Fundamentals of Petroleum Geology

About the Course

Petroleum geology plays a central role in the exploration and development of hydrocarbon resources, serving as the foundation for identifying, evaluating, and producing energy reserves. As the industry continues to balance increasing demand with geological complexity and economic pressure, a solid understanding of subsurface conditions is more important than ever. Professionals engaged in petroleum projects must be able to interpret geological data, recognise structural and stratigraphic patterns, and assess basin-scale systems to guide exploration and reduce uncertainty. With the need for cost-effective exploration and risk-informed development strategies, geological insight remains a critical driver of value creation in both conventional and unconventional plays.

This 5-day comprehensive Fundamentals of Petroleum Geology training course is designed to provide delegates with a structured and practical understanding of essential geological principles and workflows used across the petroleum value chain. It offers foundational knowledge critical to interpreting subsurface data, evaluating basin systems, and understanding the geological context of oil and gas prospects. Delegates will gain tools and techniques necessary to assess subsurface structures, analyse reservoir properties, and estimate hydrocarbon potential with confidence. Emphasis is placed on improving geological interpretation skills and understanding the formation and characteristics of traps, reservoirs, and source rocks. It also introduces key methods for evaluating geologic risk and uncertainty, assisting them to make better-informed exploration and development decisions.

Core Objectives

The delegates will achieve the following objectives:

• Describe the geological processes and formations relevant to hydrocarbon generation and accumulation
• Identify key sedimentary environments and their significance in petroleum system development
• Understand geological and geophysical data to assess reservoir characteristics and structural features
• Apply stratigraphic and structural concepts in evaluating potential exploration prospects
• Analyse the role of source rocks, traps, and seals in determining hydrocarbon potential
• Evaluate subsurface models for their geological consistency and exploration risk
• Integrate geological findings into multidisciplinary exploration and field development strategies

Training Approach

This training course applies a blended learning methodology incorporating interactive lectures, guided exercises, and real-world geological interpretations. Delegates will engage in group-based problem solving and data analysis to reinforce key concepts and strengthen practical application. Emphasis is placed on collaborative learning and knowledge sharing to ensure delegates gain both technical insights and industry-relevant skills.

The Attendees

This training course is intended for technical professionals involved in exploration, reservoir characterisation, and field development planning. Typically, part of multidisciplinary teams working to assess hydrocarbon potential and make informed geoscientific decisions within upstream oil & gas operations.

It will be valuable to the professionals, but not limited to the following:

• Exploration Geophysicists
• Petroleum Engineers
• Reservoir Engineers
• Subsurface Analysts
• Field Development Planners
• Energy Professionals transitioning into Geoscience roles
• Technical Staff supporting Exploration and Development Teams
• Asset Team Members involved in subsurface evaluation

Daily Discussion

DAY ONE: GEOLOGICAL ELEMENTS OF PETROLEUM SYSTEMS

• Source Rock Characterisation and Hydrocarbon Generation
• Reservoir Rock Properties and Porosity-Permeability Relationships
• Seal and Cap Rock Effectiveness in Trap Formation
• Overburden Pressure and Thermal Maturity Indicators
• Stratigraphic Framework and Sedimentary Basin Types

DAY TWO: STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY AND TRAP CLASSIFICATION

• Fault Geometry and Hydrocarbon Migration Pathways
• Anticlines, Fault Traps, and Structural Closure Mapping
• Diapirism and Salt-Related Trap Mechanisms
• Unconformities and Stratigraphic Trap Identification
• Tectonic Setting and Structural Deformation Analysis

DAY THREE: STRATIGRAPHY, DEPOSITIONAL ENVIRONMENTS, AND FACIES ANALYSIS

• Sequence Stratigraphy and Chronostratigraphic Units
• Clastic and Carbonate Depositional Systems Overview
• Facies Models and Lateral Reservoir Variability
• Transgressive-Regressive Cycles and Reservoir Distribution
• Paleogeography and Reservoir Prediction Techniques

DAY FOUR: HYDROCARBON EXPLORATION TECHNIQUES AND BASIN ANALYSIS

• Geological Mapping and Subsurface Interpretation Methods
• Basin Modelling and Petroleum System Evaluation
• Seismic Stratigraphy and Structural Integration
• Risk Assessment and Prospect Generation Criteria
• Well Log Interpretation in Geological Context

DAY FIVE: RESERVOIR CHARACTERISATION AND GEOLOGIC RISK ASSESSMENT

• Reservoir Geometry and Connectivity Estimation
• Volumetric Calculations and Hydrocarbon Estimation Principles
• Geological Uncertainty and Sensitivity Parameters
• Integration of Geological and Geophysical Data
• Risk Ranking and Prospect Maturity Classification

Certificate Awarded

Upon successful completion of this training course, participants will be awarded a Certificate of Completion from XCalibre Training Centre, acknowledging their accomplishment. This certificate serves as a testament to their dedication to developing their skills and advancing their expertise in their respective fields.