Module manager: Sjoerd de Ridder
Email: s.deridder@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
SOEE5155M; SOEE5166M
This module is not approved as an Elective
This module equips students with an understanding of seismology principles in the context of seismic reflection surveying. This is a crucial tool in exploring and managing the subsurface for a variety of applications. These could include resource characterisation but also monitoring operations during (e.g.) geothermal development, carbon sequestration and offshore turbine construction. Commencing with the fundamental controls on seismic propagation, the module provides the theoretical and practical basis for how seismic reflection data are acquired and processed. This provides the necessary context for later Exploration Geophysics modules that derive interpretations from seismic reflection datasets.
The module aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles in seismology as applied to the acquisition and processing of seismic reflection surveys. The module builds from a description of the physical principles of seismic propagation, exploring concepts such as reflectivity, resolution, amplitude loss and anisotropy. The acquisition component explores the surveying techniques that are employed in both marine and terrestrial environments, and how seismic survey geometries are optimised. The processing component explains how seismic reflection images are developed from raw field records, introducing techniques applied to boost signal level, improve seismic resolution and optimise the image fidelity of seismic sections. Students will apply their knowledge by processing seismic data using industry-standard software, placing theoretical learning within practical application.
By integrating both theoretical understanding and hands-on practice, the course ensures that students gain the ability to make informed decisions on survey design and parameter selection in real-world scenarios. Furthermore, familiarity with industry-standard software and techniques prepares students for the professional challenges they will face, reinforcing their ability to apply seismic methods in exploration, environmental studies, and geotechnical investigations. The course not only enhances technical competence but also fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills in geophysical data interpretation.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Predict the feasibility of imaging a seismic reflection target by understanding the fundamental controls on seismic propagation;
2. Describe acquisition strategies and their principles for seismic surveys in both marine and land environments;
3. Understand the principles, theory, and practice of processing seismic reflection data;
4. Design data processing workflows using examples of industry-standard seismic processing tools;
5. Report the application and outcomes of seismic data processing to credible industry styles and standards.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
1. Communication and presentation: the ability to convey the process and outcome of seismic data analysis (work ready)
2. Making and optimising decisions for seismic data analysis and assessing outcomes (work ready)
3. Familiarising yourself with sophisticated software in a succinct time-frame (digital)
4. Self-confidence, initiative and perseverance (enterprise)
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Practicals | 4 | 2 | 8 |
| Lecture | 2 | 2 | 4 |
| Lecture | 4 | 2 | 8 |
| Lecture | 6 | 2 | 12 |
| Practical | 2 | 4 | 8 |
| Private study hours | 110 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 40 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150 | ||
General formative feedback will be given during practical hours. Feedback on the formative practical for the fundamentals component will be delivered in a class-wide workshop session, with peer-review of responses encouraged.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Coursework | 50 |
| Coursework | Online Time-Limited Assessment | 50 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 02/05/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team