Dynamics of the North American continent

This research theme addresses the tectonic evolution of the North American continent. Geotop focuses on key regions, namely Labrador and Abitibi for their mining potential, and the Appalachian/St. Lawrence rift system, which are active seismic zones where tectonics could have significantly influenced the distribution of energy resources in the lowlands. Studies will use an innovating approach combining new seismic imaging data data of the lithosphere, structural geology, isotopic geochemistry and thermochronology. The results of this mainly fundamental research will bring elements that are essential to the identification and cartography of mineral and energy resources, and to the understanding of seismic activity in southern Québec and the more recent evolution of the landscape during the Cenozoic (65 Ma to present day).