News & Events

Where Geology Meets Technology

TCU’s GeoNXT Seminar Series explores how to unlock subsurface potential with artificial intelligence and machine learning.

by Jennifer Casseday

On an unseasonably warm February evening in Fort Worth, the TCU campus buzzed with excitement as students, professors, and curious lecture goers gathered in Sid Richardson Hall to hear Dr. Zoltan Sylvester, a research professor from the University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Sylvester captivated the audience with insights into how artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are transforming the fields of sedimentology and geomorphology.

Renowned as a leading expert in sedimentology, stratigraphy, and geological modeling, Dr. Sylvester is co-principal investigator of the Quantitative Clastics Laboratory at UT Austin. He combines cutting-edge research with innovative techniques that involve harnessing vast datasets, mathematical models, and advanced computer simulations. A key focus of Dr. Sylvester’s research is unraveling the dynamic history of river meandering—deciphering how rivers shift and evolve.

His lecture was part of the GeoNXT Seminar Series hosted by TCU Geological Sciences designed to foster community engagement and collaboration among faculty, students, alumni, industry professionals, government representatives, and the general public. This dynamic series invites leading experts from academia and industry to explore pressing global challenges and showcase groundbreaking geoscience research and innovations designed to tackle them. To kick off the Spring 2025 series GeoNXT seminars, Dr. Suihong Song from Stanford University visited campus in January to deliver his findings on generative AI technologies on subsurface reservoir characterization and modeling.

AI/ML technologies are transforming science, tearing through massive data, predicting outcomes at breathtaking speeds, and cracking problems once thought unsolvable. These game-changing technologies are driving breakthroughs across scientific fields, and when it comes to geology, they’re unstoppable. AI/ML dive headfirst into complex geological data, uncovering deeper insights like never before.

Dr. Omar Harvey, TCU Geological Sciences professor, says, “AI and ML are revolutionizing how we leverage geology to tackle the most pressing resource and sustainability challenges—here in Fort Worth, and across the globe. From optimizing energy systems to securing water and food supplies in a changing climate, AI/ML offer unprecedented opportunities. However, as scientists, we must continue to demystify AI/ML while ensuring the technology is applied responsibly, with transparency, accuracy, and scientific rigor at the forefront.” 

Dr. Harvey highlights a powerful advantage of clarifying AI/ML in science through these monthly seminars. "Events like this build crucial connections—linking those who trust science with those who may question emerging technologies. That’s the heart of the GeoNXT speaking series. It’s about making science accessible, not intimidating, while also addressing advancements in the field," says Dr. Harvey.

Whether you’re a current student, tech enthusiast, geoscience pro, or simply curious about the future of our planet, all are welcome to attend TCU’s GeoNXT Seminar Series either in person or online.

Upcoming GeoNXT Seminar speakers:

• Deborah Sacrey, AAPG President, CEO Auburn Energy
  Unlocking the Secrets of Sub-surface with Machine Learning
  March 3, 2025

• Mayank Tyagi, Louisiana State University
  An AI Approach to Single Wellbore Geothermal Energy Conversion Systems
  April 7, 2025