Could you shortly describe your academic background?

I am Professor of the University of Strasbourg and I have done my Ph.D. in Seismology in the University of Strasbourg.

Before this, I first got my diploma as a Geophysicist Engineer at EOST - the School and Observatory of Earth Sciences (under the supervisory authority of the University of Strasbourg and the French National Center for Scientific Research), in charge of education, research, observation in Earth Science and its diffusion. I am currently the Director of EOST.

Which teaching techniques do you use at UFAZ?

My technique of teaching is the same both at UFAZ and at the University of Strasbourg: I do not have a special class or session for exercises - I mix lectures and exercises. I speak for the first 10-15 minutes of the class, then I move to the exercise part. Thus, there is a lot of interaction taking place between teacher and students.

What are your impressions and feedbacks about UFAZ students?

Both at UFAZ and University of Strasbourg, I have students very interested and students a bit less interested in the class. Our goal is to show the way and teach them how to learn!

Can you tell us the advantages of your class of Earth Science and why Geophysics specialty is important for the future?

Geophysics is the specialty of the future. Students majoring in Geophysical Engineering will benefit from this opportunity in the long term since we need a lot of geoscientists for the future of the economy in order to search for our natural resources - oil, gas, minerals, water. We also need Geoscientists in order to manage the global energetic challenges of tomorrow which will also involve weather and environmental issues.

What are the current trends and career options for Geophysicist after graduation?

The current trend is very positive due to the increase in the costs of oil and gas. And generally, there is a clear correlation between the trend of geophysicists and trend of oil and gas. I am sure it will remain positive for a long period. It is not difficult to find a position in geosciences, because there are a lot of different opportunities to work on - not only in natural resources but also in technologies. For UFAZ students depending on their personal choices, they can work in Azerbaijan or abroad, in the oil and gas industry, service companies, or further continue their studies in Geophysical Research on geophysical. There are a lot of opened opportunities!

Interview realized by UFAZ PR department in Baku on 24 October 2018