Podcast appearances and mentions of andrew geary

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Best podcasts about andrew geary

Latest podcast episodes about andrew geary

Seismic Soundoff
Why SEG Is Building a Home for Mining Geophysics

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2026 30:04


"That's what we're trying to achieve with this forum: bringing all the people together with different backgrounds and create this community, which I don't think fully exists right now.” Jiajia Sun and Nadine Veillette preview SEG's first Critical Minerals Forum for the mining community in North America. Critical minerals are becoming more important to energy systems, supply chains, and public policy, but finding them still depends on difficult subsurface decisions. The conversation shows why geophysics matters when it is integrated with geology, geochemistry, drilling, and uncertainty. For students and working geophysicists, this is a growing area where technical skill, communication, and practical decision-making all matter. Learn more about the Critical Minerals Forum at https://seg.org/calendar_events/critical-minerals-forum/. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Integration is now central to critical mineral exploration: Geophysics is most useful when it helps test geological ideas, reduce uncertainty, and guide better decisions about where to collect data or drill. > Mining creates a different mindset for geophysicists: Compared with oil and gas, mineral exploration often works with sparser drilling, smaller budgets, and more variable geological systems. > Critical minerals are opening new career paths: The field needs geophysicists who can combine imaging, inversion, AI, geology, communication, and decision-focused workflows. ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
The Human Side of Volcano Monitoring

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 33:22


"I feel like we are making a change in the way that people now see the volcanoes and see the earthquakes in El Salvador. So in that sense, I think we are making a a big change.” Adonay Martinez Coto and Susana Delgado discuss their Geoscientists Without Borders project to improve seismic monitoring around Santa Ana volcano in El Salvador. Their work shows how geophysics can move beyond instruments and data to help communities understand hazards, prepare for future activity, and see science as part of daily life. The project also shows why community-centered geophysics matters: instruments in schools and local spaces can turn monitoring into education, awareness, and preparedness. For listeners, it is a clear example of how applied geoscience can serve people before the next disaster happens. LINKS * Learn more about GWB and donate today at https://seg.org/programs/geoscientists-without-borders/ * Learn more about Adonay and Susana's work at https://seg.org/gwb_projects/el-salvador/ KEY TAKEAWAYS > Community trust is part of the science: Volcano monitoring becomes more valuable when schools, local businesses, agencies, and residents understand why the instruments are there and how the data can help them. > Better data can change preparedness: A stronger seismic network near Santa Ana volcano can help scientists distinguish between tectonic and volcanic earthquakes, improving awareness of what may be happening beneath the surface. > Field geophysics requires more than technical training: The project pushed students to learn instrumentation, networking, communication, and community engagement, showing where future workforce needs are growing. ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
How Geophysics Connects Curiosity, Science, and Career Opportunity

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 23:19


“If you're curious about geophysics, there's definitely a place in geophysics for you. The field is so interdisciplinary.” Johanna Villagomez joins Andrew Geary to share how curiosity, fieldwork, student leadership, and outreach are shaping her path as a PhD student in geophysics at the University of Houston. Her story shows why applied geophysics matters now: the field connects directly to water, energy, climate, critical minerals, and the decisions communities make about the subsurface. For students, she makes the field feel open and reachable, while also being honest about the skills that matter most, including coding, fundamentals, communication, and collaboration. As AI, larger datasets, and new sensing tools change the profession, the future belongs to geophysicists who can understand the science and explain why it matters. Explore SEG student programs to find scholarships, mentorship, student chapters, and opportunities to build your path in geophysics at https://seg.org/programs/student-programs/. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Fieldwork creates ownership: Collecting seismic data in the field gives students a deeper connection to the full geophysical workflow, from instruments to interpretation. > AI raises the value of fundamentals: Coding and machine learning matter, but geophysicists still need strong quantitative skills to know when an answer is wrong. > Communication is a technical skill: Whether speaking to policymakers, students, or other geophysicists, clear explanations help science reach the people who need it. ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
What Geophysicists Gain by Attending URTeC

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2026 25:36


"Integration, literally, that's why the URTeC is successful.” Marianne Rauch joins Andrew Geary to explain why URTeC 2026 matters for geophysicists who want their work to shape real field decisions. She argues that the event's strength is integration: geology, geophysics, drilling, production, land, service companies, and operators in the same place. That matters now because unconventional development is increasingly driven by better data, AI, cost pressure, and the need to connect technical products to practical outcomes. For students and early-career professionals, the message is direct: broader knowledge can create better ideas, better collaboration, and stronger career options. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Integration drives impact: Geophysical work matters most when engineers, geologists, and production teams understand how to use it in real decisions. > Application is the opportunity: URTeC gives geophysicists a practical view of how seismic attributes, rock properties, pressure estimates, and other products influence drilling and production > AI needs physics and judgment: Emerging tools may change how teams choose locations, drill wells, and manage production, but Marianne warns that AI cannot be trusted blindly. LINKS * Learn more about URTeC -> https://urtec.org/2026/ * Register for the event (22-24 June 2026, Houston, TX, USA) -> https://platform.tpni.com/GcmMaintenance/aapg/Html_Files/30000107/landing.html ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
Why Geophysicists Are Paying More Attention to Groundwater

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2026 28:06


“The concept of mapping the aquifer from the sky, that's gigantic. It could change how aquifers are managed around the world.” Seogi Kang and Mike Wilt explain why groundwater is becoming one of the most important growth areas in applied geophysics. As drought, population growth, and water demand increase, geophysicists are being asked harder questions about where water is stored and how aquifers can be managed more sustainably. They share how airborne EM, well data, and machine learning are helping researchers see the subsurface in new ways, while also admitting that turning more data into better decisions is still a major challenge. For students and working geophysicists, this field offers both urgent problems and growing career opportunities. Read the March 2026 special section, "Advances in geophysics for groundwater applications," at https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/tle/issue/45/3. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Groundwater is becoming a bigger challenge for geophysics: More communities need better answers about where water is stored, how aquifers connect, and how to manage them before shortages grow worse. > Better tools do not automatically mean better decisions: Airborne EM, well logs, and machine learning can improve subsurface understanding, but combining those datasets into something people trust is still difficult. > This field needs more geophysicists: Groundwater applications are growing quickly, creating opportunities for students and professionals who want to work on problems with direct public impact. ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
The Hidden Opportunity in Critical Minerals That Geophysicists Can't Ignore

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2026 26:17


“We all realize that we need a lot more mineral resources in the next two decades. And we realized that geophysics can play a critical role.” Sarah Devriese and Jiajia Sun explain why demand for critical minerals is rising fast while new discoveries are getting harder to make. They show how geophysics now supports the full mining life cycle, from early airborne surveys to advanced 3D modeling and decision making. New ideas like AI, UAV surveys, and smarter sampling are quietly changing how exploration works and who succeeds. This moment creates a rare mix of urgency and opportunity for geophysicists and students entering the field. Read the November 2025 special section, "Geophysics for mineral exploration," at https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/tle/issue/44/11. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Critical minerals demand is surging while discovery is declining: This gap creates urgency and makes geophysics more valuable than ever in exploration workflows. > Integration is the real advantage: Combining geophysics with remote sensing, geology, and AI helps reduce uncertainty and leads to better decisions. > Career timing is unusually strong: The industry needs new talent now, creating a rare window where skills directly translate into jobs and impact. ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
OTC 2026 Emerging Leaders on the Future of Offshore Energy Collaboration

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2026 28:48


“Nothing can happen in a vacuum anymore. We need to have the developers talking to the geoscientists, talking to the environmental professionals.” Two OTC 2026 Emerging Leaders share why the future of offshore energy will be built through collaboration across geophysics, environmental science, AI, and engineering. Their stories reveal a powerful truth that many early career professionals overlook: the biggest breakthroughs often happen where disciplines meet and curiosity leads the conversation. As OTC approaches, their insights offer a compelling reason to join the people and ideas shaping what comes next. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Collaboration drives innovation: The most important advances in offshore energy now come from geophysicists, engineers, environmental scientists, and developers working together rather than in isolation. > Curiosity builds leadership: Asking questions, admitting what you do not know, and learning across disciplines are the traits that build trust and open doors to bigger opportunities. > OTC creates rare access: Few events bring so many decision-makers, innovators, and early career professionals into one place, making attendance a high-value opportunity for future growth. LINKS * Learn more OTC '26 - https://2026.otcnet.org/ * Register for the event (4-7 May 2026) - https://2026.otcnet.org/registration * See the Emerging Leaders Class of 2026 - https://2026.otcnet.org/awards/otc-emerging-leaders-program ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
Why Seismic Acquisition Is Making a Quiet Comeback

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2026 27:18


"What has happened in the last few years is exploration overall has taken a little bit of a backseat. So they are starting to relook at seismic acquisition to explore new areas and solve more complex challenges." Seismic acquisition is entering a new phase where better design and smarter technology are quietly changing how we see the subsurface. New methods like full wavefield recording, DAS, and blended acquisition are not just improvements, they are opening paths to solve problems that once seemed out of reach. As the easy resources disappear and new energy needs grow, those who understand these shifts early will have a clear advantage. In this context, we are joined by Shivaji Maitra, guest editor of The Leading Edge special section on advances in seismic acquisition, whose insights help frame where the field is headed next. Read the February 2026 special section, "Advances in seismic acquisition," at https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/tle/issue/45/2. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Better acquisition leads to better decisions: The real breakthrough is not one tool, but smarter survey design that improves imaging and reduces uncertainty at the reservoir level. > Dense and full wavefield data are becoming essential: Technologies like OBN and DAS are unlocking details in complex reservoirs that were previously invisible. > Fundamentals still matter in a high-tech world: Strong physics knowledge is the hidden advantage that allows geophysicists to use AI and new tools effectively. ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
From Hype to Reality: What Machine Learning Can Actually Do

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2026 27:01


“You can't be stationary in this field. I've never seen anything like it." Machine learning is changing geophysics faster than most people expected, but knowing what actually works versus what is hype is still unclear. Jerry Schuster explains why combining physics, intuition, and hands-on coding is the real advantage that many overlook. He also reveals a surprising shift where AI can act like a “free graduate student,” opening new possibilities while raising important questions about creativity and the future of work. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Big picture plus hands-on learning is the real advantage: Understanding concepts is not enough, doing the work yourself is what turns knowledge into lasting skill. > Physics and machine learning are stronger together: Combining both approaches can outperform either one alone, giving geophysicists a powerful edge. > AI is a tool, not a replacement: Used well, it expands your abilities and speeds up work, but creative thinking still depends on you. LINKS * Practical Machine Learning Methods in Geosciences 2026 virtual (China time zone): 12-13 May -> https://seg.org/shop/product/?id%20=product&id=d7c3ffd8-f69a-f011-b41b-6045bda9b090 * Practical Machine Learning Methods in Geosciences 2026 virtual (North America Time zone): 19-20 May -> https://seg.org/shop/product/?id%20=product&id=c92e0916-51fd-f011-8406-7c1e525c17aa * Buy Machine Learning Methods in Geoscience by Gerard Schuster, featuring hands-on MATLAB and Colab labs. -> https://library.seg.org/doi/epdf/10.1190/1.9781560804048.fm * Listen to his previous interview on his book, Machine Learning Methods in Geoscience -> https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-249-machine-learning-methods-in-geoscience/ GUEST BIO Gerard Schuster has an M.S. (1982) and a Ph.D. (1984) from Columbia University and was a postdoctoral researcher there from 1984 to 1985. From 1985 to 2009, he was a professor of geophysics at the University of Utah and became a professor of geophysics at KAUST (2009–2021). He is currently a research professor at the University of Utah. He received several teaching and research awards while at the University of Utah. He was editor of GEOPHYSICS 2004–2005 and was awarded SEG's Virgil Kauffman Gold Medal in 2010 for his work in seismic interferometry. SEG published Gerard's book Seismic Inversion in late 2017 and Machine Learning Methods in Geoscience in 2024. ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
DAS and Seismic Innovation: What Geophysicists Need to Know

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2026 27:21


"For early career geophysicists, I think it's really important to understand that DAS is going to have a unique role in reservoir management, be it onshore or offshore." Distributed acoustic sensing is opening new possibilities for how geophysicists collect and use seismic data. Ali Tura shares practical insights from his experience and highlights how these ideas will be explored further in his upcoming course on DAS applications. He explains how the technology's sensitivity, wide frequency range, and cost advantages make it valuable, while also emphasizing the importance of understanding its limitations. Learn more and register for the course (13-16 July 2026) at https://seg.org/shop/product/?id=product&id=ed9c4ebc-48dc-f011-8544-7c1e525cc2b5. KEY TAKEAWAYS > DAS sensitivity and bandwidth: DAS can detect extremely small signals across a very wide frequency range, making it useful for everything from geomechanics to seismic monitoring. > Cost and operational efficiency: Using existing fiber optic infrastructure allows teams to run surveys at much lower cost, especially for repeated monitoring like 4D seismic or CO2 storage. > Fit-for-purpose application: DAS is powerful but not universal, so success depends on choosing the right use case, deployment method, and survey design. GUEST BIO Ali Tura is Professor of Geophysics and Co-director of the Reservoir Characterization Project at Colorado School of Mines. His expertise is in the areas of petroleum systems, reservoir characterization and monitoring, seismic methods, CO2 and sequestration, fiber optics technology, and data analytics. He is also Chief Scientist at Tulip Geosciences, a geosciences consulting and training company. Before this, he was Geophysical Senior Fellow at ConocoPhillips, Geophysical Advisor at Chevron, and 4D subject matter expert at Shell. He has been an SEG member and active in the industry for more than 37 years and served as SEG Vice-president, Board of Directors of SEG-SEAM Inc., Chairman of the SEG Research Committee, Chairman of the Editorial Board of The Leading Edge, and Chairman of the SEG Global Affairs Committee. ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
From Oil and Gas to Offshore Wind: Why Everyone Meets at OTC

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2026 29:39


“And what the world really needs is this flexibility on energy and the agility to ensure access and affordability. And that's where steering the offshore energy business is really critical.” Offshore energy is evolving quickly as global demand grows and new technologies emerge across oil and gas, offshore wind, and other energy systems. Alex Martinez and Joe Reilly discuss why the Offshore Technology Conference remains one of the most important places for engineers, geoscientists, and industry leaders to collaborate and share ideas. OTC 2026 in Houston (4-7 May 2026) brings the full offshore energy community together to explore solutions that will shape a reliable and sustainable energy future. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Rising global energy demand is driving offshore innovation. Growing energy needs are pushing companies to improve efficiency and develop new technologies across both traditional offshore oil and gas and emerging energy solutions. > OTC creates a unique space for cross-disciplinary collaboration. Experts from many technical fields come together to share ideas and solve complex offshore energy challenges. > Geoscientists play an important role in the future of offshore energy. Understanding the subsurface remains critical for oil and gas, offshore wind, and carbon storage projects. LINKS * Learn more OTC '26 - https://2026.otcnet.org/ * Register for the event (4-7 May 2026) - https://2026.otcnet.org/registration ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
Applying Near-Surface Geophysics to Agricultural Challenges

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2026 26:36


“It's not only about discovering resources, but about safeguarding them and safeguarding our future. When you understand the subsurface, you understand the foundation of food security, water security, and environmental stability.” Ahmed Elshenawy, SEG's 2026 Middle East and Africa Honorary Lecturer, explores how geophysics can help solve some of today's biggest challenges in agriculture and environmental management. In this conversation, he explains how imaging the shallow subsurface can reveal hidden patterns of soil moisture, salinity, and groundwater movement that shape farming success. His work shows how understanding what lies beneath our feet may be key to sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and the future of food and water security. Learn more about Ahmed's lecture and register for his 12 March webinar - https://seg.org/education/lectures/seg-honorary-lecture-ahmed-elshenawy/ KEY TAKEAWAYS > Geophysical tools can map soil moisture, salinity, and subsurface conditions that directly affect agriculture and water management. > The same methods used in energy and mineral exploration can support sustainability, land restoration, and climate adaptation. > Students who combine geophysics with hydrology, soil science, and data science will find growing career opportunities in environmental and agricultural applications. GUEST BIO Since 2000, Ahmed has been involved as a research team member of several national, international, and private projects regarding the application of geophysical methods for groundwater exploration, water management, aquifer characterization, desertification process monitoring, sustainable development, engineering, geotechnical and environmental problems. He's conducted intensive data acquisition, processing, modeling, and interpretation of geoelectric and electromagnetic (VES, 2D/3D ERT, SP, IP/SIP, VLF, TDEM, and MT), geomagnetic and seismic refraction measurements as well as petrophysical measurements on both field and laboratory scale in Egypt, UK, and USA. Currently Ahmed is CEO of the Egyptian team of the project: Sustainable Approaches to Water and Soil Management for Drylands in the Mediterranean Basin (SALM-MED) funded by the European Union's Programme for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA). ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
Inside the Workflow - Unsupervised Machine Learning for Seismic Interpretation

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 35:45


“The major pitfall of machine learning of any kind is to be overly confident in the results. We run the risk of garbage in gospel out.” This discussion offers a rare chance to go a little deeper into a Leading Edge article and hear directly from the authors about the thinking behind their workflow. Satinder Chopra and Kurt Marfurt walk through how unsupervised machine learning, careful attribute selection, and simple preprocessing steps can reveal subtle channel features in a deepwater New Zealand example. It feels less like a theory lesson and more like practical guidance on using machine learning as a helpful partner in everyday seismic interpretation. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Small workflow choices have big impact. Clean input data, thoughtful attribute selection, and simple normalization steps often determine whether machine learning highlights geology or just amplifies noise. > The value is in the combination of tools and judgment. Unsupervised methods quickly expose patterns, but interpreters still need to compare results with seismic sections, wells, and regional context to confirm what is real. > PCA and SOM make complex attribute sets easier to explore. By reducing dozens of attributes into clearer clusters, they help interpreters see channel shapes and reservoir variability that might otherwise be overlooked. LINKS * Read the December 2025 special section - https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/tle/issue/44/12 * Seismic characterization with unsupervised machine learning applications for facies classification by Satinder Chopra and Kurt Marfurt - https://doi.org/10.1190/tle44120934.1 ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
Why High-Performance Computing Is No Longer Optional in Geophysics

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2026 21:12


“I think that for geophysicists out there, people need to realize that it's an integrated career path. You can't separate the geophysics from the HPC anymore, if we ever did to begin with.” High-performance computing is becoming more important as seismic data grows in size and complexity. This episode highlights the January The Leading Edge special section on high-performance computing. Guest editors Madhav Vyas and Elizabeth L'Heureux share their perspective on GPUs, CPUs, AI tools, and better algorithms in geophysics, and they stress that future success depends on combining geophysical knowledge with strong computational skills. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Modern seismic imaging depends on both advanced physics and powerful, well-chosen computing hardware. > Data movement and system architecture can limit performance as much as raw processing speed. > Geophysicists increasingly need programming and computational science skills alongside domain expertise. LINKS * Read the January 2026 special section, High-performance computing in geophysics - https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/tle/issue/45/1 * Introduction to this special section: High-performance computing in geophysics by Madhav Vyas; Elizabeth L'Heureux; Raj Gautam - https://doi.org/10.1190/tle-4501-SS01 ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
From Classroom to Community: A GWB Project Tackles Groundwater Contamination

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2026 32:37


“This project really bridged the gap that we get from just learning in university and actually doing it in real life. It is actually making an impact on society.” Stella Eulia Andoka and Michael Partogi share how their student team used applied geophysical tools to investigate groundwater contamination affecting more than 2,600 families living near the Cipayung landfill in Indonesia. With support from the SEG Foundation and Geoscientists Without Borders, the project expanded beyond data collection to include community education and engagement with residents, schools, and local decision-makers. Their work shows how resourceful, student-led teams can deliver meaningful, real-world impact through applied geoscience. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Student-led geophysics projects can have a direct impact on community awareness and local decision-making. > Modest funding can deliver strong returns when teams work creatively and efficiently. > Applied geophysics becomes more powerful when paired with education and community trust. LINKS * Learn more about this GWB project at https://seg.org/gwb_projects/indonesia/ * Donate to the SEG Foundation at https://seg.org/donate/ ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
What It Takes to Trust AI in Real-World Seismic Applications

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2026 26:42


“Deep learning is ubiquitous in data processing. The question is whether we have the courage to change the way we work.” Yangkang Chen discusses how deep learning has moved from experimentation to production in seismic processing and earthquake monitoring. Drawing on a decade-long effort to build an operational AI-driven monitoring system, he explains why tasks like first-arrival picking, velocity analysis, denoising, and reconstruction are especially well suited for deep learning. Yangkang emphasizes that success depends not just on algorithms, but on benchmarks, stability, teamwork, and trust. He also highlights how open and reproducible research lowers barriers for adoption and helps geophysicists apply AI confidently in real workflows. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Deep learning excels at repetitive, label-intensive seismic tasks that are slow and inconsistent using traditional methods. > Operational AI requires trust, built through benchmarks, validation, and a clear understanding of model behavior. > Open and reproducible workflows accelerate adoption, collaboration, and innovation across the geophysics community. Register for his course, Deep learning for revolutionizing seismic data processing, on March 24-25, 2026 at https://seg.org/shop/product/?id+=product&id=5c3b6821-549d-f011-b41b-7c1e521913ef. ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
Two Trillion-Dollar Ideas Leon Thomsen Tried to Give Away

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2026 31:14


“Oil company management has to understand that its business is essentially a technology business. It's not a marketing business.” In this episode of Seismic Soundoff, Andrew Geary speaks with Dr. Leon Thomsen about his memoir, “‘Surely You're Joking, Mr. Thomsen!': Adventures of a Petroleum Scientist,” and a career that helped redefine applied geophysics. Leon reflects on the experiences that shaped his scientific mindset, from early exposure to field crews, to formative lessons in geology at Caltech, to decades of research in academia and industry. He explains how curiosity-driven exploration led him to recognize the importance of seismic anisotropy and shear-wave technology, work that ultimately carried trillion-dollar implications for hydrocarbon exploration. The conversation also explores why transformative ideas often struggle inside large organizations, how a lack of technological literacy in management can lead to missed opportunities, and why applied science can be every bit as creative and demanding as pure research. Looking ahead, Leon shares his perspective on the future of applied geophysics, including opportunities in fracking optimization, carbon sequestration monitoring, and subsurface hydrogen exploration, and offers encouragement to young scientists preparing to navigate the energy transition. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Energy is a technology business: Long-term success depends on leadership that understands and trusts science, not just short-term metrics. > Applied science is real science: Solving practical problems can be as intellectually challenging and rewarding as purely theoretical work. > The next frontier is subsurface innovation: Geophysics will play a critical role in fracking efficiency, CO₂ monitoring, and hydrogen exploration during the energy transition. LINKS * Buy Leon's memoir - https://seg.org/shop/product/?id=fe4953e4-cc89-f011-b4cb-7c1e527dc295 * Buy his previous book, "Understanding Seismic Anisotropy in Exploration and Exploitation" - https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/seg/books/book/1042/Understanding-Seismic-Anisotropy-in-Exploration * Read Leon's award-winning article: "A logical error in Gassmann poroelasticity" - https://www.earthdoc.org/content/journals/10.1111/1365-2478.13290 ABOUT SEISMIC SOUNDOFF Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. Produced by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and hosted by Andrew Geary of 51 features, these episodes celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. Three new episodes monthly. See the full archive at https://seg.org/resources/podcast/.

Seismic Soundoff
How Distributed Chemical Sensing Could Rewrite the Rules of Risk Management

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 26:46


“Distributed chemical sensing really is the next frontier in fiber-optic monitoring. It adds a new dimension by directly connecting chemical changes in the environment to signals we can read.” Distributed chemical sensing (DCS) is an emerging technology that utilizes fiber optics to measure chemical changes over long distances in real-time. Authors Christian Totland, Thomas Dylan Mikesell, and Peter James Thomas join host Andrew Geary to discuss their new paper, "Distributed chemical sensing: An unexplored frontier in urban, industrial, and environmental monitoring." Unlike traditional point sensors, which only capture data at one location, DCS has the potential to provide continuous chemical information with both high spatial and temporal resolution. This innovation could transform how we monitor pipelines, groundwater, and industrial sites, while also opening new opportunities for collaboration between geophysics, chemistry, and material science. KEY TAKEAWAYS > DCS can detect leaks, contamination, and chemical changes directly, offering more accurate monitoring than pressure or temperature proxies. > The technology is still in its early stages, which means there are many opportunities for research, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. > If developed further, DCS could provide affordable, real-time monitoring for critical infrastructure and environmental systems worldwide. LINKS * Christian Totland, Thomas Dylan Mikesell, and Peter James Thomas, (2025), "Distributed chemical sensing: An unexplored frontier in urban, industrial, and environmental monitoring," The Leading Edge 44: 598–605. - https://doi.org/10.1190/tle44080598.1 * Learn more about this special section on urban and infrastructure geophysics - https://library.seg.org/doi/10.1190/tle44080587.1 * Listen to Haipeng Li's interview (also from this special section) - https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-271-the-low-cost-seismic-revolution-already-buried-in-your-city/

Seismic Soundoff
Searching for Water in Kakuma: A GWB Story (Re-Release)

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 43:25


For this episode, we're re‑releasing one of the most powerful stories we've ever told - a complete listening experience that transports you to one of the most remote and challenging places on Earth. Searching for Water in Kakuma takes you inside the second‑largest refugee camp in the world, home to more than 185,000 people and still growing. There, a team of Canadian geophysicists joined forces with determined refugees and locals to take on a life‑or‑death challenge: finding safe, sustainable water for tens of thousands in East Africa. This episode offers an unflinching look at the obstacles, breakthroughs, and human resilience at the heart of applied geophysics. If you're new to Seismic Soundoff, we're glad you've chosen to listen. This podcast shares stories that connect geoscience to real‑world impact - from breakthrough research and innovative technology to the people applying them to solve Earth's toughest challenges. Starting September 11, we'll release three brand‑new interviews every week, bringing you fresh voices and powerful stories from across the geoscience community. For now, please enjoy this deeply personal and meaningful story. For show notes - including a full transcript, photos, and links to explore the Kakuma water project and Paul Bauman's work - visit seg.org/podcast/Post/6368. To listen to other GWB podcasts, visit https://seg.org/podcast_tag/geoscientists-without-borders/. GEOSCIENTISTS WITHOUT BORDERS® Get involved with Geoscientists without Borders! Visit the GWB website at https://seg.org/gwb to learn about funded projects, donate, or apply to lead a project. Whether you are a student, researcher, or industry professional, your skills and support can make a significant difference. SPONSOR Schlumberger strives to be a unifying force for social and environmental stewardship, and engages in philanthropic activities that reflect the company's values. As the founding sponsor of Geoscientists Without Borders®, Schlumberger believes in the science of geophysics to effect positive changes in communities facing environmental hardship and natural hazards. INTERVIEWS Paul Bauman, Landon Woods, Erin Ernst, Doug MacLean, Franklin Koch, Brendan O'Brien, Alastair McClymont Music in the episode courtesy of Epidemic Sound. Additional sound was provided by Brendan O'Brien. This episode was hosted, edited, and produced by Andrew Geary. Thank you to the SEG podcast team - Jennifer Crockett, Beth Donica, Ally McGinnis, Mick Swiney, and Adrienne White, as well as SEG staff Katie Burk and Linda Ford.

Seismic Soundoff
Bill Langin - Exploration and Development Leader (Inside IMAGE)

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 8:54


Bill shares how reconnecting with colleagues fuels collaboration and why sustainable energy means balancing oil, gas, and new sources to meet global needs. He discusses progress in reducing carbon impact, the urgent need to attract top talent, and takes pride in contributing to technologies that shape everyday life. Get a front-row seat to the conversations shaping the geosciences. Inside IMAGE is a special series from Seismic Soundoff, SEG's flagship podcast hosted by Andrew Geary, now in its 10th year. This limited-edition series takes you behind the scenes of IMAGE, the premier geoscience event, with exclusive interviews and in-depth discussions. Stay connected at www.imageevent.org/.

exploration development leader andrew geary
Seismic Soundoff
Karelia La Marca - Geophysicist at bp (Inside IMAGE)

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 16:46


Karelia La Marca shares how her passion for geophysics has taken her from the classroom to exciting fieldwork around the world. She offers an encouraging tip for first-timers while explaining the skills and teamwork that make science stronger. Get a front-row seat to the conversations shaping the geosciences. Inside IMAGE is a special series from Seismic Soundoff, SEG's flagship podcast hosted by Andrew Geary, now in its 10th year. This limited-edition series takes you behind the scenes of IMAGE, the premier geoscience event, with exclusive interviews and in-depth discussions. Learn more at https://www.imageevent.org/.

la marca karelia geophysicist andrew geary
Seismic Soundoff
Adriana Citlali Ramírez - SEG Second Vice President (Inside IMAGE)

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 21:19


Adriana reflects on the power of connection across science, industry, and academia, as well as the importance of listening to the needs of its members. She explores how geoscientists can expand into new energy solutions, support students' career paths, and use storytelling to engage the public and strengthen the community's impact. Get a front-row seat to the conversations shaping the geosciences. Inside IMAGE is a special series from Seismic Soundoff, SEG's flagship podcast hosted by Andrew Geary, now in its 10th year. This limited-edition series takes you behind the scenes of IMAGE, the premier geoscience event, with exclusive interviews and in-depth discussions. Stay connected at https://www.imageevent.org/.

citlali second vice president andrew geary
Seismic Soundoff
Lars Koehn - EVOLVE, Young Professional (Inside IMAGE)

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2025 18:40


Get a front-row seat to the conversations shaping the geosciences. Inside IMAGE is a special series from Seismic Soundoff, SEG's flagship podcast hosted by Andrew Geary, now in its 10th year. This limited-edition series takes you behind the scenes of IMAGE, the premier geoscience event, with exclusive interviews and in-depth discussions. Geoscientist Lars Koehn shares how his journey from student to young professional fuels his passion for clean energy and carbon storage. He reflects on the power of networking, mentorship, and collaboration at IMAGE, where new technologies and ideas shape the future of geoscience. And it's not too late to join the event driving innovation in Earth science. Learn more at https://www.imageevent.org/.

Seismic Soundoff
Molly Turko - AAPG Technical Program Co-Chair (Inside IMAGE)

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2025 16:16


Get a front-row seat to the conversations shaping the geosciences. Inside IMAGE is a special series from Seismic Soundoff, SEG's flagship podcast hosted by Andrew Geary, now in its 10th year. This limited-edition series takes you behind the scenes of IMAGE, the premier geoscience event, with exclusive interviews and in-depth discussions. Structural geologist Molly Turko shares why she loves the diversity of ideas and people at IMAGE, from AI applications to new fault-picking methods. She highlights how collaboration across disciplines sparks fresh insights and why these conversations make geoscience both motivating and fun. And it's not too late to join the event driving innovation in Earth science. Learn more at https://www.imageevent.org/.

ai earth co chair structural turko technical program aapg andrew geary
Seismic Soundoff
Alison Malcolm - Vice President, SEG Publications (Inside IMAGE)

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2025 7:54


Get a front-row seat to the conversations shaping the geosciences. Inside IMAGE is a special series from Seismic Soundoff, SEG's flagship podcast hosted by Andrew Geary, now in its 10th year. This limited-edition series takes you behind the scenes of IMAGE, the premier geoscience event, with exclusive interviews and in-depth discussions. Alison Malcolm, SEG's incoming VP for Publications, joins us to share why IMAGE's mix of academia and industry, along with its broad technical themes, makes it a vibrant space for connection and idea‑sharing. And it's not too late to join the event driving innovation in Earth science. Learn more at https://www.imageevent.org/.

Seismic Soundoff
Bunmi Elebiju - SEG Technical Program Vice Chair (Inside IMAGE)

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2025 9:25


Get a front-row seat to the conversations shaping the geosciences. Inside IMAGE is a special series from Seismic Soundoff, SEG's flagship podcast hosted by Andrew Geary, now in its 10th year. This limited-edition series takes you behind the scenes of IMAGE, the premier geoscience event, with exclusive interviews and in-depth discussions. As Vice Chair of the IMAGE 2025 Technical Program, Bunmi Elebiju highlights the event's multidisciplinary and global nature, with over 1,100 presentations, interactive exhibits, and strategic networking opportunities, as a catalyst for shaping the future of the energy industry. And it's not too late to join the event driving innovation in Earth science. Learn more at https://www.imageevent.org/.

earth vice chair bunmi technical program andrew geary
Seismic Soundoff
From Differences to Inversion: A New Era for 4D Seismic

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 26:19


“Repeatability is the biggest hurdle in time-lapse monitoring, but it's also where the opportunity lies. 4D FWI can help address those repeatability challenges.” On this episode, Andrew Geary sits down with Madhav Vyas and Kris Innanen, guest editors for July's The Leading Edge special section on 4D full-waveform inversion. They explain how 4D FWI goes beyond traditional differencing by fully inverting wavefields, making time-lapse seismic more robust against survey inconsistencies and complex overburden. Listeners will learn why now is the perfect time to adopt 4D FWI, the main technical hurdles around repeatability and uncertainty, and the first steps to take for reservoir monitoring and survey design. KEY TAKEAWAYS > 4D FWI inverts the full wavefield - reflections, refractions, diving waves, multiples - to detect reservoir changes, making it more robust than conventional 4D processing. > Repeatability of surveys and assessing uncertainty are the biggest challenges, but workflows like hypothesis testing, batch FWI, and null-space shuttling help mitigate inversion noise. > High-quality data and accurate physics (elasticity, attenuation, anisotropy) are essential; advances in GPU-driven computation enable faster iterations and richer uncertainty analysis. CALL TO ACTION Read July's The Leading Edge special section on 4D FWI at https://library.seg.org/toc/leedff/44/7, then explore an open-source FWI toolbox. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-265-from-differences-to-inversion-a-new-era-for-4d-seismic for the complete show notes.

Seismic Soundoff
261: Innovations in Land Seismic Acquisition with Andrea Crook

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2025 23:03


"We're seeing rapid advances both in seismic acquisition technologies and in processing techniques. In order to get data that is appropriate for full waveform inversion, you have to rethink how you're acquiring the data in the field." In this episode, host Andrew Geary speaks with Andrea Crook, CEO of OptiSeis and lead instructor of the IMAGE 2025 short course, Innovations in Land Seismic Acquisition. Andrea explores the seismic design landscape, breaking down how advances in sources, sensors, sampling, and sustainability are reshaping land acquisition. Listeners will walk away with practical strategies to enhance survey quality, minimize environmental impact, and more effectively connect acquisition with processing and interpretation. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Innovations in survey design, such as high-density Vibroseis and nodal systems, lead to improved data and safer operations. > Sustainability in seismic acquisition isn't just good for the planet - it also drives cost efficiency and long-term data value. > Course attendees will learn how to evaluate survey trade-offs, enhance trace density, and make informed decisions using real-world examples. CALL TO ACTION Ready to improve your surveys and future-proof your data? Sign up for Innovations in Land Seismic Acquisition at IMAGE 2025. This hands-on short course, led by Andrea Crook, covers the latest technologies, field-tested strategies, and real-world examples to boost your survey success. Separate registration is required; please reserve your spot at https://www.imageevent.org/short-courses/short-course-25/innovations-in-land-seismic-acquisition-seg. GUEST BIO Andrea Crook, P.Geoph., is the CEO of OptiSeis, a company she co-founded in 2011 to provide innovative solutions for accurate subsurface imaging. Andrea graduated from the University of Manitoba with a B.Sc. Honours in Geophysics and began her career at Shell Canada in seismic processing and geophysical operations. Based on her extensive contributions to the field of geophysics, she received the 2019 CSEG Technical Achievement Award and was the Society's 2023 Symposium Honouree. She is also on the Board of Directors for the Clean Resource Innovation Network (CRIN), was selected to present the 2024/25 CSEG Canadian Distinguished Lecture Tour, and is the recipient of both the 2019 and 2024 GeoConvention Best Paper Award. Through active collaboration with industry and academia, she and her team continue to develop innovative solutions for environmentally sustainable subsurface imaging. LINKS * Sign up for Innovations in Land Seismic Acquisition at IMAGE 2025 at https://www.imageevent.org/short-courses/short-course-25/innovations-in-land-seismic-acquisition-seg * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-261-innovations-in-land-seismic-acquisition-with-andrea-crook for all the resources mentioned in this episode.

Seismic Soundoff
260: Small Faults, Big Impact - Improving CCUS with Seismic Attributes

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 24:05


“The goal is to keep injected CO₂ safely in place - that's why understanding fault networks is so critical.” In this episode, host Andrew Geary welcomes David Lubo-Robles, lead author of The Leading Edge paper on detecting small-offset faults for carbon capture and storage (CCUS). David explains how advanced seismic attributes, without relying on machine learning, can help geoscientists better map faults that influence the movement of CO₂ underground. His insights demonstrate the importance of applied geophysics in enabling safer and smarter reservoir management in the era of climate solutions. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Advanced Seismic Attributes Matter: Multispectral coherence and volumetric aberrancy help visualize subtle faults often missed by traditional methods. > Fault Mapping Is Critical for CCUS: Understanding both large and small faults reduces geological risk and improves CO₂ storage safety. > Applied Geophysics Is Essential: From modeling to monitoring, geophysicists play a vital role in every stage of a successful CCUS project. CALL TO ACTION Want to dig deeper into how seismic attributes enhance fault detection for carbon storage? Read David's paper in The Leading Edge, “Detection of small-offset faults in seismic data: An application for carbon capture and storage.” Whether you're in CCUS, oil and gas, or geothermal, this workflow offers tools you can apply today. Read at https://doi.org/10.1190/tle44040276.1. GUEST BIO David Lubo-Robles is a Research Scientist and Algorithm and Computing Lead for the Attribute Assisted Seismic Processing & Interpretation (AASPI) Consortium at the University of Oklahoma. David received a B.S. in geophysical engineering from Simon Bolivar University, Venezuela, and an M.S. and Ph.D. in geophysics from the University of Oklahoma. His research interests include the development and application of innovative tools using artificial intelligence, quantitative interpretation, and seismic attribute analysis to delineate geologic features suitable for energy and climate solutions. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-260-small-faults-big-impact-improving-ccus-with-seismic-attributes for all the links mentioned in this episode.

Seismic Soundoff
259: Inside the Editor's Desk - Alison Malcolm on Leading SEG's Flagship Journal

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 34:12


"Publishing at a conference and publishing in GEOPHYSICS are quite different. The journal lets you go deeper and make your work reproducible and usable for others." In this insightful episode, host Andrew Geary speaks with Dr. Alison Malcolm, the former Editor-in-Chief of GEOPHYSICS, SEG's leading journal for applied geophysics. Alison demystifies the often misunderstood editorial process, shares highlights from her tenure, and offers heartfelt advice for authors, reviewers, and future editors. This conversation celebrates the dedicated volunteers behind the journal and sheds light on the upcoming transition to GeoScienceWorld. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Learn how a paper travels through the editorial process from submission to acceptance, including how volunteers play a key role at every stage. > Understand what makes a strong paper submission and how to stand out as a reviewer or future editor. > Explore how the journal is evolving with the transition to a new publishing platform and the impact of AI on the editing process. CALL TO ACTION Visit https://library.seg.org/action/showAlertSettings to sign up for the table of contents for GEOPHYSICS and other SEG publications. It's a great way to stay up to date with the latest technical innovations. And if you're interested in reviewing or editing for the journal, reach out to geopapers@seg.org - your voice and expertise can help shape the future of applied geophysics!

Seismic Soundoff
258: Drilling, DAS, and Disagreements - A Real Look at EGS Geophysics

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2025 41:07


“The difference now is horizontal wells, faster drilling, and better geophysics. That makes today's EGS attempts more promising than ever.” In this episode, host Andrew Geary talks with Michael Wilt and Bill Cumming, guest editors of the April 2025 The Leading Edge special section on geophysical applications to geothermal exploration and development. With decades of field experience, Bill and Michael dive into the lessons and findings from the U.S. Department of Energy's FORGE Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) research project and Fervo's Cape Modern EGS commercial project. The interview features thoughtful back-and-forth that reveals the complexity of emerging EGS techniques. They discuss how microseismic monitoring, DAS systems, P-wave velocity models, and well design are shaping the future of EGS development. Importantly, they share practical advice for how geophysicists and students can get involved in this rapidly evolving field. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Utah FORGE and Cape Modern are shaping the practical future of EGS, offering real data and insight into what works, what doesn't, and what still needs to be figured out. > Back-and-forth perspectives from Bill and Michael show that even experts are still navigating unknowns in EGS development, especially around velocity modeling, fiber reliability, and stimulation strategies. > Geophysics is critical in reducing uncertainty in geothermal projects, but models must be questioned and continuously updated as new data arrives. THIS EPISODE SPONSORED BY KATALYST DATA MANAGEMENT Katalyst Data Management® provides the only integrated, end-to-end subsurface data management solution for the oil and gas industry. Its employees operate in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and South America and are dedicated to optimizing the value of subsurface data, including seismic and well data. Katalyst enables clients' digital transformation of E&P data with digitizing services and digital transformation consulting. Learn more at www.katalystdm.com. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-258-drilling-das-and-disagreements-a-real-look-at-egs-geophysics for links to the articles in The Leading Edge.

Seismic Soundoff
256: Creating Value with 4D - Lessons from a Global Forum

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2025 21:12


“It's more than just getting data - it's about inspiring your organization to take action on it.” In this episode, host Andrew Geary talks with Adam Bucki, Co-Chair for the 4D Forum, held in Galveston, TX, in November 2024. The forum brought together geophysicists, engineers, and decision-makers to explore how 4D seismic can create value, reduce cycle times, and optimize production and injection in today's fast-moving energy landscape. Adam shares insights from keynotes, exciting tech advancements, and how the forum tackled the business and human side of getting 4D adopted across industries. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Real-world impact: Case studies from ConocoPhillips, ExxonMobil, and Chevron showcased how 4D seismic drives better decisions, from infill wells to carbon capture. > Tech meets people: New tools like FWI, fiber optics, and AI are exciting, but real change comes when people across companies are inspired to act on data. > Future-forward thinking: The forum highlighted the need for broader collaboration, especially with reservoir engineers, production teams, and management, to unlock 4D's full value. CALL TO ACTION Check out the 4D Forum abstracts on the SEG Library at https://library.seg.org/doi/book/10.1190/4D-Forum2024 to learn more about the tech, case studies, and ideas shaping the future of reservoir monitoring. If you're curious about getting involved or bringing 4D to your organization, email Debbie Mitchell directly at dmitchell@seg.org. SHARE THIS EPISODE If you found this episode helpful, please message a friend to listen. To help out, here's a possible message you could send them. This one dives into the real business case for 4D. Perfect for your next pitch to management! LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-256-creating-value-with-4d-lessons-from-a-global-forum for links to the abstracts and more information on the 4D Forum.

Seismic Soundoff
248: AI, FWI, and the Future of Subsurface Imaging

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2025 33:14


"Reservoir characterization has evolved beyond oil and gas. It's now central to our clean energy future." In this episode, Andrew Geary speaks with Satinder Chopra and Heather Bedle, guest editors for December's The Leading Edge special section on reservoir characterization. They explore how this critical topic is transforming as geophysics expands its role in the global energy transition. From carbon storage to geothermal and hydrogen solutions, this episode highlights why reservoir characterization is at the heart of our clean energy future. KEY TAKEAWAYS > The Expanding Role of Reservoir Characterization: Learn how techniques traditionally used in oil and gas are now essential for carbon storage, geothermal projects, and hydrogen exploration. > Cutting-Edge Techniques in Action: Discover how advanced methods like full waveform inversion (FWI) and machine learning enhance our ability to map and monitor subsurface formations. > The Importance of Collaboration: Hear why integrating geophysics with geology, engineering, and other disciplines is crucial for solving modern subsurface challenges. NEXT STEP Explore the special section on reservoir characterization in December's The Leading Edge. Dive into the nine papers for actionable insights and real-world applications to guide your projects and decisions. https://library.seg.org/toc/leedff/43/12 TEXT A FRIEND Satinder and Heather share how AI and FWI are reshaping how we image the subsurface - inspiring information! https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-248-ai-fwi-and-the-future-of-subsurface-imaging/ GUEST BIOS Satinder Chopra is the founder and President of SamiGeo Consulting Ltd., located in Calgary. With 40 years of experience as a geophysicist, he specializes in processing, special processing, and the interactive interpretation of seismic data for reservoir characterization. His research interests focus on techniques for reservoir characterization. Dr. Heather Bedle is the Principal Investigator for Attribute-Assisted Seismic Processing and Interpretation (AASPI) and an Assistant Professor at the University of Oklahoma in the School of Geosciences. Her research and teaching focus on applying and developing advanced seismic interpretation. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-248-ai-fwi-and-the-future-of-subsurface-imaging/ for links to the articles in The Leading Edge and the full guest bios. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS Technical Program Chairs Yingcai Zheng and Molly Turko invite you to submit your best work. This year, we're fostering deeper collaboration between SEG, AAPG, and SEPM. Focus on regional challenges and how integrated geoscience can unlock solutions. Submit short or expanded abstracts for oral and poster presentations. The Call for Abstracts is open and closes on 15 March at 5:00 PM CT. Don't miss this opportunity to share your research and connect with the broader geoscience community at https://www.imageevent.org/call-for-abstracts. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

Seismic Soundoff
247: From Pitfalls to Potential - Making the Most of Seismic Attributes

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2025 26:02


"Seismic attributes are not just colorful pictures; they're meaningful tools that can guide geoscientists to more accurate interpretations." In this episode, Andrew Geary sits down with Satinder Chopra and Kurt Marfurt, authors of Essentials of Seismic Attributes and Impedance Inversion, to discuss their comprehensive guide to understanding and applying seismic attributes in geophysics. They explore the power of attributes for interpreting seismic data, their practical applications, and common pitfalls to avoid. If you're ready to deepen your understanding of seismic attributes and their real-world impact, this conversation is packed with expert insights. KEY TAKEAWAYS > The Value of Attributes: Learn how seismic attributes unlock insights into stratigraphy, tectonics, and depositional systems beyond what amplitudes alone can reveal. > Practical Advice for Geoscientists: Discover tips on avoiding common pitfalls, from using preconditioned data to optimizing parameters and algorithms. > Integrated Interpretations: Explore how combining geology and seismic attributes leads to more accurate interpretations and successful outcomes. NEXT STEP Dive deeper into seismic attributes by reading the Front Matter for free at https://library.seg.org/doi/10.1190/1.9781560804062.fm. This book is a must-have resource for geoscientists looking to maximize the value of their data. TEXT A FRIEND Satinder and Kurt share workflows to get the most out of seismic data - worth listening to! https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-247-from-pitfalls-to-potential-making-the-most-of-seismic-attributes/ GUEST BIOS Satinder Chopra is the founder and President of SamiGeo Consulting Ltd., located in Calgary. With 40 years of experience as a geophysicist, he specializes in processing, special processing, and the interactive interpretation of seismic data for reservoir characterization. His research interests focus on techniques for reservoir characterization. Kurt J. Marfurt earned his Ph.D. in applied geophysics in 1978 from Columbia University's Henry Krumb School of Mines, New York. With the petroleum industry's movement to shale resource plays, Marfurt moved to the University of Oklahoma in 2007. There, he held the Frank and Henrietta Schultz professorship of geophysics at the ConocoPhillips School of Geology and Geophysics, where he is currently an Emeritus Professor. In recognition of his lifelong contributions to geoscience technology, Marfurt received the AAPG Robert Berg Award for Research in 2019 and SEG's Maurice Ewing Medal in 2023. LINKS * Buy the Print Book at https://seg.org/shop/product/?id=1ad0380a-5291-ef11-ac20-7c1e521bcb23 * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-247-from-pitfalls-to-potential-making-the-most-of-seismic-attributes/ for the full guest bios and show notes. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS Technical Program Chairs Yingcai Zheng and Molly Turko invite you to submit your best work. This year, we're fostering deeper collaboration between SEG, AAPG, and SEPM. Focus on regional challenges and how integrated geoscience can unlock solutions. Submit short or expanded abstracts for oral and poster presentations. The Call for Abstracts is open and closes on 15 March at 5:00 PM CT. Don't miss this opportunity to share your research and connect with the broader geoscience community at https://www.imageevent.org/call-for-abstracts. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

Seismic Soundoff
246: Combining Tradition and Innovation in Seismic Problem Solving

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2025 27:32


"Physics-based methods honor our understanding of the subsurface, while machine learning fills the gaps - but combining them is key." Andrew Geary chats with Mrinal Sen, a pioneer in seismic data analysis, about his Distinguished Instructor Short Course (DISC) and forthcoming book, Physics and Data Driven Seismic Data Analysis: A Narrative of Two Approaches. Mrinal shares how blending physics-based methods with machine learning unlocks new possibilities in seismic interpretation. Whether you're a student, geophysicist, or industry leader, this discussion is packed with insights into navigating the evolving landscape of seismic analysis. KEY TAKEAWAYS > The Power of Combining Approaches: Learn how integrating physics-driven and data-driven methods enhances seismic problem-solving. > Applications in Seismic Analysis: Discover real-world uses of machine learning, from denoising seismic data to improving full-waveform inversion. > A Practical Guide for Decision-Makers: Gain tools to decide when and how to leverage machine learning versus traditional physics-based techniques. NEXT STEP Ready to explore the future of seismic analysis? Enroll in Mrinal Sen's course to deepen your understanding and stay ahead at https://seg.org/education/courses/mrinal-sen-disc/. TEXT A FRIEND This episode explains when to choose physics vs. machine learning for seismic problems - so useful for decision-making! https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-246-combining-tradition-and-innovation-in-seismic-problem-solving/ GUEST BIO Mrinal K. Sen is a professor of Geophysics and holder of the Morgan Davis Centennial chair in Petroleum Geology at the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences and the Institute for Geophysics at the University of Texas at Austin. During 2013 and 2014, Mrinal was the director of the National Geophysical Research Institute, Hyderabad, India. He received his M.Sc degree from IIT Dhanbad and PhD from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, USA. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-246-combining-tradition-and-innovation-in-seismic-problem-solving/ for Mrinal's full biography and the complete show notes. JOIN THE SEG COMMUNITY Studying geosciences? The Society of Exploration Geophysicists is your key to success. * Boost your career: Access mentorship, scholarships, and discounted conferences. * Expand your knowledge: Explore the SEG Library – a treasure trove of articles, books, and papers on the latest advancements. * Connect globally: Network with geoscientists worldwide, discuss and collaborate on projects. * Enhance your skills: Benefit from various continuing education programs. * Unlock your potential: Join SEG and elevate your geoscience journey. Learn more about membership benefits at https://seg.org/membership/. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS Technical Program Chairs Yingcai Zheng and Molly Turko invite you to submit your best work. This year, we're fostering deeper collaboration between SEG, AAPG, and SEPM. Focus on regional challenges and how integrated geoscience can unlock solutions. Submit short or expanded abstracts for oral and poster presentations. The Call for Abstracts is open and closes on 15 March at 5:00 PM CT. Don't miss this opportunity to share your research and connect with the broader geoscience community at https://www.imageevent.org/call-for-abstracts. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

Seismic Soundoff
243: Saving Lives Before Disaster Strikes - Ron Harris on Proactive Risk Reduction

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2024 29:23


"The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami was a wake-up call. It showed me that even the best science fails without effective communication and proactive strategies to save lives." In this episode, host Andrew Geary talks with Ron Harris, Geological Sciences Professor at Brigham Young University, about his groundbreaking work in disaster preparedness. Ron shares insights from his lecture and nonprofit, In Harm's Way, focusing on how scientific research can save lives in disaster-prone regions. KEY POINTS & TAKEAWAYS > Proactive Disaster Preparedness: Ron champions moving beyond reactive approaches, using community-based education to prepare for potential hazards before they occur. > The "20-20-20" Evacuation Principle: This innovative rule helps communities quickly self-evacuate after earthquakes. By combining scientific data with simple messaging, Ron created a lifesaving tool anyone can understand and implement. > Science Meets Community Action: Through his WAVES team, Geoscientists without Borders, and In Harm's Way, Ron proves that bridging scientific insights with local leadership can dramatically reduce disaster risks. > Cultural Engagement: Ron has found powerful ways to boost community preparedness by collaborating with Indonesian scouting groups and integrating local heroes into disaster messaging. > A Challenge to Future Geoscientists: Ron encourages young researchers to align their skills with societal needs, demonstrating how scientific expertise can create real-world impact. LINKS * Support GWB - https://seg.org/programs/geoscientists-without-borders/ * Register for Ron's talk - https://seg.org/education/lectures/seg-global-sustainability-lectures-ron-harris/ * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-243-saving-lives-before-disaster-strikes-ron-harris-on-proactive-risk-reduction/ to discover past podcasts on humanitarian geophysics and all the links for this episode. GUEST BIO Professor Ron Harris specializes in plate tectonics and associated geophysical hazards. He received his BSc. in Geology from the University of Oregon, an MSc. in Geophysics from the Geophysical Institute of Alaska, and a Ph.D. in Geodynamics from University College London, UK. Ron has worked for oil, mining, and environmental companies, for the U.S. Geological Survey, and with the governments of several developing countries threatened by natural hazards. Dr. Harris has taught at universities in the U.S., Great Britain, Oman, Taiwan, and Indonesia. He has been invited to make over 200 presentations, has 95 peer-reviewed publications, written books and garnered several research grants and awards. Dr. Harris' research integrates many sub-disciplines, but the common thread is applying geoscience to societal needs. He founded the nonprofit organization In Harm's Way, which identifies areas most vulnerable to natural disasters and helps community-based organizations communicate risk and implement effective risk-reduction strategies that save thousands of lives. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

Seismic Soundoff
240: Navigating Geoethics - Balancing Science and Responsibility in Geosciences

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2024 21:43


“Geoethics encourages us to think beyond just technical solutions and consider the long-term social and environmental impacts. It's about embracing humility and seeing problems through multiple lenses to find sustainable solutions.” In this episode, Andrew Geary interviews Giuseppe Di Capua, a founding member and former president of the International Association for Promoting Geoethics (IAPG). They discuss the connection between ethics and geoscience, highlighting the importance of ethical awareness for responsible scientific practices. Giuseppe shares insights on how geoethics can guide geoscientists to balance technical work with social and environmental responsibilities, aiming to foster sustainable interactions with our planet. Listen for a thought-provoking conversation on why geoethics is vital to responsible geoscience and how it can guide our efforts toward a more sustainable world. KEY POINTS & TAKEAWAYS > The Role of Geoethics: Geoethics combines scientific knowledge with ethical responsibility, encouraging geoscientists to consider their work's societal and environmental impact. > Balancing Growth and Sustainability: Younger geoscientists face balancing economic development with the need for environmental conservation, underscoring a shift towards sustainable geoscience practices. > IAPG's Mission: The International Association for Promoting Geoethics seeks to foster ethical awareness and inclusivity among geoscientists globally, especially in low-income countries, by promoting cooperative values like honesty, integrity, and transparency. > Educational Shift: Giuseppe advocates for integrating geoethics into academic training for geoscientists, emphasizing the importance of ethical, social, and cultural awareness in their professional roles. > Call to Action: Giuseppe challenges listeners to embrace geoethics in their work and daily lives, inspiring them to contribute to a sustainable future by recognizing the intricate connections between human actions and the Earth's systems. THIS EPISODE SPONSORED BY BLUWARE Bluware's InteractivAI is a human-powered AI seismic analysis tool, revolutionizing the way geoscientists extract value from seismic data. Unlike traditional seismic interpretation tools that just "check the box" for AI through black box algorithms, InteractivAI puts the interpreter in the driver's seat by presenting an intuitive, live feedback loop. Users experience a faster and more comprehensive interpretation, leading to higher-confidence decision-making. Learn more at https://bluware.com. GUEST BIO Giuseppe Di Capua is a geologist at the Istituto Nazionale Geofisica e Vulcanologia. His fields of experience cover engineering geology, geoethics, geoscience education and communication, and philosophy of geosciences. He is a Founding Member and Treasurer of the International Association for Promoting Geoethics (IAPG); Task Leader on ethical aspects in the European Horizon 2020 project ENVRI-Plus, and Team Leader of the Erasmus+ project GOAL (Geoethics Outcomes and Awareness Learning); Member of the International Advisory Board of the European projects INTERMIN - International Network of Raw Materials Training Centres and SMART EXPLORATION; Webmaster and Member of the Publications Committee of the International Union of Geological Sciences; Member of the Executive Committee of the International Council for Philosophy and Human Sciences; and author of articles in international journals and editor of books on geoethics. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-240-navigating-geoethics-balancing-science-and-responsibility-in-geosciences/ for the complete show notes and links to learn more about IAPG. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

Seismic Soundoff
238: Unveiling the Earth's Secrets - The Completion of the U.S. Magnetotelluric Array

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2024 30:40


"The MTArray is changing how we explore for minerals and critical resources, and it's paving the way for sustainable energy development." In this episode of Seismic Soundoff, host Andrew Geary speaks with Adam Schultz about completing the U.S. Magnetotelluric (MT) Array after 18 years. This groundbreaking project has mapped the electrical properties of the Earth's crust across the contiguous United States. Adam explains how this geophysical method has evolved from pure science into a critical tool for protecting national infrastructure and identifying valuable resources. He shares insights into the unexpected challenges and major discoveries made while offering a bold call to action for the geophysics community to think bigger and push the boundaries of exploration. Listen to learn how the MTArray is shaping the future of geophysics and infrastructure resilience. KEY POINTS AND TAKEAWAYS > The USMTArray's Evolution: Originally part of the EarthScope program, the MTArray project became crucial for understanding power grid and national infrastructure risks, especially from space weather events. > Critical Infrastructure Protection: Data from the MTArray has helped power grid operators mitigate risks from geomagnetically induced currents, potentially preventing large-scale outages during extreme solar storms. > East Coast Vulnerabilities: The discovery of a sharp transition in the Earth's crust along the eastern U.S. revealed hidden vulnerabilities to geomagnetic storms, challenging previous assumptions about regional risk. > Surprising Challenges and Successes: The MTArray faced unexpected difficulties, especially in challenging environments like the Gulf Coast, but also saw breakthrough moments, including stunning data collected during a major solar storm. > A Call for Bold Exploration: Adam urges geophysicists to think bigger, use larger arrays, and embrace time-varying, 4D imaging to advance the field and apply geophysical techniques to real-world problems like sustainable energy development and critical mineral exploration. Editor's Note: Special thanks to Xiaolei Tu for recommending this episode. GUEST BIO Dr. Adam Schultz is a Professor of Geophysics at the College of Earth, Ocean & Atmospheric Science at Oregon State University. Adam led the 18-year effort to map the electrical properties of Earth's crust and mantle across the contiguous United States. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-238-unveiling-the-earths-secrets-the-completion-of-the-u-s-magnetotelluric-array/ for links to learn more about this project and Dr. Schultz. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

Seismic Soundoff
237: TGS's Path to Net-Zero: Sustainability Insights from Sandy Spørck

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2024 25:34


"Sustainability isn't just about the environment; it's about the economics and profitability of companies, too. We need the expertise, we need the technology - if you like solving challenges, this is the place to be." In this episode of Seismic Soundoff, host Andrew Geary sits down with Sandy Spørck to discuss the challenges and opportunities in creating a sustainable future within the oil and gas industry. Sandy shares her journey from an engineering mindset to embracing a broader, more scientific view of sustainability and TGS's steps to reach net-zero emissions. They explore the complexities of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), the role of education, and the importance of collaboration in navigating the energy transition. KEY POINTS > Sustainability and ESG: Sandy explains the difference between sustainability (as defined by the UN) and ESG, highlighting how both frameworks guide corporate transparency and environmental responsibility in the oil and gas industry. > TGS's Net-Zero Goals: TGS has committed to reducing emissions from its maritime operations by 75% by 2050 and transitioning to 100% renewable energy for onshore activities. > Decentralizing Sustainability Efforts: Sandy emphasizes the importance of involving a broader range of stakeholders across TGS, creating a sustainability network that brings diverse perspectives. > The Challenge of Climate Transition: Achieving sustainability goals is a complex process that involves trial and error, with the next few years focused on aligning efforts and understanding what works. > Education and Understanding: Sandy advocates for education as the foundation of sustainable progress, not only as a means to lift people out of poverty but also to foster a deeper understanding of the economic, societal, and environmental impacts of energy transition. Editor's Note: Between the recording and release of this podcast, PGS and TGS merged. Sandy Spørck speaks to us from her position at PGS as Chief Sustainability Officer and is now leading integration activities and strategic alignment between PGS and TGS. THIS EPISODE SPONSORED BY BLUWARE Bluware's InteractivAI is a human-powered AI seismic analysis tool, revolutionizing the way geoscientists extract value from seismic data. Unlike traditional seismic interpretation tools that just "check the box" for AI through black box algorithms, InteractivAI puts the interpreter in the driver's seat by presenting an intuitive, live feedback loop. Users experience a faster and more comprehensive interpretation, leading to higher-confidence decision-making. Learn more at https://bluware.com. SANDY'S CALL TO ACTION > Actively contribute to sustainability by focusing on what you can control or influence > Encourage decentralizing sustainability efforts - involve people across different roles to drive progress collectively. > Do not feel overwhelmed by the enormity of climate challenges, but take meaningful, manageable actions, such as improving waste management or supporting sustainable practices within one's capacity. GUEST BIO After serving as Chief Sustainability Officer at PGS, Sandy Spørck leads integration activities and strategic alignment between PGS and TGS. Sandy holds a Master of Science Degree in International Management, Business Law, Tax, and Accounting from The Norwegian School of Management and a Bachelor of Science in Management from Arizona State University. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-237-tgss-path-to-net-zero-sustainability-insights-from-sandy-sporck/ for Sandy's full biography and the complete show notes. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

Seismic Soundoff
232: Shaping the Future of Humanitarian Geoscience

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2024 20:31


"How could you apply your own personal knowledge of geoscience, whatever specialty it is, to help solve humanitarian problems, no matter what the scale is?" Join host Andrew Geary as he speaks with Beth Burton to explore the newly formed Geoscientists without Borders (GWB) Technical Review Subcommittee (TRSC). This episode delves into the TRSC's history, purpose, and operations, offering insights into its significant role in advancing humanitarian projects through geoscience. In this episode, we talk about: > The formation and mission of the TRSC > Key principles and guidelines that shape the committee's operations > Criteria for evaluating and selecting projects for funding > The significance of the first mainland USA project in Houston > Upcoming GWB events at IMAGE, including a technical session and field trip > The evolving role of the committee and lessons learned > Opportunities for geoscientists to apply their knowledge to humanitarian efforts Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the TRSC's role in advancing geoscientific applications for humanitarian causes and learn how to get involved in these impactful projects. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of geoscience and humanitarian work. The podcast returns with new episodes on 12 September 2024. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-232-shaping-the-future-of-humanitarian-geoscience/ to register for IMAGE '24, the GWB Field Camp, and find the complete interview transcript. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

Seismic Soundoff
231: Previewing IMAGE '24 - The Largest Technical Program Yet

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2024 21:59


Get ready to immerse yourself in cutting-edge geoscience technologies and connect with industry experts. In this episode, Wenyi Hu and Ken Tubman join host Andrew Geary to discuss the upcoming IMAGE '24 conference, which promises the largest technical program to date with over 1,200 presentations. In this episode, we talk about: > The expansion and evolution of poster presentations to enhance networking and discussion > The introduction of a geographic focus in the technical program, covering six regions > The benefits of integrating geophysical and geological technologies > The diverse range of exhibitors > Numerous networking opportunities, from informal interactions on the exhibition floor to special events like Geoscientists without Borders > The value of short courses for both early career and seasoned professionals Listeners will gain a comprehensive overview of what to expect at IMAGE '24, from the technical sessions and poster presentations to the exhibition hall and networking events. This episode is a must-listen for anyone planning to attend the conference and looking to maximize their experience. THIS EPISODE SPONSORED BY VIRIDIEN (FORMERLY CGG) Viridien, formerly CGG, is an advanced technology, digital, and Earth data company that pushes the boundaries of science for a more prosperous and sustainable future. Building on a track record of innovation, Viridien continues to serve the energy industry as it accelerates its growth in the low-carbon markets of minerals & mining and carbon storage, as well as in high-performance computing and infrastructure monitoring. Learn how Viridien's insights, innovations, and solutions can help resolve your complex challenges efficiently and responsibly - and see things differently at https://www.viridiengroup.com/. THIS EPISODE SPONSORED BY BLUWARE Bluware's InteractivAI is a human-powered AI seismic analysis tool, revolutionizing the way geoscientists extract value from seismic data. Unlike traditional seismic interpretation tools that just "check the box" for AI through black box algorithms, InteractivAI puts the interpreter in the driver's seat by presenting an intuitive, live feedback loop. Users experience a faster and more comprehensive interpretation, leading to higher-confidence decision-making. Learn more at https://bluware.com. THIS EPISODE SPONSORED BY KATALYST DATA MANAGEMENT Katalyst Data Management® provides the only integrated, end-to-end subsurface data management solution for the oil and gas industry. Its employees operate in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and South America and are dedicated to optimizing the value of subsurface data, including seismic and well data. Katalyst enables clients' digital transformation of E&P data with digitizing services and digital transformation consulting. Learn more at Katalyst Data Management. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-231-previewing-image-24-the-largest-technical-program-yet/ to register for IMAGE '24 and find the complete interview transcript. * Highlight in the Archives: How to unlock the power of networking - a great conversation to prepare you for IMAGE -> https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-191-how-to-unlock-the-power-of-networking/ SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

Seismic Soundoff
230: Celebrating Sven - A Legacy of Innovation and Mentorship in Geophysics

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2024 31:50


"Sven showed us that the goal of a presentation is to transfer knowledge and insight, not to show people how smart you are." In this heartfelt episode, we honor the legacy of Sven Treitel, a beloved figure in geophysics and at SEG. Kurt Marfurt and Sam Gray join host Andrew Geary to reflect on Sven's profound impact on their work and the field. In this episode, we talk about: > How a 25 cents coffee subsidy proved an invaluable investment for Amoco > The power and usefulness of the "chicken test" > How the gaming and AI industry of today relates to the oil and gas industry > The groundbreaking contributions of Sven and Enders Robinson, particularly in digital signal processing > Sven's approach to making complex concepts accessible and understandable > Sven's dedication to professional societies and his mentorship beyond Amoco > How Sven's international background shaped his perspectives and interactions > The humor and humility that made Sven a beloved mentor and colleague Listeners will gain a deep appreciation for Sven's lasting contributions to geophysics and his ability to bridge the gap between research and practical application. This episode is a tribute to a geophysical giant whose influence will be felt for generations. GUEST BIOS Kurt J. Marfurt is the recipient of SEG's highest honor, the Maurice Ewing Medal, awarded to a person deserving of special recognition for making major contributions to the advancement of the science and profession of exploration geophysics. Marfurt is a remarkably productive geophysicist, author, and educator with a distinguished career in academia and the oil and gas industry. After completing his Ph.D. in applied geophysics at Columbia University in 1978 and teaching there, he joined the Amoco Research Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, as a research geophysicist. During his tenure at Amoco, Marfurt made significant contributions to several processes and patents, particularly the development of seismic attributes. In 1999, Marfurt joined the faculty at the University of Houston, where he served as director of the Allied Geophysical Laboratories. He continued researching seismic imaging, interpretation, and data simulation, notably generating well-used synthetic data sets for the Marmousi model. In 2007, Marfurt joined the faculty of the University of Oklahoma, where he served as the Shultz Professor of Geophysics and is now professor emeritus. He has been involved with SEG as a short course instructor, associate editor of GEOPHYSICS, editor-in-chief of Interpretation, director at large on the SEG Board of Directors, and coauthor of more than 800 papers and abstracts. Samuel Gray received a PhD in Mathematics in 1978, and he joined the oil and gas industry in 1982 at Amoco's Research Lab in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he worked on seismic imaging, amplitude analysis, and velocity estimation problems. He moved to Amoco Canada in 1994, where the near surface humbled him. He joined Veritas (now CGGVeritas) in 1999. Gray has published and presented widely and has won awards for Best Paper in Geophysics and The Leading Edge, Best Presentation at SEG and CSEG meetings, and Honorable Mention for Best Paper in Geophysics. He has also served several times as an Associate Editor of Geophysics. In 2010, he received the SEG's Reginald Fessenden Award for his work on both the theoretical and practical sides of imaging. He won the SEG Maurice Ewing Medal in 2017. Sam retired as Senior Researcher, Subsurface Imaging, CGG (now Viridien). LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-230-celebrating-sven-a-legacy-of-innovation-and-mentorship-in-geophysics/ for links to Sven's Memorial in TLE, his video interview, the complete interview transcript, and more. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis.

Seismic Soundoff
229: From Barriers to Belonging - Building Strong Companies & Teams in Geophysics

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2024 26:59


"Understanding the problem is sometimes more important than getting to a solution." In this episode, Dr. Eileen Martin, winner of the 2024 J. Clarence Karcher Award, shares actionable advice and resources to help you make a positive impact in your professional environment. In this episode, we talk about: > The definitions of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in the context of geophysics > The mission statement of the JEDI Committee and its guiding principles > The challenges and opportunities of a volunteer-driven organization > The JEDI Ambassadors program and its role in promoting JEDI principles > How to question biases and actively support colleagues from underrepresented backgrounds > Practical ways to foster inclusion and belonging in professional settings > The importance of recognizing and nominating diverse talent for awards In this conversation with host Andrew Geary, Eileen Martin elaborates on the JEDI Committee's initiatives, including the JEDI Ambassadors program, which aims to integrate JEDI principles across various SEG committees. Listeners will learn practical steps for promoting justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion within their organizations and the broader geophysics community. This episode offers actionable advice and resources to help you make a positive impact in your professional environment. GUEST BIOGRAPHY Dr. Eileen Martin is an associate professor at Colorado School of Mines jointly appointed in geophysics and applied math and statistics. At Mines, she is a part of two industry-aligned consortia: Center for Wave Phenomena and Center to Advance the Science of Exploration to Reclamation in Mining. She earned her PhD from the Institute for Computational and Mathematical Engineering at Stanford in 2018, where she was a member of the Stanford Exploration Project group and an affiliate in the geophysics department at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab. She holds an MS in geophysics from Stanford and a BS with a double major in math and computational physics from UT-Austin. She has earned an NSF CAREER grant (2021), the SIAM Activity Group on Geosciences Early Career Prize (2023), and the SEG J. Clarence Karcher Award (2024). LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-229-from-barriers-to-belonging-building-strong-companies-teams-in-geophysics/ for links to the Geoscientists Around the Globe series and the complete interview transcript. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. Transcription and episode summary support provided by Headliner. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

Seismic Soundoff
228: Key Trends That Will Shape the Oil and Gas Industry w/ Sophie Zurquiyah

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2024 20:43


"Energy transition is everywhere. It is an underlying trend, and sustainability is something that we have to incorporate into every company's strategy." Sophie Zurquiyah, CEO of Viridien, discusses the transformation of CGG into Viridien. In this episode, we talk about: > The reasons behind CGG's rebranding to Viridien > The significance of technology and quality of service in differentiation in the marketplace > The role of AI and machine learning in enhancing product offerings > The impact of the energy transition on Viridien's goals and strategies > Key trends shaping the future of the oil and gas sector > The influence of being based in the EU on Viridien's business approach > Strategies for attracting and retaining top talent in a competitive industry > Sophie's vision for Viridien's future and its evolution over the next decade In this conversation with host Andrew Geary, Sophie highlights the impact of the energy transition on Viridien's strategies and goals and shares her insights on key trends in the oil and gas sector. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the significance of technology in addressing energy security and Sophie's vision for the company's future. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of the oil and gas industry and the role of technology and sustainability in shaping its future. THIS EPISODE SPONSORED BY VIRIDIEN Viridien, formerly CGG, is an advanced technology, digital and Earth data company that pushes the boundaries of science for a more prosperous and sustainable future. Building on a track record of innovation, Viridien continues to serve the energy industry as it accelerates its growth in the low-carbon markets of minerals & mining and carbon storage, as well as in high-performance computing and infrastructure monitoring. Learn how Viridien's insights, innovations, and solutions can help resolve your complex challenges efficiently and responsibly - and see things differently at https://www.viridiengroup.com/. THIS EPISODE SPONSORED BY BLUWARE Bluware is revolutionizing interpretation workflows with its cutting-edge interactive AI technology. Designed for geoscientists, the tool enables rapid and precise seismic interpretation, significantly enhancing decision-making processes. Reduce the time and effort required for repetitive interpretation tasks. Instead, increase operational efficiency and drive better outcomes in exploration and production. Discover the future of geoscience interpretation with Bluware InteractivAI - where advanced technology meets unparalleled performance. Learn more at https://bluware.com. GUEST BIOGRAPHY Sophie Zurquiyah is the Director and Chief Executive Officer of Virdien. She is a graduate of the École Centrale of Paris. She holds a Master's in Numerical Analysis from Pierre et Marie Curie University (Paris VI) and a Master's in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Colorado. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-228-key-trends-that-will-shape-the-oil-and-gas-industry-w-sophie-zurquiyah/ for Sophie's complete biography and the interview transcript. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis.

Seismic Soundoff
227: How Experts Use Data and Technology to Navigate Subsurface Uncertainty

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2024 25:29


"Understanding the problem is sometimes often more important than getting to a solution." Madhav Vyas and Dr. David Lubo-Robles discuss June's The Leading Edge on subsurface uncertainty. In this episode, we talk about: > Methods for assessing uncertainty in seismic workflows > Significant sources of subsurface uncertainty > How integrating different data sources can reduce subsurface uncertainty > The concept of rugosity and its effect on seismic image resolution > The advantages of using invertible neural networks > How to better communicate uncertainty to stakeholders and management > Emerging technologies and methodologies to reduce subsurface uncertainty In this conversation with host Andrew Geary, Madhav and David explore the complexities of predicting subsurface outcomes and the various sources of uncertainty that geophysicists must address. The discussion highlights how integrating geologic, petrophysical, and geochemical data can help reduce uncertainty and improve decision-making. The episode also covers the impact of interface rugosity on wave propagation, methods for assessing uncertainty in seismic workflows, and the benefits of using invertible neural networks. Madhav also elaborates on how geophysicists can better communicate uncertainty to stakeholders and suggests looking to other industries, like meteorology, for effective communication strategies. Listeners will gain insights into the challenges and solutions related to subsurface uncertainty, the importance of critical thinking in geoscience, and the potential of emerging technologies to improve subsurface predictions. THIS EPISODE SPONSORED BY BLUWARE Looking for ways to quickly and efficiently access and analyze seismic data on a global scale? Bluware, a CMG company, overcomes the limitations in existing seismic data formats and streamlines data usability into your existing geoscience workflows through a cloud-native data visualization engine. Extract deeper insights from seismic data faster than ever before to make more informed decisions and reduce exploration risk. Learn how Bluware is shaping the future of energy exploration and production at https://bluware.com. GUEST BIOS David Lubo-Robles is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the University of Oklahoma. David is a geophysicist interested in developing and applying innovative tools using machine learning, quantitative seismic interpretation, and seismic attribute analysis for oil and gas, geothermal reservoir characterization, hydrogen storage, and carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS). His paper, "Quantifying the sensitivity of seismic facies classification to seismic attribute selection: An explainable machine-learning study," was awarded Honorable Mention, Best Paper in Interpretation in 2022. David received his MS and PhD in Geophysics at the University of Oklahoma. Madhav Vyas is an Imaging R&D Adviser and Seismic Technology Principal at BP. He has a BS and MS in Geophysics from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, and an MS in Geophysics from Stanford University, where he was part of the Stanford Exploration Project, an industry consortium for seismic imaging research. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-227-how-experts-use-data-and-technology-to-navigate-subsurface-uncertainty/ for the complete interview transcript and the links for June's The Leading Edge. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. Transcription and episode summary support provided by Headliner. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

Seismic Soundoff
226: Rock Physics in Focus - Historical Impact & Future Challenges

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2024 23:05


"The energy transition has opened many new areas, many new doors, and rock physics is really at the center of that." Dr. Laurent Louis highlights rock physics in May's The Leading Edge. In this episode, we talk about: > How rock physics has improved the field of geophysics > The accuracy and applicability of Asaka's rock physics model > Discovering inaccuracies in Gassmann's equation > The development of modern digital tools for the field of rock physics > Why rock physics can address the challenges of the energy transition In this conversation with host Andrew Geary, Laurent Louis delves into rock physics' transformative impact on geophysics. He explores the development of effective medium models, the challenges of modeling anisotropy and integrating modern digital tools in rock physics. Laurent emphasizes the need for new models to address the energy transition and the importance of collaboration in integrating various technologies. He also highlights the practical challenges and future directions for rock physics, urging listeners to embrace doubt and pursue discovery. Take advantage of this deep dive into the latest trends in rock physics, its historical challenges, and why now is the perfect time to focus on rock physics. Laurent Louis is a geological consultant at Aramco Research Center. He holds a PhD in rock physics from CY Cergy Paris Université. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-226-rock-physics-in-focus-historical-impact-future-challenges/ for the complete interview transcript and the links for May's The Leading Edge. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. Transcription and episode summary support provided by Headliner. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

Seismic Soundoff
225: How to Keep Geophysics Relevant w/ Tim Dean

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2024 28:26


"We (geophysicists) need to look where the markets are rather than expect people to come to us. We have skills, and it's just about finding where we can apply these in the future." Dr. Tim Dean discusses his Honorary Lecture, "Seismic Acquisition and the Energy Transition." In this episode, we talk about: > The evolving applications of seismic acquisition beyond oil and gas > The importance of minerals for the energy transition and the role of seismic in their exploration > Innovations in seismic technology that reduce costs and expand capabilities > Why geophysics is data science - and other ways geophysicists are missing out > The potential of passive seismic techniques in large-scale mineral exploration > The future of seismic monitoring and its role in the subsurface changes > Addressing the decline in geophysics education and the need for broader application awareness > Tim's interest in collecting physical nodes The need for the world to transition away from fossil fuel to renewable energy sources is well established. The seismic exploration industry has long been focused on fossil fuel exploration, so it makes sense that this transition will also impact the industry. However, the movement away from fossil fuels does open up new prospects for the seismic method's application in areas as diverse as geothermal energy and mineral exploration. This episode (and Tim's Honorary Lecture) examines these new applications and discusses the opportunities that are developing for the method's application and their likely impact on future developments. In this conversation with host Andrew Geary, Tim emphasizes the unparalleled imaging capabilities of seismic methods and their critical role in identifying deeper mineral deposits essential for the energy transition. Tim also discusses the challenges and opportunities in applying seismic methods to hard rock environments, the economic differences between the oil and gas and minerals industries, and the importance of evolving geophysical education to meet future demands. He advocates for geophysicists to proactively engage with other industries to showcase the value of their expertise and technologies. No matter where you are on your geophysics journey, this episode is a must-listen. This conversation is challenging and insightful and may just save geophysics. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-225-how-to-keep-geophysics-relevant-w-tim-dean/ for the complete interview transcript and to register for Tim's Honorary Lecture on 27 June. GUEST BIO Tim Dean is a specialist project geoscientist for Anglo American Steel Making Coal in Australia. He graduated from Curtin University with a BSc in Geophysics in 1998. He worked in onboard marine data processing for a year for Western Geophysical before returning to Curtin University to complete his Honors, followed by a PhD in Physics at the University of New South Wales. He then enjoyed an extensive career within WesternGeco and SLB, working in various roles, including field operations, software development, and research in Saudi Arabia, England, Norway, and Australia. His final position within SLB was as principal research geophysicist at the Schlumberger Fibre-Optic Technology Centre, where he worked on distributed acoustic sensing. He then joined HawkEye Technology (a division of Sony) as a project advisor before returning to Australia in 2016 to join the Department of Exploration Geophysics at Curtin University. He returned to industry in 2019, joining BHP Coal before moving to Anglo American in 2022. His research interests include land acquisition - particularly vibroseis sources - and survey design, land data processing, and distributed fibre-optic sensing. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

Seismic Soundoff
224: The Physics Behind Land Seismic Noise (Christof Stork)

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2024 23:02


"With ​every ​new ​acquisition, ​spend ​2% ​of ​your ​budget ​to ​do ​research ​to ​understand the ​noise ​and ​signal ​drivers ​in ​your ​area. ​It ​might ​help ​any ​future ​neighboring ​acquisition, ​or ​it ​might ​just ​help ​the ​field ​in ​general, ​​which ​you ​and ​your ​career ​will ​benefit ​from." Dr. Christof Stork discusses his Distinguished Lecture, "How Does the Thin Near Surface of the Earth Produce up to 100 Times More Noise on Land Seismic Data than on Marine Data?". OVERVIEW > The significance of addressing noise in near-surface land seismic data > The interplay of theoretical and practical approaches in seismic noise reduction > The importance of coherent noise removal before statistical noise removal > The limitations and future potential of FWI in land seismic > The role of research and development in improving land seismic data quality > The impact of corporate and economic structures on seismic research investment Along with host Andrew Geary, Christof delves into the intricate world of land seismic noise. Noise is a significant challenge in land seismic data that has long been overlooked. Christof focuses on the complexities of land seismic noise and innovative methods to address it. Christof's journey into addressing land seismic noise began with his fascination for land data and its significant yet under-researched impact on seismic imaging. Despite the advancements in marine processing and pre-stack depth migration, land seismic methods have yet to see comparable progress. He emphasizes the need for more attention and funding in this area, highlighting how crucial it is for improving seismic data quality. Christof also illuminates the concept of "poor coupling," a term that describes the disconnect between surface geophones and the wave field at greater depths. He argues that understanding the physics behind poor coupling can lead to better signal extraction and improved seismic data quality. One key takeaway from Christof's discussion is the importance of combining theoretical and practical approaches to tackle land seismic noise. He explains that while traditional methods rely heavily on statistical noise removal, this is limited in effectiveness. Instead, Christof advocates for a focus on coherent noise removal, which can significantly enhance the effectiveness of statistical methods and reduce the need for excessive data collection. Christof's passion for land seismic research is evident as he calls for more investment in R&D from both the industry and academic communities. He stresses the potential benefits of dedicating a small percentage of acquisition budgets to research and creative experimentation, which could lead to significant advancements in seismic imaging. Listeners will better understand why land seismic noise remains a complex problem and the potential pathways to progress. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-224-the-physics-behind-land-seismic-noise-christof-stork/ for the complete interview transcript and to register for the DL. GUEST BIO Christof Stork started as a theoretical academic with a PhD in geophysics from Caltech and a post-doc from Stanford 36 years ago. He performed early leading work in reflection tomography, PSDM, WEM, RTM, and FWI before they became mainstream technologies. Ten years ago, he decided to take on noisy land seismic data where more than theory is needed. Christof has been involved with four startup companies in his quest to avoid Houston and make theory commercially viable. He's now on his fifth, last, and craziest startup company, a land seismic processing company so that he can get his hands on more land data. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

Seismic Soundoff
223: Innovating for a Sustainable Future with Geophysics

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2024 25:04


"In the realm of applied geophysics, we have a lot of knowledge, a lot of skills, a lot of experience in dealing with the subsurface, which translates quite well into carbon capture and storage applications." SEG Europe Regional Advisory Committee members discuss the 4th Net-Zero Emissions annual virtual workshop. OVERVIEW > Why it's important to work towards a net-zero emissions future > The role of geophysicists in addressing net-zero challenges > The business opportunities and challenges associated with carbon capture and storage > Why SEG is an effective forum for communication and education Host Andrew Geary delves into the critical role geophysicists play in achieving net-zero emissions with guests Emin Sadikov, Antony Price, and Adriana Citlali Ramírez. They discuss the importance of repurposing knowledge, adapting skill sets, and contributing to carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology innovations. Learn about the industry's challenges and opportunities, the economic implications, and the importance of global cooperation in addressing climate change. For this year's 4th Net-Zero Emissions annual virtual workshop, the organizers will bring together regulators and policymakers, operators, vendors, and academia to have a fruitful discussion on challenges and obstacles and how geoscientists can collaborate to overcome them. In addition, prominent key speakers across Europe will highlight the most successful net-zero journeys across the industry. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to share your case studies, challenges, and proposed solutions. Register for the workshop using the links below. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-223-innovating-for-a-sustainable-future-with-geophysics/ for the complete interview transcript and to register for the workshop. GUEST BIOS Emin Sadikhov joined Equinor in 2010 to work with seismic data processing and analysis, mainly focusing on ocean bottom seismic and time-lapse monitoring. Since 2023, Emin has chaired the SEG Europe Regional Advisory Committee. His passions are innovation, communication, and knowledge sharing. Adriana Citlali Ramírez is the Chief Geophysicist and Senior Director at TGS. She holds a PhD in Physics from the University of Houston's Mission-Oriented Seismic Research Program. Antony Price is a senior geophysical specialist at TotalEnergies based in Pau, France, with over 30 years of experience in various activities, from acquisition to interpretation and reservoir modeling. Antony has been a member of the SEG for over 20 years and with the SEG Europe Regional Advisory Committee since 2017 and is currently the committee's vice-chair. SHOW CREDITS Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. SEG creates these episodes to celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org. Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis.

Seismic Soundoff
222: The Seismic Approach to Mining Geophysics (Heather Schijns)

Seismic Soundoff

Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2024 22:27


"History is telling us that we're likely to get some new discoveries from introducing seismic into our mixture. Nobody understands mineral deposits like the geoscientists who work on them day in, day out." Dr. Heather Schijns explores the groundbreaking use of hard rock seismic data in mineral exploration with insights from one of the most popular papers at IMAGE 2023. OVERVIEW > The transformative impact of seismic data in identifying deeper mineral deposits and reducing exploration risks > The successful application of advanced processing techniques, like full waveform inversion and Kirchhoff pre-stack depth migration, on the Olympic Dam IOCG deposit > The counterintuitive cost benefits of seismic exploration as mining ventures deeper > The strategic approach to de-risking 3D seismic surveys for business stakeholders > The importance of seismic interpretation in effective mineral exploration and the evolving role of geoscientists in this domain > The potential for seismic methods to enhance safety and reduce high-risk activities in mining Host Andrew Geary and Heather Schijns discuss her expanded abstract, "Sparse 3D seismic survey over the Olympic Dam IOCG deposit." This episode delves into why now is the perfect time for the mining industry to embrace seismic methods, especially as the search for base metal resources deepens and conventional geophysical approaches face limitations. Listeners will be captivated by the journey from a sparse 3D seismic survey to a comprehensive understanding of the Olympic Dam deposit and how this approach paves the way for future exploration strategies. The episode also tackles the critical business aspect of seismic exploration, urging listeners to consider the value and risk reduction seismic data can provide. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-222-the-seismic-approach-to-mining-geophysics-heather-schijns/ for the complete interview transcript and all the links referenced in the show. BIOGRAPHY Heather Schijns is the Principal Technical Specialist at Teck Resources Limited, supporting Europe/Africa exploration geophysics and generative. She is a geophysicist with experience exploring North and South America, Australia, and Africa for various commodities, including nickel, copper, lead-zinc, and coal. Heather is skilled in a range of geophysical methods, including gravity, magnetics, EM and MT, with expertise in hard rock seismic and rock physics. She's a published researcher with an MSc and PhD in Geophysics from the University of Alberta focused on hard rock seismic and rock physics. SHOW CREDITS Seismic Soundoff showcases conversations addressing the challenges of energy, water, and climate. SEG creates these episodes to celebrate and inspire the geophysicists of today and tomorrow. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org. Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis.