Project 2516 sy: Summer School on Speleothem Science (S4)

The Summer School on Speleothem Science (S4) is an educational initiative focused on speleothems, which are natural deposits in karst environments that provide valuable insights into climatic and environmental evolution.

Abstract

The Summer School on Speleothem Science (S4) is an educational program designed to train graduate students and early-career researchers (ECRs) in speleothem science, which studies natural deposits in karst environments to understand past climate and environmental changes. ​ The program combines lectures, workshops, and field trips led by experts, fostering collaboration, networking, and career development. It emphasizes environmentally responsible practices, such as sustainable sampling and cave conservation, while promoting awareness of the environmental impact of scientific activities. ​ S4 also aims to minimize its ecological footprint through carbon offset programs, waste reduction, and plant-based catering.
The workshop’s goals are to provide participants with theoretical knowledge, laboratory skills, and field experience in speleothem science. ​ It seeks to create an inclusive environment by engaging a diverse, gender-balanced group of participants from various backgrounds, with a focus on supporting students from developing countries. ​ Outreach activities, including media coverage and public articles, aim to raise awareness about speleothem science and cave conservation, while fostering global collaboration in the field.

Project leaders:

  • Yassine Ait Brahim, University Mohammed VI Polytechnic, Morocco
  • Khalil Azennoud, University Mohammed VI Polytechnic, Marocco

Upcoming event

  • Summer School on Speleothem Science (S4) 20-26 October, 2025 (Ben Guerir and Agadir, Morocco)

Latest developments

View moreLatest developments