251: From Noise to Knowledge – Lessons in Geophysics and Innovation w/ Joe Dellinger

"The Zohr discovery is an interesting one because all of a sudden it makes everybody sort of scratch their head and go like, 'So what have we missed elsewhere?'" Dr. Walter Rietveld discusses September's The Leading Edge, which focuses on the Eastern Mediterranean. In this episode: > Discover the challenges and opportunities in the Eastern Mediterranean's oil and gas exploration, a region attracting significant industry interest due to recent discoveries and proximity to major markets. > Explore the complexities of the Messenian interval, a geographically variable layer that creates significant hurdles for seismic imaging. > Learn how innovative technologies like multi-azimuth seismic and ocean bottom node (OBN) acquisition and advanced processing techniques like full waveform inversion (FWI) are being used to overcome these imaging challenges. > Examine the success story of the Atoll field, where OBN acquisition and advanced imaging led to significant improvements in seismic data quality, enabling better reservoir characterization and well planning. > Understand the shift in exploration focus from post-Messenian to deeper pre-Messenian plays, driven by factors like the depletion of shallower targets and the potential of deeper channel systems as reservoirs. This interview focuses on the challenges and technological advancements in Eastern Mediterranean oil and gas exploration. Walter discusses how innovations such as multi-azimuth seismic, ocean bottom node acquisition, and full waveform inversion improve subsurface imaging, particularly in geologically complex areas like the Messenian interval. He highlights the success of these technologies in the Atoll field. He suggests that similar techniques, successfully employed in other regions like the Gulf of Mexico, hold promise for maximizing the value of existing data in the Eastern Mediterranean. Walter encourages listeners to explore the special section on the Eastern Mediterranean in The Leading Edge to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and solutions discussed. He closes the conversation, emphasizing the importance of collaboration within the industry, even among competitors, for advancing exploration efforts. THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY VIRIDIEN Viridien is an advanced technology, digital, and Earth data company that pushes the boundaries of science for a more prosperous and sustainable future. With comprehensive geoscience expertise, remarkable subsurface imaging, and a unique Earth data library, Viridien provides new insights to reduce exploration risk and optimize field development. Learn how Viridien can help you meet complex challenges in frontier basins around the world. Visit https://www.viridiengroup.com - and see things differently. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-236-unlocking-the-eastern-mediterraneans-seismic-secrets/ for the complete show notes and the links for September'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. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

3 Loka 202429min

"Geophysics can be used as a science tool to inform and engage the community and to give them the autonomy to make educated decisions." Dr. Julia Correa discusses August's The Leading Edge, which focuses on geophysics and sustainability. In this episode, we talk about: > How applied geophysics and seismic methods are a natural fit for ensuring safe and compliant carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) projects. > The importance of clear and effective science communication between geophysicists and stakeholders, including the public, regarding topics like CCUS. > How innovative technologies, like fiber optics, drones (UAVs), and machine learning, are being integrated into geophysical research and data acquisition to create more robust monitoring solutions for various applications, including sustainable energy. > How geophysics enables a carbon-neutral future, specifically in areas like geothermal energy, hydrogen storage, and lithium extraction. > The need for geophysicists to expand their understanding of sustainability beyond resource extraction to focus on how their work can positively impact the planet and inform the public. Julia concludes with a call to action, urging geophysicists to think beyond short-term solutions and embrace innovative geophysics applications for a sustainable future. She challenges the community to push the boundaries of the field and actively engage with the public to ensure a healthy planet for generations to come. 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. GUEST BIO Dr. Julia Correa is a Research Scientist in the Energy Geoscience Division. Her research is focused on developing an intelligent seismic monitoring array for subsurface surveillance in energy-related projects (Carbon Capture and Storage, Enhanced Geothermal, Oil & Gas). She uses fiber-optic sensing and permanent surface orbital vibrators (SOV) to develop an alternative, cost-effective monitoring system. Julia is involved in the optimization of acquisition and processing flows, as well as in the development of new fiber-optic cable designs. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-235-advancing-sustainability-through-applied-geophysics/ for the complete show notes and the links for August'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. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

26 Syys 202421min

"We are trying to enable the geoscientists to do their work better and faster." In this episode, we explore the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in seismic interpretation, focusing on the advantages of a data-centric approach over the traditional model-centric method. Morten Ofstad, a computer scientist, emphasizes the limitations of pre-trained "black box" deep learning models and advocates for interactive deep learning to improve interpretation accuracy. The discussion highlights VDS, a data format designed for random access and compression, and emphasizes the importance of empowering geoscientists to interact directly with AI-driven interpretation processes. In this episode, we talk about: > The differences between model-centric and data-centric approaches to AI in seismic interpretation. > The limitations of "black box" deep learning models in seismic interpretation and how an interactive approach can improve accuracy and insights. > The importance of high-quality data and accurate labels in training AI models for seismic interpretation and how the data-centric approach helps identify inaccuracies. > How virtual data storage (VDS), a data format designed for random access and compression, can improve the efficiency of data-centric AI workflows in seismic interpretation. > The potential of data-centric AI to empower geoscientists, enabling them to work faster and more accurately. THIS EPISODE IS 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 Morten Ofstad has worked with computer graphics since graduating from high school. As one of the first employees of Norwegian games developer Funcom, he created the game engine for the 2D games that formed the basis of Funcom's initial growth. He's been working as the lead developer of several successful game titles from studios like Sony Computer Entertainment Europe in London and Innerloop Studios in Oslo. Between jobs in the games industry, he completed an M.Sc. in computer science at the University of Oslo, graduating with honors. Besides 3D graphics, Morten's interests include compiler technology, system architecture, and image processing. KEY IDEAS AND FACTS * Limitations of Model-Centric AI * Benefits of Data-Centric & Interactive Deep Learning * Addressing Challenges of Data Quality and Labeling * VDS Data Format as an Enabler CALL TO ACTION * Explore how data-centric AI tools can be integrated into geoscientists' workflows. * Move beyond simply asking questions and receiving answers, and instead utilize AI to "interrogate your data" and gain deeper insights. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-234-how-ai-is-being-applied-to-seismic-interpretation/ for a breakdown of the key terms discussed 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.

19 Syys 202421min

"The critical zone are the things that impact humans and animals on the earth, more so than a lot of other parts that geophysicists might study." Kamini Singha explores the fascinating world of the Earth's critical zone. This episode uncovers the significance of this thin skin of the Earth and its profound impact on human and ecological systems. In this episode, we talk about: > The definition and importance of the Earth's critical zone > Challenges in studying the critical zone and the need for cross-disciplinary collaboration > The role of geophysics as a "macroscope" to study large-scale subsurface processes > Specific examples of geophysical methods used to study critical zone processes > Insights from Kamini's research on solute transport and groundwater remediation > Emerging trends in hydrogeophysics and critical zone science > The importance of understanding geophysical measurements in complex Earth systems Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the critical zone's role in addressing major Anthropocene issues such as freshwater supply, groundwater quality, and climate regulation. This episode is a must-listen for geophysicists and anyone interested in the intersection of geoscience and environmental sustainability. 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 Kamini Singha is a University Distinguished Professor and the Associate Dean of Earth and Society Programs at the Colorado School of Mines. Her research interests are focused on hydrogeology and environmental geophysics. Dr. Singha is an award-winning teacher, a recipient of a U.S. National Science Foundation CAREER award and the Early Career Award from the Society of Environmental and Engineering Geophysics, a Geological Society of America Fellow, and a former Fulbright Scholar. She served as the U.S. National Groundwater Association’s Darcy Lecturer in 2017 and was the AGU Witherspoon Lecturer in 2022. She earned her BS in geophysics from the University of Connecticut and her PhD in hydrogeology from Stanford University. LINKS * Learn more and register for the 2024 Near Surface Global Lecturer (30 September or 19 November) -> https://seg.org/education/lectures/near-surface-global-lecture-singha/ * Interview transcript -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JmzLFHnHI2ugHVAZOd_pT3xRcg4YHsvo/view?usp=sharing 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.

12 Syys 202422min

"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.

6 Elo 202420min

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.

25 Heinä 202421min

"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.

18 Heinä 202431min

"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.

11 Heinä 202426min