The conference’s technical program puts the focus on ‘stratigraphic reference models’ that are predictive with respect to the stratigraphic architecture, including the geometries, primary facies distribution and diagenetic overprint of relevant oil-bearing carbonate systems in the Mesozoic and Tertiary around the NeoTethys. For many of the relevant intervals, good outcrop analogues are now available, and for most of them high-resolution seismic as well. With the dramatic upsurge in exploration activity, we expect a lively interest in this integrated approach from the international petroleum community.

Conference topics include:

• A focus on different specific stratigraphic internvals (e.g., Aptian, Cenomanian-Turonian, Paleocene, Eocene, Oligo-Miocene), combining both outcrop analogue and high-resolution seismic work
• Stratigraphic framework as control of diagenesis
• Burial diagenesis vs. depositional facies and geomentries
• Rock typing: fact or fiction?
• Modelling (stratigraphic, diagenetic, reservoir)