Lars Nielsen takes over the editorship of Advances in Geophysics from 2016. We talk to him about his career and what the future looks like for researchers working in geophysics.

1) What is your current role and where are you based?

I’m a Professor of Geophysics, Faculty of Science at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark.

2) How did you become a geophysicist? Why did you choose geophysics for your career?

I was always fascinated by physics, and I became very interested in geology during high school. Therefore, the choice to become a geophysicist was an easy choice to make!

3) What do you most enjoy about your work?

Working in depth with challenging problems. For me the mix between theoretical work and field work is a main driver. At the same time I very much enjoy research based teaching, and lively discussions with interested students is a motivating factor in my work life.

4) What are you currently researching and where do you hope that research will lead?

My current research is focused on two main topics: 1) Estimation of relative sea-level change and differential vertical land movement during the past ~10,0000 years; 2) Characterization of reservoir analogous rocks with implications for groundwater and hydrocarbon-related research and exploration.

5) What most excites you in geophysics research currently?

The mix between practical work (i.e. field data acquisition) and theoretical/methodological developments.

6) What is the biggest challenge that your field is facing at the moment?

To acquire field data with the best possible resolution, to improve our understanding of the influence of (geological) noise on the data, and develop methods that improve sub-surface imaging and handling of noise.

7) What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in your time as a researcher? How different is it for researchers starting out now?

Studies have become much more interdisciplinary. Linked geology-geophysics-physics-biology-based studies have become essential in large projects aimed at answering big scientific questions. This is a great opportunity for young scientists.

8) What advice would you give to researchers just starting out in their career? In science in general, and specifically within the geophysics world.

Think across disciplines, and admit that as a specialist in one field you cannot provide unique answers to all questions. Be open-minded and invite people from other disciplines to take part in your research.

9) You’ve just taken over as editor of the book series Advances in Geophysics. What are the major benefits for readers of this book series?

This book series should provide high-quality reviews outlining the present state of the art and the suggested road ahead for a broad range of disciplines. It should be one of the primary sources of information for people wanting to establish an overview of a certain research field.

Advances in Geophysics is a highly respected publication in the field of geophysics. Since 1952, each volume has been eagerly awaited, frequently consulted, and praised by researchers and reviewers alike. Now with over 50 volumes, the series contains much material still relevant today-truly an essential publication for researchers in all fields of geophysics.

El Niño/Southern Oscillation and Selected Environmental Consequences by Tomasz Niedzielski from Advances in Geophysics volume 55 is available to download for free below:

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