From Hype to Reality: What Machine Learning Can Actually Do

“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/.