Basin analysis is a truly integrated and applied
form of geoscience that combines elements of the lithosphere, atmosphere,
cryosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. Understanding how to decode the records
of ancient sedimentary basins has been critical to unraveling the history of
life on earth, the structural development of the planet itself, and the
distribution of natural resources critical to the health and wealth of modern
society. Historically, much of this field was developed for and by the
petroleum industry where many of the techniques we will discuss are applied in
the search for oil and gas reservoirs. Modern and evolving applications in this
field are being leveraged in the energy transition, especially through
characterization of potential sites for large-scale carbon capture and storage
(CCS). Other applications involve understanding biodiversity in both oceanic
and terrestrial ecosystems, prediction and mapping of mineral resources needed
for next generation batteries and understanding distribution and properties of
fresh groundwater aquifers. Whether you are interested in Earth’s dynamic and
interconnected systems from an academic or practical standing this course will
offer tools and techniques to enrich your experience as a well-rounded
professional geoscientist.
- Kursleiter*in: Ph.D. Benjamin Rendall