[WGF-LM] Exploration and Applied Geophysics (MSc) (31)
Dates for interviews are the following ones:
1) 14 June 10:00 a.m. (Italian time);
2) 28 June 10:00 a.m. (Italian time);
3) 12 July 10:00 a.m. (Italian time);
4) 30 August 10:00 a.m. (Italian time);
5) 14 September 10:00 a.m. (Italian time);
During the interview, teachers of the MSc will provide detailed information about the Msc programme, about why studying Geophysics at the University of Pisa and will be available for questions. Book your interview by sending an email to gea@dst.unipi.it and attaching a CV and the transcript of records of the Bachelor degree. Positively evaluated applications in the first round will be considered for a scholarship granted by the University of Pisa (see below).
Eni and Eni Corporate University offer to students enrolled in the Msc in Exploration and Applied Geophysics up to 3 stages
Duration and Aim of the stages - The stages are 3-month long and are aimed at preparing the MSc thesis.
The thesis tutors (an internal tutor from Unipi and an external tutor from Eni) define the thesis topic.
Who can apply? - Students who satisfy the following requirements can be selected:
- To be regularly enrolled at the second year of the MSc in Exploration and Applied Geophysics of the University of Pisa.
- Not to be over 26 years old on the date of December 31, 2022
- To have a weighted average of marks equal or higher than 27/30
- To have passed at least three of the following exams: Applied Geophysics; Exploration Seismology and Introduction to Well-Logs; Laboratory of Geophysical Data Processing; Laboratory of Seismic Acquisition and Processing; Signal Processing for Physics.
The application must include:
- Curriculum vitae;
- Certificate (art. 46 and 47 of D.p.r. 28.12.2000 n. 445) reporting the list of passed exams (with marks and ECTS) provided by the University
- Certificate (art. 46 and 47 of D.p.r. 28.12.2000 n. 445) of enrollment to the second year of the MSc provided by the University
- Self-certification of degree of knowledge of written and oral English and any supporting documentation
Deadline for application - This documentation must be sent strictly within January 26, 2023 to the following email account: application@eni.com and, in cc, to gea@dst.unipi.it
In the email subject must be reported the wording “Candidatura stage – Progetto Geologia 2023”.
After a positive evaluation of requisites, candidates will be examined via oral and practical tests (distance mode) that will take place from the 30th of January to the 1st of February 2023.
Job Opportunities for MSc in Exploration and Applied Geophysics Graduates
Our graduates are equipped with advanced knowledge and practical skills in geophysics, making them highly requested by the job market. Since the fundation of our MSc degree our former students have consistently secured rewarding positions in various industries and in academia worlwide. Currently more than 90% of our graduates is stably employed both in the industry or academia (see figure at the bottom of the page). Our comprehensive MSc program prepares you for a diverse range of exciting career paths including:
1. Georesources exploration:
As geophysicists specialized in energy exploration, our graduates will play a crucial role in the identification and assessment of subsurface georesources (including mineral exploration) providing support to conventional and renewable energy projects. exploration geophysicists will be responsible for the acquisition, processing and interpretation of geophysical data, conducting geophysical surveys, and contributing to the overall understanding of subsurface structures. This role is essential for optimizing the exploration and production processes within the energy sector and for the responsible and sustainable extraction of georesources. About 40% of graduates currently works in different energy and mining industries and geophysical service companies around the world.
2. Environmental monitoring:
As Environmental Geophysicists, our graduates will apply a wide range of geophysical techniques to assess and monitor environmental conditions of the soil and groundwater. They will play a key role in understanding subsurface characteristics, identifying potential environmental risks, and contributing to remediation efforts. This role is crucial for ensuring the sustainable management of natural resources and mitigating the impact of human activities on the environment. about 20% of our graduates work in environmental consulting companies or geovernmental agencies.
3. Geophysical engineering:
As applied geophysicists, our graduates will use geophysical techniques to solve engineering challenges across various sectors. Your role will involve using advanced geophysical methods to investigate subsurface conditions (e.g. to evaluate soil stability and foundation conditions), assess structural integrity, and support the design and construction of infrastructure projects. Their work will also focus on the monitoring of landslides and soil subsidence. This position is essential for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of civil engineering projects. About 15% of our graduates work in the engineering sector.
5. Research and Development:
About 25% of our graduates continue the career path pursuing a PhD in Geophysics contributing to the development of new geophysical technologies and methodologies. As researchers, our graduates will be at the forefront of research in geophysics to better understand the physics of earthquakes and volcanic processes. Their work will involve analyzing geophysical data, developing new methods for data analysis, conducting research, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to advance our understanding of Earth's dynamic processes (such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions). Many former students of our master currently work in important academic institutions, research centres and governative organizations performing seismic and volcanic surveillance.
Join us in shaping the future of geophysics and making a meaningful impact on industries and the environment. Explore the possibilities, and embark on a fulfilling journey with the skills and knowledge gained from our Exploration and Applied Geophysics program.
Alumni Success Stories
Welcome to the Alumni Page for the Master of Science (MSc) in Exploration and Applied Geophysics at the University of Pisa. Our program has a rich history of producing skilled geophysicists who have made significant contributions to the field. Here, we celebrate the achievements and success stories of our esteemed alumni.
Alumni Profiles
Elena Bernardini, Geophysicist and GEMS Program Participant at ENI, Class of 2023
Elena is currently participating in ENI's GEMS program, Master Geoscience for Energy, where she is deepening her geophysical expertise after spending a year at Geoinvest srl, a company specializing in geology and geophysics, applying her knowledge to seismic investigations.
“My journey in Exploration and Applied Geophysics at the Università di Pisa provided a rigorous academic foundation that was further enriched by hands-on experiences, especially during my thesis work with ENI. At the University of Pisa, I found an ideal learning environment, the professors demonstrated exceptional expertise and a genuine passion for sharing knowledge, always willing to offer guidance and support.
This master's program enabled me to secure an internship at ENI, where I dedicated several months to my thesis project titled, "The Effect of CO₂ on Log Response: How Can We Deal with It for a Sound Formation Evaluation? State of the Art." This experience allowed me to explore the complexities of CO₂ storage in geological formations which are essential for carbon capture and storage. In today’s world, where energy transition and climate change are critical challenges, this work felt especially meaningful, and I am grateful to the MSc in Exploration and Applied Geophysics for providing me with the opportunity to contribute to a relevant field.
The combination of a solid academic foundation, a hands-on internship, and now advanced training in ENI's GEMS program has been instrumental in shaping my career. For any student considering this path, I encourage you to fully engage in every learning opportunity and seize internships, as they are essential in transitioning smoothly from academia to the geophysical industry.”
— Elena Bernardini
Mrs. Greta Tresoldi, Product and Marketing Manager at LSI LASTEM, Class of 2016
Mrs. Chiara Cocorullo, Co-fouder and geophysicist at SEISMIX, Class of 2011
Chiara is a geophysicist specialized in microseismic monitoring and management of seismic networks. After a career path in research and several geophysical companies, she cofounded SEISMIX, an innovative startup and UniPi spin-off offering microseismic monitoring services for the industries working in the geoenergy sector.
"The MSc program at the University of Pisa provided me with a comprehensive skill set that has been invaluable in my career. The strong foundation in physics and geology coupled with specialized geophysical knowledge and advanced computational skills, opened doors to many opportunities in the industry and were essential in allowing me to became a co-founder of the startup SEISMIX."
— Chiara Cocorullo
Dr. Ettore Biondi, Research Seismologist at Caltech, US, Class 2012
Ettore is currently a research seismologist at Caltech in California, USA. Ettore earned a PhD in Geophysics at Stanford University, where he developed new methodologies for elastic and acoustic full-waveform inversion. At Caltech, he started to focus on photonic seismology topics, specifically in the development of new methodologies for real-time analysis and subsurface monitoring and imaging of Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) data.
"During my MSc studies at the University of Pisa, I fell in love with seismic imaging and computer simulation of natural phenomena. The broad and solid background in signal processing and data inversion I gained during that time has been the basis upon which I built any discoveries I made so far. I believe I will continue to use that knowledge throughout my professional career."
— Ettore Biondi
Mrs. Rosalena Filograsso, Geophysicist at Ikon, Class 2017
Rosalena is currently working for Ikon Science where she leverages her rock physics and imaging experience to provide clients with efficient and accurate solutions for quantitativeiInterpretation. During her time in UniPi, she was chosen for an internship at ENI specialising in rock physics. In 2018, before to start her career at Ikon, she moved on to CGG’s UK office as imaging geophysicist, where she worked for 4 years specialising in velocity model building.
“The great study experience is Pisa provided me with all the technical tools and soft skills needed to start a career in Geophysics - overall, the course provided an occasion for personal and professional growth. The Msc strengthened my knowledge in general subjects (physics, signal analysis, coding) and trained me in advanced methods applied to geophysics, working in contact with academic and industrial top researchers. The open and international environment of the MSc allowed for getting into contact with lots of people and professionals through networking, also thanks to the many company days organised by the Course. I particularly found useful the meetings with recruiters held regularly – in fact, it is during one of these company days that I secured the assessment day for CGG after which I got hired! All the professors are highly competent and deeply care about the growth of the students and have always been happy to help me deepen my knowledge in any topic of interest. For my current activity In Ikon Science I take responsibility for technical and operational queries, advise clients on the workflow to adopt and showcase the software capabilities to clients and potential clients in technical sales activities. “
— Rosalena Folograsso
Mr. Francesco Talini, Reservoir Geologist at SNAM, Class 2022
Francesco is a Reservoir Geologist at Snam, an energy company specialized in the storage and distribution of nautural gas.
He works within the microseismic monitoring team of SNAM, where analyzed microseismc data, collaborating daily with the engineering team and geological team.
"The MSc program in Exploration and Applied Geophysics equipped me with fundamental skills that are crucial to my career. Throughout the different courses of the master I looked deeper into geophysical trand topics and I developed new passions like programming which facilitated my entry into the job market. I encourage current and future students to engage in networking, which is the true strength of this master program, allowing to create connections across countries and develop valuable opportunities."
— Francesco Talini
Stay Connected
We encourage our alumni to stay connected and share their experiences. If you would like to be featured on this page or share your success story, please contact us. We are proud of the accomplishments of our graduates and look forward to celebrating many more achievements in the future.
Double Degree Programme: The University of Pisa and the Montan University of Leoben (Austria) have established the “International Master of Applied and Exploration Geophysics” Double Degree (DD) program. Students enrolled in the MSc in Exploration and Applied Geophysics at the University of Pisa are eligible to apply to this program and obtain the “International Master of Applied and Exploration Geophysics”. Interested students will be selected by a specific committee on the basis of their academic performance and, if admitted, they will spend at least one semester at the Montan University of Leoben (Austria), where they will acquire at least 24 ECTS (requirement to obtain the double degree). At the end of their career DD students will be awarded a double diploma in Applied and Exploration Geophysics issued by the two partner Universities, in compliance with the different national rules and agreements signed between the partner institutions. More info can be found in the links below:
Agreement between the University of Pisa and the Montan University of Leoben
Curriculum in Applied and Exploration Geophysics activated at the Montan University
Flyer briefly illustrating the Double Degree initiative
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Here a list of available theses proposed by our MSc. program. It is important to note that this is not an exaustive list and, for topics not listed here, students are encouraged to contact the tutors of the MSc program in Exploration and Applied Geophysics (the list of tutors can be found here) to ask if they have some thesis topic availalble. Finally, it is extremely important to remind that students willing to ask a thesis to an external tutor, need to contact in advance an internal tutor to agree the thesis topic. Please, do not contact external tutors before an agreement with an internal one.
List of Available Theses:
Topic: Seismic inversion
Supervisor: M. Aleardi
Description: Implementing an inversion algorithm for seismic-petrophysical inversion with non-parametric prior models and 3D geostatistical constraints
Topic: Seismic inversion
Supervisor: M. Aleardi
Description: Exploiting machine learning techniques to reduce model and data spaces in a probabilistic full-waveform inversion of seismic data
Topic: Global Seismology
Supervisor: G. Carelli and F. Grigoli
Description: Development of array seismology techniques for the backtracking of the ruptures caused by large (M>7) earthquakes and recorded by laser gyroscopes
Topic: Photonic Seismology
Supervisors: F. Grigoli
Description: Development of methods for the analysis of Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) data for seismic monitoring of CO2 storage and Geothermal Energy production operations
Topic: Earthquake Seismology
Supervisors: F. Grigoli
Description: Development of Machine Learning methods for the analysis of natural and induced seismicity
Topic: Einstein Telescope
Supervisors: F. Grigoli and F. Fidecaro
Description: Geophysical characterization of the Einstein Telescope candidate site in Sardinia to through Ambient Noise Tomography
Topic: Seismic data Processing
Supervisor: A. Tognarelli
Description: Data Processing of 2D/3D Seismic Reflection Data
Topic: Acoustic and Elastic Full Wave Inversion on real and synthetic data
Supervisors: E. Stucchi and M. Aleardi
Description: Methodologies for estimating an accurate velocity field for both
compressional and shear waves from seismic data acquired for exploration purposes
Topic: Development of Algorithms for Seismic Data Processing
Supervisor: E. Stucchi
Description: Seismic data are affected by many different kinds of noise. The
aim of a thesis on this topic is to focus on a particular kind of noise and writing
and testing an algorithm to attenuate it on synthetic and real data.
Topic: Full Waveform Inversion
Supervisor: E. Stucchi
Description: Use of machine learning techniques for interpolation of the error function in FWI to reduce the
computational cost of global optimization inversion.
Topic: Reflection Seismic Processing
Supervisor: E. Stucchi, N Bienati
Description: Nonlinear beamforming for enhancement of 3D prestack land seismic data
Topic: Rotational Seismology
Supervisor: G. Carelli
Description: Highlight seismic signals of local origin from the analysis of the ring laser gyroscope GINGERINO data
Topic: Rotational Seismology
Supervisor: G. Carelli
Description: AI and advanced analysis schemes for applications to geodesy, seismology, etc. of the GINGER experiment
Topic: Rotational Seismology
Supervisor: G. Carelli
Description: Comparison between ring laser gyroscopes, fiber optic gyroscopes, gravimeters and GNSS antennas, for geophysical studies
Eni and Eni Corporate University offer to students enrolled in the MSc in Exploration and Applied Geophysics (and similar) up to 6 stages to be held at the headquarter of San Donato Milanese (Milan). Please find the official document at this link. Here below the principal information.
Duration and Aim of the stages - The stages are 3-month long and aim at making the MSc thesis. The thesis tutor (belonging to the teachers of the MSc course) must be involved in the choice of the thesis topic.
Who can apply? - Students who have the following requisites can be selected:
- To be regularly enrolled at the second year of the MSc in Exploration and Applied Geophysics (University of Pisa)
- Not to be over 26 years old on the date of December 31, 2019
- To have a weighted average of marks equal or higher than 27/30
- To be good at written and oral English
- To have passed at least three of the following exams: Applied Geophysics; Exploration Seismology and geophysical well-logs; Laboratory of digital data processing; Laboratory of seismic data processing and field campaign; Signal processing for Physics
The application must include:
- Curriculum vitae;
- Certificate of exams (with marks and University credits) provided by the University
- Certificate of enrollment to the second year of the MSc provided by the University
- Self-certification of degree of knowledge of written and oral English and any supporting documentation
Deadline for application - This documentation must be sent strictly within December 04, 2019 to the following email account:
application@
In the email reference (oggetto) must be reported the wording “Candidatura stage – Progetto Geologia 2020”.
After a positive evaluation of requisites, candidates will be examinated via oral and proctical tests at the headquarter of San Donato Milanese within the first half of Decemeber 2019.
The selected candidates will be supported by a grant of 800euro/month covering the entire stage duration.
Field Excursion in Oman - Ground Penetrating Radar and Geomorphological investigations in coastal geoarchaeological contexts (Region of Dhofar, Southern Oman)
The study area is the coastal plain of Salallah (Sothern Oman)
Deadline for presenting candidatures is November 06, 2019
Information and how to apply here
Contacts: adrianoribolini@unipi.it
The students’ participation is free of charge (UNIPI covers flights, overnights, meals)
Students’ activities in the field will consist in:
i) GPR surveys (planning, data capture, data quality evaluation and basic processing) in archeological and coastal settings,
ii) Performing some shallow boreholes to calibrate GPR data and to retrieve stratigraphical features crucial for reconstructing the recent landscape evolution
iii) Learning procedures to analyses markers of sea level oscillation both on rocky and sediment coasts,
The excursion is open to 14 students from more than one MScs (Geology, Geophysics, Environmental Sciences, Archaeology), and there is a selection.
Concerning students of the Msc in Exploration and Applied Geophysics, those enrolled to the second year will be preferred because they have been already exposed to the geophysical topics of the activity.
A “fruitful” participation to this activity will be awarded whit 1 CTS (students in Exploration and Applied Geophysics).
Field Excursion in Oman - Ground Penetrating Radar and Geomorphological investigations in coastal geoarchaeological contexts (region of Dhofar, Southern Oman)
The study area is the coastal plain of Salallah (Sothern Oman)
Deadline for presenting candidatures is November 06, 2019
Contact: Adriano Ribolini (adriano.ribolini@unipi.it)
The students’ participation is free of charge (UNIPI covers flights, overnights, meals)
Information and how to applicate in the docuement available here
Students’ activities in the field will consist in:
i) GPR surveys (planning, data capture, data quality evaluation and basic processing) in archeological and coastal settings,
ii) Performing some shallow boreholes to calibrate GPR data and to retrieve stratigraphical features crucial for reconstructing the recent landscape evolution
iii) Learning procedures to analyses markers of sea level oscillation both on rocky and sediment coasts
The excursion is open to 14 students from more than one MScs (Geology, Geophysics, Environmental Sciences, Archaeology), and there is a selection.
Concerning students of the Msc in Exploration and Applied Geophysics, those enrolled to the second year will be preferred because they have been already exposed to the geophysical topics of the activity.
A “fruitful” participation to this activity will be awarded whit 1 CTS (students in Exploration and Applied Geophysics).
More...
Field Excursion in Oman - Ground Penetrating Radar and Geomorphological investigations in coastal geoarchaeological contexts (region of Dhofar, Southern Oman)
The study area is the coastal plain of Salallah (Sothern Oman)
Deadline for presenting candidatures is November 06, 2019
Contact: Adriano Ribolini (adriano.ribolini@unipi.it)
The students’ participation is free of charge (UNIPI covers flights, overnights, meals)
Information and how to applicate in the docuement available here
Students’ activities in the field will consist in:
i) GPR surveys (planning, data capture, data quality evaluation and basic processing) in archeological and coastal settings,
ii) Performing some shallow boreholes to calibrate GPR data and to retrieve stratigraphical features crucial for reconstructing the recent landscape evolution
iii) Learning procedures to analyses markers of sea level oscillation both on rocky and sediment coasts
The excursion is open to 14 students from more than one MScs (Geology, Geophysics, Environmental Sciences, Archaeology), and there is a selection.
Concerning students of the Msc in Exploration and Applied Geophysics, those enrolled to the second year will be preferred because they have been already exposed to the geophysical topics of the activity.
A “fruitful” participation to this activity will be awarded whit 1 CTS (students in Exploration and Applied Geophysics).
Double Degree Programme
The University of Pisa and the Montan University of Leoben (MUL) (Austria) have established a Double Degree Programme “International Master of Applied and Exploration Geophysics” Interested students will be selected by a specific committee on the basis of their academic performance to spend at least one term at the partner University in order to acquire at least 24 ECTS. Students will be awarded a double diploma in Applied and Exploration Geophysics issued by the two partner Universities, in compliance with the different national rules and agreements signed between the partner institutions. A B2 English qualification (or equivalent) is a prerequisite for admission. Students enrolled in the Master of Science Programme in Exploration and Applied Geophysics at the University of Pisa may also apply for admission to the “International Master of Applied and Exploration Geophysics”.
Agreement between the University of Pisa and the Montan University of Leoben (with regulation)
Curriculum in Applied and Exploration Geophysics activated at the Montan University (in German)
Flyer briefly illustrating the Double Degree initiative
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Regulation Academic Year 2017-2018 (in Italian)
Regulation Academic Year 2018-19 (in Italian)
Cyclic rexamination of MSc (2018) (in Italian)
Annual Monitoring sheet 2018 (in Italian)
Meetings of the Commission of the Master’s Degree Course:
Minute of 08.02.2019 meeting (in Italian)
Minute of 21.09.2018 meeting (in Italian)
Minute of 14.03.2018 meeting (in Italian)
Minute of 20.02.2018 meeting (in Italian)
Minute of 30.11.2017 meeting (in Italian)
Our Master of Science course in Exploration and applied Geophysics benefits from the direct support of several large international companies. ENI actively contributes and includes our M.Sc. within those sponsored by Eni Corporate University (ECU). ENI also activates short courses on specific geophysical topics and offers our students the opportunity to do internships and scholarships in its laboratories.
Halliburton/Landmark provides us with its software products for processing and interpreting geophysical data so that the students can practice on industrial standard software tools. Many other companies regularly visit us to give seminars and to talk with our students (see Notice Board).
The interest in sponsoring this Degree course on the part of these companies outside the academic world derives from their consolidated experiences of scientific collaboration with the tutors involved in the Master’s Degree.
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| Eni SpA (sponsor Master course) |
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| ENEL Green Power | Halliburton - Landmark | Seismic Micro - Technology (SMT) |
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| CCGVeritas | I.D.S. Corporation |
Bandi e Avvisi
- Avviso - Bando orientamento e tutorato progetto PLS 2025
- Bando orientamento e tutorato progetto PLS - 2025
- Bando per borsa di ricerca semestrale dal titolo “Definizione del quadro tettonico dei depositi affioranti nel Foglio Geologico 274 per il perfezionamento della carta geologica e la stesura delle note illustrative sul tema specifico”