Information

March 21, 2025

Website Open!

Objectives

Our comprehension of how the physicochemical and geochemical properties of rocks, in conjunction with microbiological and biogeochemical factors, influence and govern their mechanical behavior remains inadequate. To unravel the complex interplay between microbial activity in rocks, their mechanical properties, and geo-hazards, the establishment of a novel field 'bio-rock mechanics' is essential. This workshop aims to explore key themes within bio-rock mechanics, highlighting the significant role this emerging discipline plays in advancing the field of rock mechanics and fostering international collaboration in this critical area of research. The topics for discussion are as follows:

T1. Bioremediation and biodegradation of rock materials
Studies, including literature reviews, on methods for repairing cracks through the use of microorganisms, and research on the relationship between rock weathering and biological processes, as well as various parameters affecting the rate of weathering.

T2. Bioerosion of rock materials
Studies, including literature reviews, on physical and/or chemical erosion of materials by organisms. For example, the physical and/or chemical breakdown of rock materials by organisms such as shells, insects, corals, and others.

T3. Biomarker-based assessment of crustal movement and tectonic implications
Studies, including literature reviews, on methods for evaluating crustal movement using the remains and traces of organisms, such as fossils, as indicators/bio-markers.

T4. Evaluation of the internal structure of rocks affected by organisms
Studies, including literature reviews, on methods for evaluating and analyzing various surveys and experimental results, such as X-ray image analysis and simulations.

Flyer is Here.

Keynote Lectures

Dr. Xiaohao Sun, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, China
Dr. Meghna Sharma, National Institute of Technology Hamirpur, India

Date, Venue and Fee

Date : 26-27 November 2025
Venue : 50th Anniversary Memorial Hall, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan
Format : In-person and Online
Fee : In-person: General 10,000 JPY, Student 3,000 JPY
: Online: General 5,000 JPY, Student Free

Abstract and Participation Submission

This workshop welcomes paper submissions with no page limit. A template will be provided to applicants separately. Interested authors are encouraged to submit an abstract (up to 300 words in English) via the application form below. The workshop will be held in a hybrid format, combining in-person and online participation. If the number of submissions exceeds capacity, priority will be given to in-person participants. Those wishing to attend without submitting a paper are also welcome.

Abstract Submission: https://forms.gle/nQrm2V2SAS1ypDrZA.

Important Dates

April 1, 2025 Abstract Submission Begin
June 1, 2025 Abstracts Due
June 15, 2025 Paper Invitations Begin
September 1, 2025 Paper Submission Due
September 1, 2025 Registration Open
October 15, 2025 Participation Due
November 1, 2025 Registration Ends
November 26-27, 2025 Workshop Days

Organizers

General Chair
Hitoshi Matsubara, University of the Ryukyus, Japan

Scientific Advisory Committee
Ömer Aydan, University of the Ryukyus, Japan
Takashi Ito, University of the Ryukyus, Japan
Resat Ulusay, Hacettepe University, Turkey
Seokwon Jeon, Seoul National University, Korea
Ki-Bok Min, Seoul National University, Korea

Organizing Committee
Sivakumar Gowthaman, Kyushu University, Japan
Halil Kumsar, Pamukkale University, Turkey
Nazli Tunar Özcan, Hacettepe University, Turkey
Daisuke Asahina, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Japan
Toshifumi Mukunoki, Kumamoto University, Japan
Nicolas Lenoir, University of Grenoble Alpes, France