erosion, transport and deposition of sediment. My research aims to understand the origin and evolution of landscapes, using the tools of fluid mechanics. I am particularly interested in aeolian and fluvial transport of sediments. To do this, I use a multi-method approach (theoretical/numerical analysis, laboratory experiments and field measurements). The use of simplified laboratory experiments allows me to limit the complexity of natural systems by identifying the main mechanisms controlling sediment transport. Once these physical laws are established, I apply them to natural data to explain the morphology of the observed landscapes, and to predict their evolution.
In this seminar, I will present two examples of the application of my work. An experimental study highlighting the influence of input conditions (water and sediment flows, sediment properties) on the morphology of fluvial deposits (i.e. alluvial fan), as well as a theoretical analysis coupled with field measurements to understand the mechanisms of dune initiation.