The goal of this course is to obtain a detailed understanding of the physical properties, structure, and dynamical behavior of the mantle-lithosphere system, focusing mainly on Earth but also discussing how these processes occur differently in other terrestrial planets.

Introduction to programming the Finite Element Method (FEM) in 1D and 2D.

The course is based on reading and understanding research papers. Topics vary and cover e.g. planetary geophysics, geochemistry and dynamics including new results from space missions or models of the dynamical evolution of planetary bodies as well as planet and solar system formation.Each selected research paper is presented by a student, who then also leads an open discussion on the topic.