REGISTRATION (Deadline: April 15, 2026)
A hands-on course to understand and model aquifers
Groundwater projects rely on field data whose quality and representativeness directly determine the reliability of analyses and models. This course aims to develop a critical understanding of measurement methods, associated uncertainties, and the limitations of conceptual models.
Participants will learn to:
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interpret hydrogeological observations within their broader context;
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identify sources of uncertainty and potential measurement biases;
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design monitoring strategies tailored to specific study objectives;
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link collected data to the parameters used in numerical models.
The entire workflow, from data acquisition to interpretation, will be applied to the study of an instrumented Oligocene confined aquifer, forming the basis for developing a conceptual hydrogeological model.
An instrumented experimental site and comprehensive field methods
The study site includes ten boreholes drilled into a locally karstified confined aquifer. Participants will work with professional equipment provided by ENSEGID, including:
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differential GPS and water level sensors;
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pumps and high-frequency pressure sensors;
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CTD probes for borehole logging;
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inspection camera;
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multiparameter probes for water quality monitoring (pH, temperature, conductivity, dissolved oxygen).
The training will cover the implementation of pumping tests, tracer tests, thermal profiling, and hydraulic tests, as well as data integration and analysis.
Programme
Online session – June 3 (3:00–5:00 PM)
Introduction of participants, presentation of the study site and the ATES system.
Day 1 – June 10
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Introduction to the local geology and log analysis
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Inspection of drilling equipment
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Programming and deployment of sensors
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Setup of a pumping test
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Monitoring of water levels and flow rates
Day 2 – June 11
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Design and implementation of a tracer test
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Fluorescein injection and monitoring
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Temperature–depth profiling
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Completion of the pumping test and data retrieval
Day 3 – June 12
Additional resources will be available via an e-learning platform (GIS, geostatistics, borehole construction, interpretation of pumping tests).
Instructors
The course is led by Alexandre Pryet and François Larroque, lecturers and researchers in groundwater hydrology at ENSEGID-Bordeaux INP; Michel Franceschi, specialist in hydrochemistry and environmental isotopes at ENSEGID-Bordeaux INP; and Francesca Lotti, founder of SYMPLE.
Practical Information
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Dates: June 10–12, 2026 (online session on June 3)
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Fee: €1,100 per participant
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Capacity: Maximum of 15 participants
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Language: The course will be conducted in English, French, and Italian (materials in English)
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Registration deadline: April 15, 2026
The registration fee includes lunches and coffee breaks, teaching materials, use of field equipment, access to the e-learning platform, and a certificate of participation.
Early registration before April 15, 2026 is recommended.
Contact
alexandre.pryet@bordeaux-inp.fr
REGISTRATION (Deadline: April 15, 2026)
