252: How the Ivishak Formation Could Change Carbon Sequestration
“Geophysics lets us predict rock properties where well data is sparse - this is crucial for understanding carbon storage potential.” What if Alaska’s North Slope holds the key to large-scale carbon storage? In this episode, Rae Jacobsen discusses his research on the Ivishak Formation, revealing how geophysics can unlock new possibilities for carbon sequestration. Rae shares how simultaneous inversion, geobody extraction, and machine learning techniques help identify world-class reservoirs and why this could reshape the future of carbon storage. Dr. Rae Jacobsen is a Senior Geophysicist at ConocoPhillips Alaska. His skillset includes prospect exploration and maturation, 3D seismic interpretation, seismic attribute generation/analysis, reservoir characterization, horizontal well planning, well operations and geosteering, lease development, and well log correlation/interpretation. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Game-Changing Carbon Storage Potential: Rae’s research estimates between 1.2 to 3.8 gigatons of carbon storage in the Ivishak Formation - comparable to some of the best reservoirs in the world. > Innovative Geophysical Techniques: Learn how simultaneous inversion and geobody extraction refine our ability to predict reservoir properties, even with limited well data. > The Economics of Carbon Storage: While the geology looks promising, infrastructure and costs remain key challenges, with potential game-changers like a new gas pipeline on the horizon. CALL TO ACTION Want to dive deeper into this research? Rae’s paper is open-access so that you can read it right now in The Leading Edge! Please share it with a colleague, discuss it at your next team meeting, or explore how these methods could apply to your work. https://doi.org/10.1190/tle44010007.1 TEXT A FRIEND If you value this free resource, please message a friend or colleague about this episode. We've provided a sentence you can copy and use to make it as simple as possible. Rae explains how geophysics can help repurpose old oil fields for carbon storage. Super relevant to what we’ve been talking about! https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-252-how-the-ivishak-formation-could-change-carbon-sequestration LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-252-how-the-ivishak-formation-could-change-carbon-sequestration for links to the articles in 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. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.
11 Maalis 22min
250: Bridging Science and Society – The Impact of Geoscientists without Borders
"Humanitarian geophysics isn’t separate from the industry – it’s part of what makes our profession so valuable to the world." In this episode, Geophysical Society of Houston Honoree Craig Beasley discusses the importance of the Geoscientists without Borders (GWB) program for companies interested in aligning with the UNSDGs and achieving their CSR goals. He also shares insights on how geoscientists can use their skills and experience from traditional (O&G) exploration work to contribute to solving humanitarian challenges globally. KEY TAKEAWAYS > The Origins of GWB – Craig shares how a personal connection to the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami and early skepticism from universities led to the creation of GWB. > The Power of Applied Geophysics – GWB projects have made a tangible difference in communities worldwide, from groundwater exploration to natural disaster preparedness. > The Future of Humanitarian Geophysics – Craig discusses the ongoing funding challenges and the importance of inspiring the next generation of geoscientists. CALL TO ACTION Visit Geoscientists without Borders to learn more about current projects, see how you can support them, or even propose your project to make a difference. https://seg.org/gwb TEXT A FRIEND RIGHT NOW! Craig Beasley explains why humanitarian geophysics is more important than ever. You will like this episode if you care about using science for good! https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-250-bridging-science-and-society-the-impact-of-geoscientists-without-borders GUEST BIO Craig Beasley completed B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in mathematics and joined Western Geophysical in 1981. He has spent his entire career in Schlumberger companies and their antecedents, serving in various technical and management positions, including VP for R&D and VP of Data Processing. He has received technical and honorary awards from entities such as Litton Industries, Schlumberger, and the Society of Exploration Geophysicists. In retirement, he has served as the General Chair for the 2017 SEG Annual Meeting in Houston, sits on the board of the SEG Foundation, and enjoys pursuing his passion for underwater photography and video. He has recently been elected President-elect for the Geophysical Society of Houston. LINKS * Learn more about GWB and previous projects -> https://seg.org/programs/geoscientists-without-borders/ * Donate to Geoscientists without Borders -> https://foundation.seg.org/forms/seg-foundation- * Register for the GSH Spring Symposium -> https://www.gshtx.org/Public/SharedContent/Events/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=4ca2978c-e6e0-4eb3-969f-6207b27e604f&iSearchResult=true * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-250-bridging-science-and-society-the-impact-of-geoscientists-without-borders for the full 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.
20 Helmi 27min
249: Machine Learning Methods in Geoscience
“The biggest challenge for geophysicists? Learning machine learning's ‘new language’ from the world of statistics.” Machine learning is transforming geoscience, and Gerard Schuster explains how. This conversation explores key ML applications in seismic interpretation, the role of convolutional neural networks in fault detection, and why hands-on labs are essential for mastering these techniques. With real-world examples and insights from his new book, Machine Learning Methods in Geoscience, this episode delivers practical knowledge for integrating ML into geophysics. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Why ML matters for geoscientists – The demand for ML skills is growing, and Jerry shares how this shift shapes education and careers. > CNNs in action – Convolutional neural networks are used to detect rock cracks in Saudi Arabia through drone imagery. > Transformers vs. traditional neural networks – Transformers process seismic data differently by capturing long-range dependencies, offering new advantages. NEXT STEP Explore Machine Learning Methods in Geoscience by Gerard Schuster, featuring hands-on MATLAB and Colab labs. Get the book and start applying ML techniques today! https://library.seg.org/doi/epdf/10.1190/1.9781560804048.fm TEXT A FRIEND These are great insights on how ML is actually being used in seismic work, not just theory. 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. His previous books are Seismic Interferometry (2009, Cambridge Press) and Seismic Inversion (2017, SEG). LINKS * Buy the Print Book at https://seg.org/shop/product/?id=fe5a3cd3-77b2-ef11-b8e8-6045bda82e05 * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-249-machine-learning-methods-in-geoscience 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/. 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.
13 Helmi 24min
248: AI, FWI, and the Future of Subsurface Imaging
"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.
6 Helmi 33min
247: From Pitfalls to Potential - Making the Most of Seismic Attributes
"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.
23 Tammi 26min
246: Combining Tradition and Innovation in Seismic Problem Solving
"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.
16 Tammi 27min
245: Fiber Optics in Action - The Future of Geophysical Sensing
"Fiber optics can thrive in the harshest environments, proving robust for oil, gas, and carbon capture projects." This episode dives into the cutting-edge world of fiber optics with Joël Le Calvez, guest editor for November 2024's The Leading Edge. Fiber optics, a technology ubiquitous in daily life, is revolutionizing geophysics, offering real-time, cost-effective, and highly precise data collection capabilities. Joël breaks down six groundbreaking papers showcasing how fiber optics transform oil and gas, carbon capture, and even seafloor imaging. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Revolutionary Applications: Fiber optics enables continuous, distributed sensing over large areas, reducing costs and increasing operational efficiency for seismic surveys, leak detection, and more. > Cutting-Edge Innovations: The special section highlights advancements in distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) for seismic profiling, carbon storage monitoring, and real-time event detection. > Bridging Disciplines: Fiber optics has the potential to break down silos in geoscience, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration through shared data acquisition methods. NEXT STEP Explore the November 2024 issue of The Leading Edge to dive deeper into these transformative studies. Read the special section at https://library.seg.org/toc/leedff/43/11 and consider how fiber optics can innovate your projects. TEXT A FRIEND Ever wonder how real-time sensing can monitor CO2 storage? This podcast brilliantly explains it. Listen here: https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-245-fiber-optics-in-action-the-future-of-geophysical-sensing. GUEST BIO Joël Le Calvez graduated with a B. Sc. in Physics, an M. Sc. in Geosciences, a pre-doctoral degree in Geodynamics, and a Ph. D. in Geology. For two decades, Joel spent time in the field and the office helping decide on drilling locations, acquiring and processing microseismic data, and leading teams of geologists, geophysicists, and engineers in North America about hydraulic fracturing campaigns. 2014 Joel became the Global Head of the Geophysics Domain and added the North America Well Integrity and Production Logging businesses to his portfolio. In January 2022, Joel took the Reservoir Performance Optical Fiber program manager position before adding the Production Services portfolio a semester later. He coordinates the effort associated with cable and interrogator manufacturing, research and development directions, and business-focused answer products for all domains relying on fiber optic to acquire data. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-245-fiber-optics-in-action-the-future-of-geophysical-sensing for the complete show notes and links to read this special section. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS OPENS 15 JANUARY 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 opens on 15 January 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. 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.
9 Tammi 26min
