The Geophysics and Atmospheric Sciences Research Group constitutes a peer group under the auspices of the Department of Physics at USK, specifically accommodating students interested in the fields of Geophysics and Atmospheric Sciences. This research group functions not only 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 levels. Geophysicists utilise physical approaches to investigate the Earth, including seismic waves, the Earth’s magnetic field, gravity, and subsurface electrical methods. In light of the mounting imperative for exploration of natural resources and disaster mitigation, the role of this research group is of paramount importance as a centre for education and practical experience for future geophysicists.
Our Focus
The research group’s investigative approach encompasses observational data, modelling, and numerical simulation across four core themes. In the field of exploration geophysics, the proection of subsurface structures with seismic waves and resistivity is employed to identify resources such as oil, gas, and geothermal. The application of geoelectric surveys, reflection seismics, and InSAR enables the mapping of the underground with precision. The focus of this study is geophysical disasters. The research involves the analysis of earthquake and tsunami records, the construction of mathematical and computational models to predict the propagation of tsunamis from local to regional scales, and the study of paleotsunami evidence to reconstruct the history of past events. In the discipline of atmospheric science and hydrometeorology, the assessment of local climate change is facilitated through the integration of ground observations and satellite imagery. The utilisation of remote sensing technologies is instrumental in the mitigation of flood and high-wind events, while Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping facilitates the identification of vulnerable areas. Finally, computational geophysics synthesises these strands through simulations of seismic wave propagation and subsurface fluids, partial differential equation (PDE)-based models of natural hazards (e.g., wave and heat equations), and artificial intelligence (AI) methods that leverage spatial–temporal data for predictive modelling.
Vision and Mission
The Geophysics and Atmospheric Science Peer Group aspires to become a leading academic community in Geophysics, oriented towards scientific development, practical skills, and real contributions to society. The following list enumerates the missions of this peer group:
- The organisation of regular scientific studies and discussions on the latest issues and topics in the fields of geophysics and atmospheric science is of paramount importance.
- The development of members’ technical skills is facilitated through the implementation of modelling-inversion training and the introduction to the latest geophysical software.
- Encourage independent and collaborative research in the field of applied geophysics.
- Increase participation in seminars, scientific competitions, and cooperation with outside agencies, such as BMKG, Geological Agency, and energy and Disaster companies.
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.
Gallery Activities
Our Staff
Research Topics
| Year | Research Title | Research Leader |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Exploration and monitoring of geothermal potential at Mount Peuet Sagou using multi-source satellite data and infrared spectroscopy | Dr. Nasrullah, S.Si., M.Si., M.Sc |
| 2021 | Design of an Arduino-based needle probe for estimating subsurface temperature distribution models at Mount Seulawah Agam | Muhammad Isa |
| 2021 | Identification of Hydrological Alterations Caused by Tsunami Sediments and Post-2004 Mega-Earthquake Lithological Distortions in the Aceh Coastal Region Using Geophysical Methods | Prof. Dr. Ir.. Muhammad Syukri, S.Si, M.T., IPM., ASEAN.Eng |
| 2021 | Application of Natural Static Potential in Identifying Subsurface Structures in Geological Disaster-Prone Areas, Banda Aceh | Prof. Dr. Ir.. Muhammad Syukri, S.Si, M.T., IPM., ASEAN.Eng |
| 2021 | Investigation of Shallow Earth Structures Along the Sumatra Fault and Seulimeum Fault | Prof. Dr. Muksin, S.Si, M.Si., M.Phil |
| 2021 | Study of Earthquake Potential in Seismic Gap Zones Based on Stress Changes and Expected Energy in Sumatra for More Accurate Tsunami Modeling | Prof. Dr. Muksin, S.Si, M.Si., M.Phil |
| 2021 | Investigation of Active Faults and Seismic Vulnerability in Southeast Aceh and Mitigation Efforts | Prof. Dr. Muksin, S.Si, M.Si., M.Phil |
| 2021 | Update on the Tectonic Framework of Northern Sumatra Using Integrated Seismological Methods | Prof. Dr. Muksin, S.Si, M.Si., M.Phil |
| 2021 | Reconstruction of Tsunami History Along the Banda Aceh Coast Based on Geoarchaeological Studies | Prof. Dr. Nazli, S.Si, M.Si |
| 2021 | Mapping and 3D Modeling of the Sumatra Fault Branching in the Northern Section Based on Resistivity Distribution Using the Magnetotelluric Method to Support Earthquake Hazard Mitigation Efforts in Aceh | Prof. Dr. Nazli, S.Si, M.Si |
| 2022 | DEVELOPMENT OF A MACHINE LEARNING-BASED MODEL FOR PREDICTING HEAVY AND EXTREME MONTHLY RAINFALL FOR FLOOD DISASTER MITIGATION IN ACEH PROVINCE: A CASE STUDY OF NORTH AND SOUTH REGIONS | Fadhli, S.Si., M.Si. |
| 2022 | CHARACTERIZATION OF SHALLOW STRUCTURES BASED ON ROCK ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES IN RELATION TO THE POTENTIAL FOR LAND SUBSIDENCE IN NORTH ACEH | Prof. Dr. Ir.. Muhammad Syukri, S.Si, M.T., IPM., ASEAN.Eng |
| 2022 | Updating the Tectonic Framework of Northern Sumatra Using Integrated Seismology Methods | Prof. Dr. Muksin, S.Si, M.Si., M.Phil |
| 2022 | Mapping and 3D Modeling of the Sumatran Fault System in the Northern Region Based on Resistivity Distributions from Magnetotelluric Methods to Support Earthquake Hazard Mitigation Efforts in Aceh | Prof. Dr. Nazli, S.Si, M.Si |
| 2022 | IDENTIFYING ANCIENT TSUNAMI SITES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF DISASTER HERITAGE TOURISM IN BANDA ACEH AND ACEH BESAR | Prof. Dr. Nazli, S.Si, M.Si |
| 2023 | INTERPRETATION OF ELECTRICAL LOGGING GEOPHYSICAL DATA TO IDENTIFY WEAK ZONE LAYERS RELATED TO LIQUIFACTION POTENTIAL IN THE PIDIE JAYA AREA | Prof. Dr. Ir.. Muhammad Syukri, S.Si, M.T., IPM., ASEAN.Eng |
| 2023 | Identification of Seawater Intrusion and Estimation of Flow Rates in Surface Layers Using the Resistivity Method and Darcy’s Law for the Benefit of the Plantation Sector in the Susoh Area of Southwest Aceh | Prof. Dr. Ir.. Muhammad Syukri, S.Si, M.T., IPM., ASEAN.Eng |
| 2023 | INTEGRATION OF A REAL-TIME EARTHQUAKE OBSERVATION SYSTEM BASED ON LOW-COST SENSORS AND COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION FOR SAFER REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT | Prof. Dr. Muksin, S.Si, M.Si., M.Phil |
| 2023 | A THREE-DIMENSIONAL STUDY OF THE SHALLOW EARTH'S CRUST IN NORTHERN SUMATRA USING THE AMBIENT NOISE TOMOGRAPHY METHOD | Prof. Dr. Muksin, S.Si, M.Si., M.Phil |
| 2023 | Investigation of Geothermal Characteristics at Geureudong, Aceh, Using an Integration of Geological and Geophysical Methods | Prof. Dr. Muksin, S.Si, M.Si., M.Phil |
| 2024 | Analysis of Subsurface Resistivity Models to Investigate the Causes of Road Failure in the Aceh Besar Region | Prof. Dr. Ir.. Muhammad Syukri, S.Si, M.T., IPM., ASEAN.Eng |
| 2024 | Integration of a Real-Time Earthquake Observation System Based on Low-Cost Sensors and Community Participation for Safer Regional | Prof. Dr. Muksin, S.Si, M.Si., M.Phil |
| 2024 | Investigation of the Geothermal Characteristics of Wayang Windu Before and After Fluid Injection Using Seismic Tomography | Prof. Dr. Muksin, S.Si, M.Si., M.Phil |
| 2024 | Integrating Airborne Magnetic and GIS Data to Evaluate Potential Groundwater Zones in the Banda Aceh and Aceh Besar Watersheds | Prof. Dr. Nazli, S.Si, M.Si |
| 2024 | Subsurface Karst Investigation of the Ek Leuntie Cave Area Using Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) | Prof. Dr. Nazli, S.Si, M.Si |