#9: Mentoring geoscience leaders

In this episode, host Andrew Geary speaks with Ray Abma on his new book, Simultaneous Source Seismic Acquisition. This book introduces simultaneous source technology and helps those who practice it succeed. This work is written through the lens of decades of experience and allows readers to understand the development of independent simultaneous sourcing. In this widely relevant and persuasive interview, Ray shares why you should acquire seismic data using simultaneous source acquisition, the close relationship between data acquisition and data processing, how marine seismic interference may be a thing of the past, and tips on convincing management and technical staff to use this new technology. This conversation applies to a wide variety of disciplines and jobs - make sure to listen! Visit https://seg.org/podcast for the complete show notes and links to purchase the book. BIOGRAPHY Ray Abma graduated from Stanford University in 1995 with a Ph.D. in geophysics after working in the Stanford Exploration Project with Jon Claerbout as his advisor. He graduated from Iowa State University in 1974 with a B.S. in Physics and minors in Mathematics and Computer Science. He worked for BP and ARCO as a senior research geophysicist from 1997 to 2018, Shell from 1995 to 1997, and Western Geophysical from 1974 to 1991. He is presently a visiting scientist at the Texas Consortium for Computational Seismology (TCCS) at the University of Texas in Austin. Ray’s research interests are noise attenuation, interpolation and regularization, simultaneous sourcing, and coded sources. Ray’s interests are seismic interpolation and regularization, multiple and noise attenuation, sparse inversion, coded source seismic acquisition, and simultaneous source acquisition. He is a member of SEG, EAGE, GSH, and SIAM. SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by TGS. TGS offers a wide range of energy data and insights to meet the industry where it’s at and where it’s headed. TGS provides scientific data and intelligence to companies active in the energy sector. In addition to a global, extensive and diverse energy data library, TGS offers specialized services such as advanced processing and analytics alongside cloud-based data applications and solutions. Visit https://www.tgs.com to learn more. CREDITS Original music by Zach Bridges. This episode was hosted, edited, and produced by Andrew Geary at 51 features, LLC. Thank you to the SEG podcast team: Ted Bakamjian, Jennifer Crockett, Ally McGinnis, and Mick Swiney.

18 Mars 202123min

In this episode, host Andrew Geary speaks with Stephen J. Hill on his new book, Illustrated Seismic Processing, Volume 2: Preimaging. Along with Steve's co-author Andreas Rüger, this second volume of Illustrated Seismic Processing provides a foundation for understanding the vigorous, relevant, and fascinating field of seismic processing, addressing that portion that precedes migration. Written for the non-expert, this second volume of the two-volume introductory text reveals the limitations and potential pitfalls of seismic data, explains seismic processing operations as a series of solutions to problems, and demonstrates the dependence of a final interpretable seismic volume on its many seismic processing decisions. In this engaging interview, Steve shares why they decided to present the seismic processing topics in reverse order, tips for seismic interpreters and acquisition specialists that work alongside seismic processing geophysicists, and why seismic processing is both an art and a science. And also discover Steve's journey from an astrophysicist to writing two books on seismic processing! Visit https://seg.org/podcast for the complete show notes and links to purchase the books. BIOGRAPHY Stephen J. Hill is an adjunct professor of geophysics at Colorado School of Mines and University of Houston. He holds a bachelor’s degree in physics from Iowa State University and a doctorate in physics and astrophysics from the University of Colorado. He worked for Conoco 1978–2002 as a processing geophysicist, manager of Conoco Seismic Processing, an interpreter of Oklahoma and Gulf of Mexico seismic data, and technology consultant for Conoco management. Hill was 2009–2010 SEG president and 2003–2004 SEG secretary-treasurer. He received SEG Special Commendation in 2000. SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by TGS. TGS offers a wide range of energy data and insights to meet the industry where it’s at and where it’s headed. TGS provides scientific data and intelligence to companies active in the energy sector. In addition to a global, extensive and diverse energy data library, TGS offers specialized services such as advanced processing and analytics alongside cloud-based data applications and solutions. Visit https://www.tgs.com to learn more. CREDITS Original music by Zach Bridges. This episode was hosted, edited, and produced by Andrew Geary at 51 features, LLC. Thank you to the SEG podcast team: Ted Bakamjian, Jennifer Crockett, Ally McGinnis, and Mick Swiney.

11 Mars 202118min

Dr. Xiaogui Miao highlights her SEG Honorary Lecture 2021 talk, "From multi-component imaging to ocean bottom seismic technology - challenges or opportunities?". In this intriguing conversation, Xiaogui makes a convincing argument that utilizing multi-component imaging is a low-cost and low-effort option for companies to better discover oil and gas. She also discusses how utilizing multi-component technology is like moving from black and white images to color and how recent advancements in converted-wave imaging have addressed long-standing challenges. This episode will challenge the status quo and help the geophysicist make a persuasive case to management to use multi-component imaging. Visit https://seg.org/podcast for the complete show notes and links for Xiaogui's free lecture. BIOGRAPHY Xiaogui Miao, Ph.D. quested after multi-component imaging and processing technologies for more than 20 years. Dr. Xiaogui Miao has the expertise and possessed extensive experience in land 3D3C and Ocean Bottom Sensor (OBC & OBN) 3D4C imaging from North America to Asia Pacific (APAC) region. After graduation from the University of Manitoba, Canada with a Ph.D. in geophysics, Dr. Xiaogui Miao joined Veritas Geophysical Services Ltd. in Calgary, Canada in 1994, then became a geophysical research scientist there. In 2008, after Veritas and CGG merged, she was assigned as research and processing center manager at CGG’s newly -opened Beijing Center, then moved to Singapore in 2015, the APAC Hub of CGG, where she has since been in charge of multi-component and seabed imaging research. Dr. Xiaogui has developed a variety of multi-component processing and imaging technologies and published many articles. Her recent research work has involved the development of surface wave and guided wave inversions for shear wave statics correction and shallow Vs and Vp model building, PS wave OBS data velocity analysis from rough seafloors, and incorporating of PP and PS data for wavefield leakage reduction, etc. She also has played a crucial role in providing technical advisories and supervisions to overcome serious challenges in different types of multi-component processing and imaging projects in the APAC region from land to OBC/OBN and from shallow water to deep water. Her areas of study have covered from Cuu Long Basin, Offshore Vietnam, Malaysia Basins, Indonesia’s LNG and gas fields, to Bohai Bay, Offshore South China Sea, and Xinjiang of Northwest China, etc. To demonstrate the values of multi-component technology, she has pushed converted wave imaging into joint PP-PS inversion for reservoir characterization so to enhance the opportunities of hydrocarbon discovery as well. SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by TGS. TGS offers a wide range of energy data and insights to meet the industry where it’s at and where it’s headed. TGS provides scientific data and intelligence to companies active in the energy sector. In addition to a global, extensive and diverse energy data library, TGS offers specialized services such as advanced processing and analytics alongside cloud-based data applications and solutions. Visit https://www.tgs.com to learn more. CREDITS Original music by Zach Bridges. This episode was hosted, edited, and produced by Andrew Geary at 51 features, LLC. Thank you to the SEG podcast team: Ted Bakamjian, Jennifer Crockett, Ally McGinnis, and Mick Swiney.

4 Mars 202119min

In this episode, host Andrew Geary speaks with Kerry Key and Chloe Gustafson on their massive freshwater discovery off the East Coast of the United States. According to the United Nations, 60% of the world's population lives in places with high water stress, meaning that more water is being withdrawn than is currently available. In this crucial conversation, Kerry and Chloe discuss how they used existing geophysical techniques in a new way to discover freshwater off the United States' Atlantic Coast, the equivalent amount that would fill 1.1 billion Olympic-sized swimming pools. Kerry and Chloe also share how scientists in other parts of the world could utilize this discovery to find their own sources of freshwater and what the future could look like if electromagnetic methods get widely adopted for seeking freshwater. This is a fun and exciting conversation on how geophysics can help the world. You'll want to share this one with your family and friends! Visit https://seg.org/podcast for the links to the research and to see the discovery in action. BIOGRAPHIES Dr. Kerry Key is an Associate Professor at Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory at Columbia University. His research interests include electromagnetic geophysics, marine geophysics, numerical and computational geophysics, hydrocarbon exploration, mid-ocean ridges, subduction zones, volcanoes, mantle dynamics, and instrumentation design. Dr. Chloe Gustafson is a postdoctoral researcher at Swansea University and investigates hydrogeologic systems hidden beneath oceans and ice sheets. Chloe primarily uses marine and polar electromagnetic methods to image the groundwater systems and integrates geochemical, geological, and other geophysical datasets to develop holistic integrated interpretations. SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by CGG. When searching for and developing freshwater resources, imagine what you could do with an effective map of what’s underground. CGG’s Multiphysics Imaging experts can use a range of methods to locate freshwater reserves and flag potential subsurface issues before they become bigger problems. Gain a fresh perspective with CGG’s proven technology and unmatched experience…and see things differently at https://www.cgg.com/. CREDITS Original music by Zach Bridges. This episode was hosted, edited, and produced by Andrew Geary at 51 features, LLC. Thank you to the SEG podcast team: Ted Bakamjian, Jennifer Crockett, Ally McGinnis, and Mick Swiney.

18 Feb 202124min

In this episode, host Andrew Geary speaks with Jean Legault on mining geophysics, the featured special section in February's The Leading Edge. In this conversation, Jean highlights the similarities and differences of mining geophysics with seismic, why now is a great time to be a mining geophysicist, and the growth of machine learning in the field. There's something in this interview for everyone. Visit https://seg.org/podcast for the complete show notes and links to this month's special section on mining geophysics. BIOGRAPHY Jean M. Legault is a 30-year career exploration geophysicist. He obtained his Bachelor's degree in applied science (geophysics) at Queen's University at Kingston, ON, and his Master's degree in applied science (geophysics) at École Polytechnique of University of Montreal, QC. He is an experienced geophysicist in both the ground and airborne geophysics sectors since 1985. He is chief geophysicist at Geotech Ltd. (Aurora), a worldwide airborne geophysical service provider, where he is mainly interested in passive and active-source airborne EM methods as geological mapping tools for mineral exploration and groundwater. Jean has authored and co-authored over 50 papers and journal articles and has been a regular speaker at geophysical conferences around the world over the last 10 years. He is a past president of KEGS, past co-chair of the SEG Mining Committee, a director of the KEGS Foundation, and a member of SEG, ASEG, EAGE, as well as APEO, APGO, and OGQ. SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by CGG. Challenges found throughout the mining lifecycle don’t get answered without in-depth knowledge—that’s why CGG provides data and analysis you need to dig deeper. Gain more insight with CGG life-of-mine solutions, from exploration studies to tailings and closure monitoring. When you need to dig deeper, CGG can help you see things differently at https://www.cgg.com/. CREDITS Original music by Zach Bridges. This episode was hosted, edited, and produced by Andrew Geary at 51 features, LLC. Thank you to the SEG podcast team: Ted Bakamjian, Jennifer Crockett, Ally McGinnis, and Mick Swiney.

11 Feb 202121min

Dr. Adriana Citlali Ramírez highlights her SEG Honorary Lecture Europe 2021 talk, "Seismic technology in northern European waters and the prevalence of multiples." In this compelling conversation, Adriana showcases the value of exploring and developing mature oil and gas fields, the value of moving first on new technology, and offers great advice to succeed in the industry. This episode will convince you to sign up for her free lecture! Visit https://seg.org/podcast for the complete show notes and links for Adriana's free lecture. BIOGRAPHY Adriana Citlali Ramírez is a Mexican citizen who has a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Houston’s Mission-Oriented Seismic Research Program. During her graduate studies, Adriana did internships with Shell, Statoil (now Equinor), ConocoPhillips, and BP. After graduation, she worked in R&D at WesternGeco in the United States, and later at PGS in the UK. In 2012, Adriana joined Equinor’s Research and Technology Exploration unit in Norway, where she led the R&D work related to broadband technology. She later moved to Geophysical Operations and focused on survey design and new technological developments. During her last years at Equinor, she worked as a geophysics specialist in the Chief Geophysicist’s Team in Exploration. In August 2019, Adriana joined TGS in the position of Chief Geophysicist. She has an advisory role for the discipline of geophysics where she focuses on strategy, business, and technology with emphasis on Europe and Russia. Adriana has authored four patents and more than 50 technical publications. She is a member of the EAGE Research Committee, SEG Research Committee, SEG Women’s Network Committee, and Founding Chair of the SEG Europe Regional Advisory Committee. From May 2018 to December 2019, she served on the Board of Directors of SEAM (SEG Advanced Modeling Corporation), where she is now the vice-chair of the Board and chair-elect for 2021. In early 2020, she was awarded the first-ever Monterrey Institute of Technology (Tecnológico de Monterrey) EXATEC Career Award and was chosen as the SEG Honorary Lecturer for Europe in 2021. SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by CGG. Instead of seeing multiples in the North Sea as the enemy, why not put them to work? CGG uses multiples to build better velocity models and images that give unique clarity for near-field exploration and development. With its TopSeis data in the Barents Sea, plus new OBN and duel-azimuth data sets featuring time-lag FWI, CGG provides unmatched insight into North European waters. Contact CGG at https://www.cgg.com/ today to learn how to see things differently during North Sea exploration. CREDITS Original music by Zach Bridges. This episode was hosted, edited, and produced by Andrew Geary at 51 features, LLC. Thank you to the SEG podcast team: Ted Bakamjian, Jennifer Crockett, Ally McGinnis, and Mick Swiney.

4 Feb 202123min

In this episode, host Andrew Geary speaks with Emer Caslin on the Geophysical Sustainability Atlas, the featured article in January's The Leading Edge. To help provide a clear value proposition to inspire new generations of scientists to pursue careers in geophysics and motivate current geophysicists to expand their activities and utilize their skills, a small group worked on mapping geophysical applications and practices to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in 2015. This Geophysical Sustainability Atlas was developed to illustrate how geophysics contributes to each of the SDGs and to provide examples of specific applications and collaboration strategies. In this conversation, Emer provides an overview of the Atlas, how individuals and companies can utilize it to create meaningful impact, how professional societies can contribute to the SDGs, and why incorporating the SDGs into strategic planning could support the next generation of geophysicists. This is an important topic for the future of the field and outlines a powerful path forward for individuals, companies, and society. Visit https://seg.org/podcast for the complete show notes and links to the article and this month's special section on remote sensing. BIOGRAPHY Emer Caslin is a Geoscientist with Schlumberger. She graduated with a BSc in Geology from Queens University Belfast and an MSc in Reservoir Geoscience and Engineering from the IFP School in Paris. She has been employed with Schlumberger since 2004 specializing in reservoir interpretation, structural and property modeling. She has held roles in technical consulting, business development, and Petrel Portfolio Management; ranging from daily technical operation support to advising on corporate-level geoscience strategy. Emer has a keen interest in understanding how geoscientists can help shape and influence sustainability in our evolving energy sector and has recently taken a leave of absence from Schlumberger to focus on areas such as solutions for the energy transition, risk, and social acceptance of the extractive industry & achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals – collaborating within and outside the industry, with academia & professional bodies. SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by CGG. As we look to opportunities and face the challenges of the New Year, CGG’s resolution is to play a key role in solving the complex natural resource, environmental, and infrastructure challenges around the globe. Bringing 90 years of earth science expertise and innovation, CGG is working with its clients to understand, monitor, and manage impacts on the environment. With collaboration and commitment, we can all realize a more sustainable future for people and our planet. Discover how CGG can help you see things differently at https://www.cgg.com/. CREDITS Original music by Zach Bridges. This episode was hosted, edited, and produced by Andrew Geary at 51 features, LLC. Thank you to the SEG podcast team: Ted Bakamjian, Jennifer Crockett, Ally McGinnis, and Mick Swiney.

21 Jan 202127min

In this episode, host Andrew Geary speaks with Les Denham on his new book, Blizzards and Broken Grousers: A Year of Antarctic Glaciology. Detailing one year of Antarctic field operations in 1970–71 acquiring ice thickness data with radar, gravity, and magnetometer measurements, this book depicts the pioneering spirit of geophysics in the time when field operations spanned the globe. Moreover, the data collected now underpin models of ice behavior used to assess climate change. Les offers a rare personal account of a scientific journey. This book (https://seg.org/shop/products/detail/237626086) provides a detailed account of the author’s Antarctic experience in a time before GPS, satellite communications, internet, and even links to Antarctica by air. In this conversation, Les shares the inspiration behind the book, his most memorable field trip in Antarctica, and how the technology he utilized in 1970 can help the geophysicists of today. Visit https://seg.org/podcast for the complete show notes and links to buy both the print and e-book versions. BIOGRAPHY Les Denham has worked in geosciences for more than fifty years since graduating from the University of Sydney with a double major in Geology and Geophysics. He has worked on the ground in all seven continents and has worked on data from more than twenty nations. This work has been done for oil companies, service companies, consulting companies, and government organizations. His work has included geophysical data acquisition, geophysical interpretation, prospect development, basin analysis, property evaluation, and risk assessment, as well as research and software development. Since 2013 he has been an independent geoscientist, with much of his time spent working for Dynamic Measurement LLC. He has published about twenty papers and articles and has been awarded two U.S. patents, with one pending. SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by CGG. As we look to opportunities and face the challenges of the New Year, CGG’s resolution is to play a key role in solving the complex natural resource, environmental, and infrastructure challenges around the globe. Bringing 90 years of earth science expertise and innovation, CGG is working with its clients to understand, monitor, and manage impacts on the environment. With collaboration and commitment, we can all realize a more sustainable future for people and our planet. Discover how CGG can help you see things differently at https://www.cgg.com/. CREDITS Original music by Zach Bridges. This episode was hosted, edited, and produced by Andrew Geary at 51 features, LLC. Thank you to the SEG podcast team: Ted Bakamjian, Jennifer Crockett, Ally McGinnis, and Mick Swiney.

14 Jan 202120min