Geophysics Interpretation Fundamentals
| 22 – 26 June 2026, Abu Dhabi | 14 – 18 Sep. 2026, Dubai |
COURSE OVERVIEW:
Geophysics Interpretation Fundamentals provides the foundational knowledge required to extract meaningful geological information from geophysical data, primarily seismic reflection surveys. This course introduces the core concepts of seismic wave propagation and how Earth's subsurface features are expressed in geophysical measurements. Participants will learn how to identify structural traps, stratigraphic sequences, and fluid indicators by analyzing the geometry and amplitude of seismic reflectors. The scope is designed to bridge the gap between raw data and a coherent geological map.
The coverage of this course includes the basic mechanics of seismic interpretation, from horizon and fault picking to the generation of time and depth maps. Attendees will learn the fundamental "physics" of a seismic trace, including the concepts of frequency, bandwidth, and resolution. The curriculum also details the interpretation of seismic attributes and their use in identifying reservoir properties and discontinuities. By understanding the limitations of seismic data, such as tuning effects and imaging artifacts, interpreters can avoid common pitfalls and provide more accurate subsurface assessments.
Furthermore, the course addresses the role of geophysics in the broader exploration and development workflow. It emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary integration, showing how seismic data is calibrated with well logs and geological concepts. Participants will explore the diverse applications of geophysics, including its use in identifying geohazards and monitoring reservoir changes over time. By the end of the course, participants will have a solid grasp of the techniques and logic used to turn geophysical signals into actionable exploration and development insights.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:
- Define the basic principles of seismic reflection and acquisition.
- Understand the concept of the seismic wavelet and resolution.
- Distinguish between time-domain and depth-domain data.
- Identify and pick major seismic horizons and unconformities.
- Recognize and map different styles of faulting on seismic data.
- Perform basic seismic-to-well ties for geological calibration.
- Interpret seismic facies and depositional environments.
- Generate time-structure and isochron (thickness) maps.
- Utilize seismic attributes like coherence and amplitude for mapping.
- Identify Direct Hydrocarbon Indicators (DHI) such as bright spots.
- Understand the impact of seismic noise and artifacts on interpretation.
- Apply basic depth conversion methods to time maps.
- Recognize the importance of phase and polarity in seismic data.
- Communicate geophysical findings effectively to geological teams.
TARGET AUDIENCE:
Junior Geoscientists, Engineers, and Technical Staff who need a clear and practical introduction to seismic data interpretation.
TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:
A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.
The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.
COURSE CERTIFICATE:
National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.

