Interview: "Natural seepages can pose risks to hydrocarbon exploration and production"

Can you describe yourself briefly, what you think it's important to know, what is the focus also of your research and why is it important?

My name is Akash Trivedi, and I am currently researching natural seepages in the Tampen area, North Sea. This work is part of a project that examines the effects of past glacial activity on erosion, sedimentation and uplift in the Tampen area and understanding subsurface fluid leakage systems and seafloor gas seepage. I analyze seismic data to interpret subsurface architecture below the seepage site and analyze the structural and stratigraphic controls on gas seepage near wells. This research is crucial for evaluating the stability and safety of these wells, as natural seepages can pose risks to hydrocarbon exploration and production. By studying fluid anomalies and their geotechnical aspects, my work contributes to understanding how geological processes impact industrial applications, ensuring responsible resource extraction and minimizing environmental impact. Previously, during my PhD, I focused on fluid migration and gas hydrates in polar regions, which laid the foundation for my current research interests.

Photo credit: Akash Trivedi

How are you doing your research? Are you a modeler or are you an observationalist?

Currently, I am focused on interpreting subsurface data to understand sedimentary depositional architecture. This involves analyzing depositional patterns created by glaciers and ocean currents. While I previously used numerical models during my PhD, my current work is more observational, utilizing seismic and well data to study subsurface structures. In the future, I plan to incorporate modeling to further explore hydrate systems beneath ice sheets.

Have you done some fieldwork during your PhD or cruises?

During my PhD, I did not engage in fieldwork as my research was computational. However, I participated in a cruise last November during my postdoc. It was an eye-opening experience, highlighting the efforts required to collect data in challenging terrains like the Arctic. I look forward to going back!

What technologies or methodologies are you most excited about in your field?

I am particularly excited about technologies that enhance subsurface imaging, such as High-resolution SYSIF technology, which provides detailed images of shallow subsurface areas. Additionally, sedimentary basin filling softwares that aids in understanding geological processes and formations.

Can you describe a particularly memorable moment or breakthrough in your research?

A significant breakthrough during my PhD was in numerical modeling of hydrate dissociation-induced methane release, which closely matched observed fluxes in the Svalbard region. This involved integrating historical bottom water temperature data and relative sea level curves to simulate hydrate behavior. Most importantly, the models demonstrated that regardless of the specific relative sea level and temperature pathways a system follows, it is ultimately most influenced by the most recent environmental changes. Another memorable achievement was mapping erosional surfaces in the Svalbard, revealing cycles of shelf-edge glaciation over the past 120,000 years. These findings were pivotal in understanding recent glacial history.

What big question would you like to answer in the future?

I am keen to explore the factors that reshape landscapes and contribute to Earth's dynamic processes. Understanding these elements is crucial for deciphering how natural systems evolve and interact over time.

If you could change something in science, can you name one thing you want to change in science in general?

I would like to bridge the gap between industrial and long-term scientific research. Often, quick-gain industrial applications overshadow studies with societal impacts, like climate change research. Elevating both types of science to the same level of importance could foster a more holistic understanding and appreciation of scientific endeavors.

What do you miss from India?

I miss the vibrant street food and traditional cuisine from India, as well as the presence of family. While I enjoy Tromso's weather, the darkness during winter was challenging, though manageable with planned visits home.

If you're not at work, what does an ideal day off look like for you?

On days off, I enjoy meditation and breathing exercises, taking advantage of Tromso's clean air. I find solace in quiet spaces, allowing thoughts to flow without judgment, which helps me maintain balance and clarity.

Drawing credit: Akash Trivedi

If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would you go and why?

I would travel back home to India to be with my family, especially my young child. Family is a significant part of my life, and I look forward to their visit to Norway soon.

Can you share a book or a movie that has significantly influenced you?

Movies like "Rocky Balboa" and "The Shawshank Redemption" have influenced me greatly. They highlight perseverance and the human spirit, themes that resonate with my personal and professional journey.

What's one thing you are looking forward to next year, personally or professionally?

Professionally, I aim to learn basin filling models and develop proposals that leverage my skills for impactful projects. Personally, I look forward to my family's visit and settling into life in Norway.

Do you have a motto of life?

Life's challenges occupy only a small portion of our minds; the rest is often filled with hypotheticals or procrastination. Embracing reality and learning from patterns, both in life and science, is essential for growth and understanding.

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Akash Trivedi is an iC3 postdoc at the Arctic University of Norway in Tromsø, the capital of the Arctic. To find out more about his work, please check out his list of publications, or contact him by email or LinkedIn.

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Drawing credit: Akash Trivedi