PHD at Charles University in Prague
Jan Mrlina, born in former Czechoslovakia, is a geophysicist specializing in gravimetry. He graduated from Charles University in Prague with an RNDr. title and earned his Ph.D. in 2009 with a focus on 4D Gravity Surveys. Mrlina’s career began at Geofyzika, where he led exploration missions in the Middle East and Africa. He later joined the Czech Academy of Sciences, leading research in exploration, geoengineering, and volcanology. He has published around 80 scientific papers and is a member of numerous international associations. Mrlina has received honors for his contributions to geophysics, including awards from Myanmar and Egypt.
Professional Profiles
Strengths for the Award
Extensive Experience: Jan Mrlina has a solid foundation in applied geophysics, particularly gravimetry, with significant experience across various geoscience fields, including exploration, geoengineering, and volcanology. His leadership in research projects and his work in exploration missions in diverse regions, such as the Middle East and Africa, highlights his global impact and expertise.
Scientific Contributions: With around 80 scientific publications, Jan Mrlina has made substantial contributions to his field. His work, particularly the discovery of a Quaternary volcanic maar structure, which led to a surge of interest in such formations, is highly influential. His most-cited paper from 2009 is a testament to the importance and impact of his research.
Recognition and Leadership: Mrlina’s recognition by international organizations, including honorary memberships and awards, underscores his contributions to the field of geophysics. Being selected as a Distinguished Lecturer by the EAGE and receiving a medal from the Arab Association of Geophysics and Astronomy further affirm his standing in the scientific community.
Professional Affiliations: His active membership in numerous prestigious associations, such as SEG, EAGE, SPE, IAVCEI, and IAEG, reflects his deep integration and leadership within the global geophysics community.
Areas for Improvement
Innovative Methodologies: While Mrlina has a strong background in gravimetry and exploration, the Best Paper Award often looks for groundbreaking or innovative methodologies that push the boundaries of current knowledge. Mrlina might focus on highlighting any novel techniques or approaches he has developed in his recent work.
Interdisciplinary Impact: To further strengthen his candidacy, Mrlina could emphasize the interdisciplinary applications of his research, particularly how his work in gravimetry intersects with other scientific fields or how it has led to advancements beyond traditional geoscience applications.
Recent Contributions: Highlighting his most recent contributions and how they address current challenges in geophysics or related fields could bolster his case for the award. This includes demonstrating the continued relevance and innovation of his work in the context of emerging scientific and technological trends.
Early Life and Education
Jan Mrlina was born in the former Czechoslovakia and currently resides in the Czech Republic (Czechia). He pursued his higher education at Charles University in Prague, where he graduated from the Department of Applied Geophysics, earning the RNDr. title. In 2009, he achieved his Ph.D. with a thesis focused on 4D Gravity Survey
Professional Career
Jan Mrlina began his career at Geofyzika, a company specializing in exploration gravimetry, where he later became the head of the gravity department. His work took him on various exploration missions, primarily in the Middle East and Africa. Subsequently, he joined the Institute of Geophysics at the Czech Academy of Sciences in Prague, where he led numerous research projects across fields such as exploration, geoengineering, volcanology, and archaeology.
Publications
The discovery of the “muons-chamber” in the Great pyramid; could high-precision microgravimetry also map the chamber?, Publication date: 2022.
Atmosphere and Lithosphere Interaction Could Triggered the 2023 Mw 7.8 Turkey Earthquake, Publication date: 2023.
Caprock and Depth of Ceiling Impact on Gravity Signal Strength from Salt Diapirs, Publication date: 2023.
Merapi complete Bouguer anomaly changes based on gravity data of Merapi in 2020-2019, Publication date: 2023.
Impact of salt diapir geometry and caprock composition on gravity survey results, Publication date: 2024.
Conclusion
Jan Mrlina is a strong candidate for the Research for Best Paper Award due to his extensive experience, significant contributions to geophysics, and recognition by the global scientific community. His work, particularly in gravimetry, has had a notable impact on the understanding of geological structures, with his discoveries sparking new areas of research. However, to further strengthen his candidacy, it would be beneficial to emphasize any innovative methodologies and interdisciplinary impacts in his recent work. With these considerations, Mrlina’s body of work presents a compelling case for recognition with this award.