Teaching

The best reason to be a professor at Mines. (The other stuff can be done elsewhere.) I taught geophysics and computer science to Mines students.

CSCI 261, Spring, 2015

: In science and engineering today, we implement, simulate, and test new ideas with computer software. During their careers Mines graduates will use some of the world's most powerful computing machines. This course is a first step towards using them well. Learn more ...

GPGN 404, Fall, 2014

: We live in a digital world. Speech, image, video, almost any signal worth measuring today is a sampled function of time, space, or both. In this course we learn the special characteristics of these digital signals, and how to analyze and enhance them with computers. Learn more ...

GPGN 535, Fall, 2013

: Geophysical data volumes are vast and growing, and raw geophysical data are not easily understood. To make sense of these data today requires 2D, 3D and 4D image processing, numerical solutions of partial differential equations, data structures beyond simple arrays, interactive graphics, and parallel computing on increasingly multicore systems, using multiple programming languages and frameworks. Let's do this. Learn more ...

To succeed we all need help from teachers and mentors. I've had some great ones. Here are just a few:

Ken Larner taught me to never be impressed by complexity; rather, to look for simple lasting insights, especially in scientific writing and speaking. The wisdom in Ken's guidelines for presentations is timeless.
Jon Claerbout taught me seismic imaging and founded the Stanford Exploration Project where my fellow graduate students taught me much more.
Rutt Bridges is a master of finding win-win solutions in both business and public policy. Among other things, Rutt taught me the difference between a great idea and a successful business. (Hint: you need a Rutt.)