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EMSC8012 An Introduction to Inverse Problems in the Earth Sciences

Offered By RSES Admin
Academic Career Graduate Coursework
Course Subject Earth and Marine Science
Offered in Autumn Session, 2009, Autumn Session, 2010, and Winter Session, 2010
Unit Value 6 units
Course Description

The purpose of the course is to introduce students to the principles and techniques of inversion and to give them an understanding of the underlying theory and ability to recognize and tackle inverse problems in the geosciences.

Lecture content will be structured around a series of examples which illustrate the broad range of inverse problems that arise in the Earth Sciences, and the various approaches that have been applied to inversion.

Areas to be covered include:

  • What is an inverse problem: linearized and non-uniqueness
  • Optimization under constrains
  • Data fit and regularization
  • The probabilistic approach
  • Fully non-linear inversion
  • Exploring parameter spaces
Course Classification(s) AdvancedAdvanced courses are designed for students having reached 'first degree' level of assumed knowledge, which provide a deep understanding of contemporary issues; or 'second degree' and higher levels of knowledge; or for transition to research training programs. and SpecialistSpecialist courses are designed for students having reached 'first degree' level of assumed knowledge, which provide for the acquisition of specialist skills; or 'second degree' and higher level of knowledge; or for transition to research training programs; or knowledge associated with professional accreditation.
Areas of Interest Earth and Marine Sciences
Eligibility Bachelor degree; with first year Maths. 
Requisite Statement

The course is aimed primarily at students with background in Physics and Mathematics, although it will be self contained. Knowledge of linear algebra will be an advantage. Some computer programming experience will also be very helpful.

Maths to a first year level is required. 

Academic Contact Prof Malcolm Sambridge

The information published on the Study at ANU 2009 website applies to the 2009 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2008 website.

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