"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 [email protected].

“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 [email protected].

"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 [email protected].

"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 [email protected].

"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 [email protected].

"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 [email protected].

"Collaboration across disciplines and regions is where significant advancements in geophysics happen. It’s at these intersections that we push boundaries."

President John Eastwood shares his inspiring vision for the Society of Exploration Geophysicists in 2025. From advancing the next generation of geophysicists to fostering global collaboration, John outlines his priorities for ensuring the SEG remains a leading force in applied geophysics. Join us for the final episode of 2024 as John discusses the importance of innovation, inclusion, and sustainability in shaping the future of the geophysics community.

Key Takeaways

===========

* Broadening Geophysics: John highlights the evolution of applied geophysics, emphasizing its growing relevance in renewable energy, CO2 storage, and environmental solutions beyond traditional oil and gas applications.

* Empowering the Next Generation: SEG’s future depends on nurturing the next wave of geophysicists through scholarships, leadership programs, and global outreach initiatives in emerging regions like China, India, and South America.

* Elevating SEG’s Impact: A commitment to enhancing SEG’s publications, workshops, and conventions ensures members at every career stage feel supported and engaged.

* Global and Interdisciplinary Collaboration: John underscores the value of partnerships, whether with the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) or through innovative research at the intersection of geophysics and other disciplines.

Follow Seismic Soundoff to stay updated on significant conversations like this one.

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.

Links

====

- Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-244-from-vision-to-action-the-future-of-seg-under-john-eastwood for John's biography and links to read his 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 [email protected].

"The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami was a wake-up call. It showed me that even the best science fails without effective communication and proactive strategies to save lives."

In this episode, host Andrew Geary talks with Ron Harris, Geological Sciences Professor at Brigham Young University, about his groundbreaking work in disaster preparedness. Ron shares insights from his Global Sustainability lecture (supported by the Baker Hughes Foundation) and the Geoscientists without Borders Java WAVES project, which focuses on how scientific research can save lives in disaster-prone regions.

KEY POINTS & TAKEAWAYS

> Proactive Disaster Preparedness: Ron champions moving beyond reactive approaches, using community-based education to prepare for potential hazards before they occur.

> The "20-20-20" Evacuation Principle: This innovative rule helps communities quickly self-evacuate after earthquakes. By combining scientific data with simple messaging, Ron created a lifesaving tool anyone can understand and implement.

> Science Meets Community Action: Through his WAVES team, Geoscientists without Borders, and In Harm's Way, Ron proves that bridging scientific insights with local leadership can dramatically reduce disaster risks.

> Cultural Engagement: Ron has found powerful ways to boost community preparedness by collaborating with Indonesian scouting groups and integrating local heroes into disaster messaging.

> A Challenge to Future Geoscientists: Ron encourages young researchers to align their skills with societal needs, demonstrating how scientific expertise can create real-world impact.

LINKS

* Support GWB - https://seg.org/programs/geoscientists-without-borders/

* Register for Ron's talk - https://seg.org/education/lectures/seg-global-sustainability-lectures-ron-harris/

* Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-243-saving-lives-before-disaster-strikes-ron-harris-on-proactive-risk-reduction/ to discover past podcasts on humanitarian geophysics and all the links for this episode.

GUEST BIO

Professor Ron Harris specializes in plate tectonics and associated geophysical hazards. He received his BSc. in Geology from the University of Oregon, an MSc. in Geophysics from the Geophysical Institute of Alaska, and a Ph.D. in Geodynamics from University College London, UK.

Ron has worked for oil, mining, and environmental companies, for the U.S. Geological Survey, and with the governments of several developing countries threatened by natural hazards. Dr. Harris has taught at universities in the U.S., Great Britain, Oman, Taiwan, and Indonesia. He has been invited to make over 200 presentations, has 95 peer-reviewed publications, written books and garnered several research grants and awards.

Dr. Harris’ research integrates many sub-disciplines, but the common thread is applying geoscience to societal needs. He founded the nonprofit organization In Harm's Way, which identifies areas most vulnerable to natural disasters and helps community-based organizations communicate risk and implement effective risk-reduction strategies that save thousands of lives.

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 [email protected].

"The geosciences cover everything from the air we breathe to the ground we walk on, and our job is to make sure policymakers see its critical value. Our reports are about translating complex science into something everyone can understand and use."

In this episode, we speak with David Wunsch to explore how geoscience can shape policy decisions that impact everyday lives. David dives into the American Geosciences Institute's (AGI) Critical Needs Document, which outlines essential priorities for geoscience in policy discussions, especially during major political transitions. Learn why concise and accessible communication is vital for bridging the gap between science and policy and how geoscientists can influence real-world change.

KEY POINTS & TAKEAWAYS

> Bringing Science to Policy: The AGI's Critical Needs Document is crafted every four years to inform policymakers, emphasizing the role of geoscience in economic, environmental, and infrastructure-related decisions.

> Effective Communication: With rapid political turnover, creating concise, accessible documents is crucial for educating experienced policymakers and newcomers about the relevance of geoscience.

> Hot Topics in Geoscience: From national security, critical minerals, and groundwater resources, the report covers pressing geoscience issues that need urgent legislative attention.

> Opportunities for Collaboration: David highlights examples of cross-disciplinary work, like wildfire management, that showcase the impact of diverse geoscience specialties working together.

> Get Involved: David challenges listeners to engage in local and national policy discussions, emphasizing that informed geoscientists can shape better decisions and counter misinformation.

Listen in to discover that, as a geoscientist or citizen, you can make a difference by bringing the power of geoscience to the forefront of policy and public awareness.

LINKS

* Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-242-shaping-policy-with-geoscience-agis-critical-needs-document/ for the links to the Critical Needs Document and more.

GUEST BIO

David R. Wunsch became the Director and State Geologist at the Delaware Geological Survey in November 2011 after serving as the Director of Science and Technology at the National Ground Water Association. Previously, he was the State Geologist of New Hampshire (NH) from 2000 to 2010, with roles on the NH Joint Board of Geology and the NH Water Well Board. Wunsch is a Licensed Professional Geologist in multiple states and has been an adjunct professor and visiting scholar.

In 1998-99, Wunsch served as the American Geological Institute Congressional Science Fellow, advising the House Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources. His career includes roles as an instructor at Central Michigan University and coordinator for the Coal Field Hydrology Program at the Kentucky Geological Survey. His expertise spans groundwater monitoring, geochemistry, mine hydrology, and engineering geology.

Wunsch has held several prominent roles, including testifying before Congress on water and energy, serving on federal advisory committees, and representing scientific organizations like the Association of American State Geologists. He has received numerous accolades, including the AGI’s Outstanding Contribution to the Understanding of Geoscience award and selection as a U.S. Water Partnership consultant.

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 [email protected].

"Geophysics and archaeology are merging in a powerful way, helping us understand ancient communities without damaging their sites. It’s about learning from the past while honoring it."

In this episode, we look at how geophysics transforms archaeology by enabling researchers to uncover hidden historical sites without digging. Guests Michael Wilt and Richard Krahenbuhl discuss incredible advances in non-invasive tools like ground-penetrating radar and drones, which help archaeologists map ancient structures, even in challenging urban environments. From Egypt’s pyramids to hidden city sites, learn how geophysical tools give us new ways to explore history and preserve it for future generations.

KEY POINTS & TAKEAWAYS

> How Geophysics is Shaping Archaeology: Discover how methods like radar, magnetics, and resistivity are helping archaeologists "see" beneath the surface without disturbing sensitive sites, preserving cultural heritage along the way.

> Challenges of Urban Archaeology: Hear about the unique struggles of working in cities, where modern infrastructure like pipes and cables can interfere with data, and discover how researchers overcome these obstacles.

> The Future of Non-Invasive Tech: Geophysical archaeology is evolving fast with emerging tools like drones and AI. Find out how these innovations lead to more precise data and help archaeologists uncover even the faintest traces of history.

> Real-World Impact on Communities: From preserving early Christian structures to documenting West Africa's historic sites, learn how geophysics helps connect people and students with their past while respecting cultural sensitivities.

> Becoming a Geophysical Archaeologist: Inspired by this field? Explore the unique blend of skills that bridge archaeology and geophysics, and hear what it takes to work in this exciting, emerging area.

Listen to this episode to learn how geophysical tools push archaeology forward, giving us new ways to study and preserve our history.

Dr. Richard Krahenbuhl is a research assistant professor in the Geophysics Department at the Colorado School of Mines.

Dr. Michael Wilt is an affiliate with the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

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.

LINKS

* Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-241-how-geophysics-is-revolutionizing-archaeological-exploration for the complete show notes and links to read this special section.

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 [email protected].