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.