Geophysics and Atmospheric Sciences

About us

The Geophysics and Atmospheric Sciences Research Group is a peer group under the auspices of the Department of Physics, USK, which specifically accommodates students interested in the fields of Geophysics and Atmospheric Sciences. This research group not only acts as a forum for scientific discussion but also as a means of developing its members’ academic and professional potential in understanding and applying the concepts of geophysics and atmospheric science in an applicable manner.

Geophysics is a branch of physics that studies the structure and dynamics of the Earth from near-surface to global with physical approaches, such as seismic waves, Earth’s magnetic field, gravity, and subsurface electrical methods. Amid the increasing need for natural resource exploration and disaster mitigation experts, this research group is very important as a place to learn and practice for future geophysicists.

Vision and Mission

The vision of the Geophysics and Atmospheric Science Peer Group is to become a leading academic community in Geophysics oriented towards scientific development, practical skills, and real contributions to society.

The missions of this peer group include:

1. Organising regular scientific studies and discussions on the latest Geophysical and Atmospheric Science issues and topics.
2. Developing members’ technical skills through modelling-inversion training and introduction to the latest geophysical software.
3. Encourage independent and collaborative research in the field of applied geophysics.
4. Increase participation in seminars, scientific competitions, and cooperation with outside agencies, such as BMKG, Geological Agency, and energy and Disaster companies.

Research Focus

This research group explores various main themes involving observational data, modelling, and numerical simulations, including:

🌍 Exploration Geophysics

• Study of subsurface structures using seismic waves and resistivity
•  Exploration of energy resources such as oil, gas, and geothermal
• Application of geoelectric, reflection seismic, and InSAR methods

🌊 Geophysical Disaster

• Earthquake and tsunami data analysis
• Mathematical and computational modelling of local and regional tsunami distribution
• Paleotsunami studies to reveal the history of past disasters

🌦️ Atmospheric Science & Hydrometeorology

• Study of local climate change based on observational data and satellite imagery
• Utilisation of remote sensing technology for disaster mitigation, such as floods and strong winds
• Geographic information system (GIS) for disaster vulnerability mapping

🧮 Computational Geophysics

• Simulation of seismic wave propagation and subsurface fluids
• Numerical modelling of natural disasters using PDEs (e.g. wave and heat)
• Utilisation of spatial and temporal data in AI-based predictive modelling

Routine Activities

The Geophysics and Atmospheric Science Peer Group, in collaboration with USK’s internal divisions, such as scientific studies, research, publications, and external relations with both government agencies and industry, is managed as a synergistic platform so that each member is encouraged and allowed to be actively involved in activities according to their respective interests and expertise.

Routine activities carried out include:

• Weekly Discussions: Discussion topics include the latest topics in research and cooperation, as well as their discussion on implementing the Final Project, Thesis, or Dissertation.
• Workshop and Software Training: Given by lecturers and alums who have worked in related fields.
• Field Trip and Field Practicum: Geoelectric survey, seismic measurement, seismology, electromagnetic, georadar, gravity, magnetic and other geophysical field surveys.
• Lecturer and Independent Research Projects: In the form of national and international scale lecturer research or other independent research that can be carried out in collaboration with lecturers, as well as thesis or thesis topic material.
• Alumni Sharing: To provide insight into careers and the world of work in geophysics and atmospheric science.

Contribution

The Geophysics and Atmospheric Science research group members often participate in external activities such as scientific competitions and internships at national research institutions. Some members have also successfully published their research in journals or participated in national and international scientific conferences.

This research group is active in the academic field and community service, such as conducting village surveys, facilitating, and providing disaster education in communities and schools.

Position and Important Role of the Research Group

The Geophysics and Atmospheric Science Research Group, Department of Physics, is a very important forum for students who want to explore geophysical science in a deeper and more directed manner. Through various structured and practically oriented activities, members gain theoretical understanding and real experience relevant to the world of work. With a strong collaborative and scientific spirit, this research group is expected to continue to grow into a community that can make significant contributions, both in the academic realm and in solving societal geophysical problems.

Teaching and Research Team

The group is led and mentored by experienced academics and researchers, graduates of various renowned domestic and international institutions:

1. Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Muksin Umar, M.Phil
2. Prof. Nazli Ismail, Ph.D
3. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Syukri, MT
4. Dr. Nasrullah Zaini, M.Sc
5. Dr. Muhammad Isa, M.Si
6. Dr. Didik Sugiyanto, MT
7. Dr. Faisal, M.Sc
8. Dr. Saumi Syahreza, M.Si
9. Dr. Fadhli, M.Si
10. Irwandi, Ph.D