Engineer at Shaanxi Institute of Geological Survey, China

Tingting Ke is a geothermal energy specialist whose career blends rigorous academic training with practical engineering application. With a PhD focused on geothermal resource potential assessment, she has contributed significantly to China’s geothermal development, particularly in sedimentary basins and karst reservoirs. Her work spans thermal modeling, lithospheric heat flow analysis, and geothermal exploitation simulations. Currently an engineer at the Shaanxi Institute of Geological Survey, she is known for integrating spatial data techniques into geothermal evaluation. Through field studies and multi-national conference presentations, she promotes sustainable energy strategies and advances scientific understanding in geological thermal systems.

Profile

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Education

Her educational journey began with a Bachelor’s in Environmental Engineering, followed by a Master’s and then a PhD from Xi’an Jiaotong University. Her graduate studies focused intensively on geothermal resource exploitation and heat transfer modeling. During her doctorate (2017–2022), she led research on geothermal potential using spatial data integration. Her academic work laid the foundation for her application-based innovations, combining deep theoretical insight with geological survey practices. The rigorous training in numerical simulation, heat flow assessment, and environmental analysis equipped her with a multi-disciplinary edge in geothermal resource development across diverse geological environments in China.

Experience

Since 2022, Ke has served as an engineer at the Geothermal Resources and Geological Environment Survey Institute within the Shaanxi Institute of Geological Survey. Her responsibilities include conducting geothermal feasibility studies, modeling reservoir behavior, and evaluating lithospheric thermal structures. She has contributed to major national and provincial research programs, including heat flow mapping in the Erlian Basin and geothermal system analysis in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Bay Area. She also leads a youth project on karst reservoir development in the Guanzhong Basin. Her project leadership and collaborative field expertise underscore her growing influence in China’s renewable energy sector.

Research Interest

Ke’s research interests lie at the intersection of geothermal potential assessment, multi-doublet performance modeling, and lithospheric heat source analysis. She explores how geological structures influence thermal distribution and reservoir sustainability. Her fascination with karst systems and hot sedimentary aquifers drives her to develop advanced simulation tools for predicting extraction performance. She also emphasizes the use of integrated spatial data and economic analysis to evaluate feasibility. Her long-term goal is to create comprehensive geothermal evaluation systems that blend geological science, environmental engineering, and energy economics—especially within rapidly urbanizing zones like Xiong’an and Xi’an.

Awards

In recognition of her growing expertise and leadership, Ke was appointed Principal Investigator for a Youth General Project under the Shaanxi Provincial Department of Science and Technology in 2024. This honor underscores her capability to lead research on karst geothermal reservoirs. She has participated in multiple high-profile grants through the National Natural Science Foundation of China and regional geological exploration programs. Her presentations at global geothermal and environmental sustainability conferences, including the IUGG General Assembly and the ISCES forum, have earned widespread praise and solidified her presence as an emerging leader in geothermal science.

Publications

Among her noteworthy scientific contributions:

Ke, T.T., Xu, W., Yu, R.Y., Zhou, Y., Zhang, Y.G., 2025. Evaluation of geothermal resource potential based on spatial data integration models: case study of Xiong’an New Area, North China.

Ke, T.T., Huang, S.P., Xu, W., Tang, X.Y., Li, X.X., 2022. Evaluation of the multi-doublet performance in sandstone reservoirs using thermal-hydraulic modeling and economic analysis.

Ke, T.T., Huang, S.P., Xu, W., Li, X.X., 2021. Study on heat extraction performance of multiple-doublet system in Hot Sedimentary Aquifers: Case study from the Xianyang geothermal field, Northwest China.

Ke, T.T., Huang, S.P., Xu, W., Numerical simulation of geothermal well production and injection Development Model in Fengxi Area, Guanzhong Basin Quaternary Research

Xu, W., Li, Y., Zhou, L.M., Ke, T.T., et al., 2020. Lithospheric thermal regime under the Qinling Orogenic Belt and the Weihe Basin: A transect across the Yangtze and the North China cratons in central China.

Xu, W., Huang, S.P., Zhang, J., Zuo, Y.H., Zhou, Y.S., Ke, T.T., et al., 2021. Geothermal gradient and heat flow of the Erlian Basin and adjacent areas, Northern China: Geodynamic implication.

Xu, W., Tang, X.Y., Cheng, L.Y., Dong, Y., Zhang, Y.P., Ke, T.T. , et al., 2022. Heat Flow and Thermal Source of the Xi’an Depression, Weihe Basin, Central China. Frontiers in Earth Science

Conclusion

Tingting Ke exemplifies the dynamic fusion of academic rigor, field research, and strategic geothermal application. Her progression from student researcher to engineering lead has equipped her to tackle critical challenges in renewable energy. Her contributions to geothermal science—spanning simulation modeling, basin heat flow studies, and international knowledge exchange—position her as a transformative figure in China’s clean energy landscape. As an innovator grounded in data-driven methods and cross-disciplinary collaboration, she continues to push boundaries in geothermal system development and serves as a role model for emerging scientists in the field.

Cristiano Fick | Reservoir Simulation and Modeling | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 15/07/202515/07/2025 by Petroleum Engineering

Dr. Cristiano Fick | Reservoir Simulation and Modeling | Best Researcher Award

Post-doctoral Researcher at Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Dr. Cristiano Fick is a sedimentology researcher whose work bridges experimental modeling and coastal geology. With a foundation in marine geology and bioclastic sedimentation, his contributions span academic research, technical consultancy, and editorial leadership. His focus on coquinas and carbonate accumulations has positioned him as a specialist in physical modeling of sedimentary processes. Through collaborative efforts and consistent publication, he has advanced understanding of coastal sediment dynamics and biogenic rock formations, making him a strong candidate for recognition in petroleum engineering research.

Profile

Orcid

Education

Dr. Fick’s academic journey began with a degree in Geology, followed by a Master of Science in Marine Geology. He later earned a PhD in Science with a specialization in sedimentology, particularly the study of bioclastic accumulations such as coquinas. His doctoral research emphasized the physical behavior and depositional patterns of carbonate-rich sediments, laying the groundwork for his postdoctoral investigations. His education reflects a strong commitment to geological sciences, with a particular interest in experimental sedimentology and coastal processes.

Experience

Professionally, Dr. Fick serves as a postdoctoral researcher at the Laboratory of Sedimentary Geology (LAGESED) at Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro. His work involves experimental modeling of coquinas using wave tanks and sediment channels at NECOD/IPH. In addition to his academic role, he acts as a technical consultant for sedimentary modeling projects, contributing to both research and applied industry efforts. His experience spans fieldwork, laboratory experimentation, and collaborative research, making him a versatile contributor to sedimentological studies.

Research Interest

Dr. Fick’s research interests center on sedimentology, coastal dynamics, and biogenic carbonate rocks. He investigates the formation and behavior of coquinas through physical modeling, aiming to replicate natural depositional environments in controlled settings. His work contributes to understanding how wave energy, sediment transport, and bioclastic composition influence accumulation patterns. These insights are valuable for petroleum reservoir characterization, coastal management, and geological modeling. His interdisciplinary approach integrates geology, hydrodynamics, and experimental design.

Award

While Dr. Fick has not yet received formal awards, his nomination reflects recognition of his growing impact in sedimentological research. His editorial appointments in over ten journals and his consultancy role in industry projects underscore his professional credibility. His work on coquinas and carbonate sedimentation has relevance to petroleum exploration and reservoir modeling, aligning with the goals of the Petroleum Engineering Awards. His nomination is a testament to his dedication and emerging leadership in the field.

Publication

Dr. Fick has published twelve peer-reviewed journal articles indexed in SCI and Scopus. Below are seven selected publications:

2020 – Análise tafonômica de concentrações bioclásticas geradas em modelagem física de um sistema de águas rasas dominado por ondas, published in Pesquisas em Geociências.

2020 – Threshold of motion of bivalve and gastropod shells under oscillatory flow in flume experiments, published in Sedimentology.

2018 – Shell concentration dynamics driven by wave motion in flume experiments: Insights for coquina facies from lake-margin settings, published in Sedimentary Geology.

2017 – Autogenic influence on the morphology of submarine fans: An approach from 3D physical modelling of turbidity currents, published in the Brazilian Journal of Geology.

2017 – Sedimentology and stratigraphy of a deltaic deposit generated by physical modelling from core samples, published in Pesquisas em Geociências.

2019 – Sedimentologia das concentrações de conchas de moluscos (coquinas) em ambiente de águas rasas dominado por ondas: um estudo experimental do bioclasto à fácie, a thesis that has informed subsequent journal publications on coquina formation and sediment dynamics.

2025 – Sedimentological and biofabric patterns for hybrid coquina deposits: Insights from wave tank experiments, published in Sedimentology.

Conclusion

Dr. Fick’s body of work demonstrates a consistent focus on sedimentary processes and carbonate systems. His publications reflect a blend of theoretical insight and experimental rigor, contributing to both academic discourse and practical applications in petroleum geology. His editorial roles and research collaborations further amplify his influence. With a strong foundation in marine geology and a specialized focus on coquinas, Dr. Fick exemplifies the qualities of a researcher whose work advances the field of petroleum engineering. His nomination is well-deserved and timely.

Shuangmei Zou | Reservoir Fluid Flow | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 09/07/2025 by Petroleum Engineering

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Shuangmei Zou | Reservoir Fluid Flow | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at China University of Geosciences, China

Dr. Shuangmei Zou is an Associate Professor at the School of Earth Resources, China University of Geosciences. With over a decade of academic and professional experience, she specializes in porous media characterization and subsurface flow processes critical to energy transition technologies. Her research bridges experimental and computational techniques to explore fluid dynamics in geological formations. Dr. Zou is a respected scholar with numerous publications in leading journals and editorial responsibilities. She actively contributes to global scientific communities through professional memberships and international collaborations. Her interdisciplinary expertise and commitment to applied geoscience have made significant contributions to energy resource optimization.

👤 Profile

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🏫 Education

Dr. Zou completed her Ph.D. in Petroleum Engineering at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), Australia, in 2018. Her doctoral research, under the supervision of Professors Ryan T. Armstrong, Christoph Arns, and Furqan Hussain, focused on multiphase flow and pore-scale phenomena in porous media. She previously earned a Master’s degree in Oil and Gas Field Engineering (2012) and a Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering (2009), both from China University of Geosciences. Her academic foundation combines rigorous engineering and geoscience training, equipping her with a solid theoretical background and practical problem-solving skills relevant to energy systems and reservoir engineering.

💼 Experience

Dr. Zou currently serves as an Associate Professor at the China University of Geosciences, a role she has held since March 2022. She began her academic career at the same institution as a Lecturer in 2019. Before transitioning to academia, she worked as an Assistant Reservoir Engineer for the China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), where she applied reservoir simulation and engineering techniques in field development. Her career trajectory reflects a blend of industry knowledge and academic rigor, enabling her to mentor students and lead research on subsurface fluid transport, underground energy storage, and pore-scale material modeling.

🔬 Research Interest

Dr. Zou’s research spans digital materials characterization, porous media imaging, and modeling of multiphase flow. She investigates the physical principles governing fluid displacement in geological systems using advanced X-ray micro-computed tomography and pore-scale imaging. Her work supports innovations in underground energy storage, enhanced oil recovery, and carbon capture technologies. She has pioneered methods for analyzing wettability effects and interfacial dynamics in mixed-wet and water-wet conditions. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates petroleum engineering, geophysics, and computational modeling, contributing to the scientific understanding and practical advancement of future energy technologies under complex subsurface conditions.

🏅 Award

Dr. Zou’s academic excellence has been recognized with several prestigious awards. She received a Ph.D. Research Stipend and Full Tuition Fee Scholarship from UNSW between 2013 and 2017. In 2016, she was awarded the Postgraduate Research Student Support (PRSS) Conference Travel Grant by the UNSW Graduate Research School, which supported her participation in international conferences. Earlier in her academic journey, she earned the National Endeavor Scholarship from China University of Geosciences in 2008. These honors reflect her sustained academic performance and recognition by both domestic and international institutions for her potential and contributions to research.

📚 Publication

Dr. Zou has authored numerous influential publications, including the following selected works:

Kang N, Zou S, et al. (2025). “Insights into Interfacial Dynamic and Displacement Patterns…” Journal of Geophysical Research: Solid Earth (Accepted).
Cai J, Qin X, Wang H, Xia Y, Zou S. (2024). “Pore-scale investigation of forced imbibition…” Journal of Rock Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering, Cited by 6.
Zou S, Zhang Y, Ma L. (2024). “Imaging techniques for optimizing underground energy storage.” Advances in Geo-Energy Research, Cited by 10.
Zou S, et al. (2024). “Energy signature in multiphase flow regimes.” Water Resources Research, 60(3), Cited by 14.
Zou S, et al. (2022). “Characterization of Two-Phase Flow…” Energies, 15(6):2036, Cited by 18.
Zou S, Liu Y, Cai J, et al. (2020). “Influence of capillarity on relative permeability.” Water Resources Research, 56(11), Cited by 21.
Zou S, Sun C. (2020). “X-ray imaging of wettability in porous media: A review.” Capillarity, 3(3), Cited by 25.

These publications reflect her contributions to the fields of geophysics, fluid mechanics, and porous media research.

🧾 Conclusion

Dr. Shuangmei Zou is a distinguished researcher whose work has significantly advanced the understanding of multiphase flow in porous media. Her publications and leadership roles in editorial boards demonstrate her influence in the scientific community. She bridges the gap between theoretical modeling and practical application, enabling technological advancements in underground energy storage and enhanced oil recovery. Her research has both academic value and real-world impact, addressing critical challenges in the energy sector. Through innovative experimentation, high-impact scholarship, and international collaboration, Dr. Zou exemplifies the qualities of a leading scientist deserving of recognition and further opportunities for advancement.

Hu Jia | Water Shutoff | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 08/07/2025 by Petroleum Engineering

Prof. Dr. Hu Jia | Water Shutoff | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Southwest Petroleum University, China

Prof. Hu Jia is a distinguished academic in petroleum engineering, currently serving at the State Key Laboratory of Oil and Gas Reservoir Geology and Exploitation, Southwest Petroleum University, China. His work bridges the gap between chemical formulation and reservoir engineering, focusing on enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and oilfield chemistry. With a career marked by innovation and practical impact, Prof. Jia has developed advanced materials for water shutoff, conformance control, and wellbore plugging. His research has been successfully applied in major Chinese oil companies, including CNPC, CNOOC, and Sinopec. He is widely recognized for translating laboratory breakthroughs into field-scale solutions.

📘 Profile

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🎓 Education

Prof. Jia’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering from Yangtze University (2002–2006), followed by a Master’s and PhD in Petroleum Engineering from Southwest Petroleum University (2006–2012). His doctoral work laid the foundation for his future research in polymer gels and reservoir simulation. He later expanded his international exposure through a postdoctoral research position at Texas Tech University (2015–2016), where he contributed to advanced polymer science and well completion technologies. This blend of domestic and international education has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of both theoretical and applied petroleum engineering.

🛠️ Experience

Prof. Jia has held progressive academic roles at Southwest Petroleum University, starting as a Lecturer (2012–2014), then Associate Professor (2015–2018), and currently as a full Professor since 2019. His professional experience also includes a six-month internship with CNPC & Chevron’s CDB Gas Project, where he gained hands-on field exposure. He has led or co-led nearly 40 research projects funded by national foundations and major oil corporations. His editorial and peer-review contributions span over 20 international journals, reflecting his leadership in the scientific community. His work consistently integrates experimental research with field implementation, making him a sought-after expert in EOR.

🔬 Research Interests

Prof. Jia’s research focuses on enhanced oil recovery, particularly through the development of functional materials such as polymer gels, microgels, and nanocomposites. His work addresses challenges in water shutoff, conformance control, and temporary wellbore plugging under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions. He emphasizes the synergy between chemical design and reservoir simulation, using both laboratory experiments and numerical modeling. His recent studies explore the elastic energy release of polymer gels and the application of fuzzy logic in evaluating conformance treatments. His innovations are not only scientifically rigorous but also tailored for real-world oilfield applications, bridging academia and industry.

🏆 Awards

Prof. Jia has received numerous accolades for his academic and technological contributions. These include the prestigious Fok Ying Tung Education Foundation Award (2020), the Feixiang Technology Rookie Award—the highest academic honor at SWPU—and multiple Science and Technology Progress Awards from national petroleum associations. He was also nominated for the Eni Award and recognized for outstanding doctoral dissertations at both provincial and university levels. His editorial excellence has earned him Outstanding Reviewer awards from journals like Fuel and the Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering. These honors underscore his impact on both research and education in petroleum engineering.

📚 Selected Publications

Prof. Jia has authored over 90 peer-reviewed papers and holds 17 patents. His work has garnered more than 1,200 citations on Google Scholar. Notable publications include:

Jia H. et al. (2024). “Polymer gel for water shutoff…” SPE Journal. Cited by 15.
Jia H. et al. (2023). “High-Density solid-free flexible microgel…” SPE Journal. Cited by 22.
Jia H. et al. (2022). “New insights into the DPR mechanism…” Petroleum. Cited by 18.
Jia H. et al. (2022). “Fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method…” Petroleum. Cited by 10.
Jia H. et al. (2021). “Solid-Free Flexible Colloidal Completion Fluid…” SPE Journal. Cited by 25.
Jia H. et al. (2020). “Highly Elastic Composite Gel…” SPE Journal. Cited by 30.
Jia H. et al. (2019). “In-situ generated foamed gel…” SPE Journal. Cited by 28.

🧾 Conclusion

Prof. Hu Jia exemplifies the integration of scientific innovation with engineering application. His pioneering work in polymer-based EOR technologies has significantly advanced the field of petroleum engineering. With a strong foundation in education, a robust research portfolio, and a commitment to practical problem-solving, he continues to influence both academic and industrial spheres. His leadership in research, mentorship, and international collaboration positions him as a key contributor to the future of sustainable oil and gas development.

Zhitao Hao | Petroleum Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 03/07/202507/07/2025 by Petroleum Engineering

Dr. Zhitao Hao | Petroleum Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, China

Dr. Zhitao Hao is a dedicated researcher and innovator in the field of loess engineering geology, focusing extensively on both the theoretical and applied aspects of geological disaster prevention in loess regions. His work revolves around exploring the underlying mechanisms of loess formation, its structural behavior under stress, and developing advanced solutions for mitigating geohazards like landslides and collapses. Driven by a deep commitment to scientific advancement and practical application, Hao bridges the gap between theory and engineering implementation, offering vital support for infrastructure safety and sustainable development in vulnerable loess areas. Through pioneering studies and effective field applications, he has significantly influenced the field, earning high academic recognition.

Profile

Scopus

Education

While the document does not list formal educational qualifications, Zhitao Hao’s academic trajectory is clearly grounded in a strong research-oriented education in engineering geology, particularly centered on the study of loess. His depth of expertise in conducting mechanical experiments, numerical simulations, and microstructural analysis indicates rigorous academic training in geology, geotechnical engineering, or a closely related discipline. The sophistication of his research outputs and methodologies also reflects advanced graduate-level education, likely including a Ph.D., that enables him to contribute substantively to both fundamental and applied science in his field.

Experience

Hao has extensive experience in investigating and solving practical geological challenges in loess regions. His professional work emphasizes both theoretical innovation and on-the-ground implementation. Over the course of his career, he has conducted microstructural analyses of loess formations, carried out comprehensive mechanical behavior studies, and utilized numerical modeling techniques to better understand and predict geological responses. His practical experience includes the successful application of disaster mitigation technologies in real-world engineering projects, directly impacting infrastructure resilience and community safety. This blend of academic rigor and hands-on project execution exemplifies his dual strength in both research and engineering practice.

Research Interest

Dr. Zhitao Hao’s primary research interests lie in loess engineering geology, loess geological disasters, and the development of integrated theoretical-practical models to address structural and mechanical challenges. He has focused on two main theoretical frameworks: the genesis mechanism of loess structure and the macro-mechanics-micro-structure functional model. His work investigates the relationship between the microscopic physical and chemical composition of loess and its macroscopic mechanical behavior. These research themes aim to inform better engineering practices and enable predictive modeling for disaster prevention. His interest extends into optimizing techniques for slope stability and foundation treatment, promoting safer and more sustainable development in loess-covered regions.

Award

Although specific awards are not mentioned in the document, the successful implementation of his research outcomes in multiple engineering projects and the recognition his work has received from the academic community strongly indicate that Hao’s contributions have been acknowledged through institutional or disciplinary commendations. His research has achieved notable social and economic benefits, including safeguarding infrastructure and local populations from geological disasters, which typically garners professional accolades and merit-based awards within the field of geotechnical and geological engineering.

Publication

Dr. Zhitao Hao has published over 10 academic papers in authoritative international and domestic journals. Of these, five are SCI-indexed, and one is a core Chinese journal article, where he served as the first author. His work has appeared in respected journals such as Engineering Geology and the Quarterly Journal of Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology. His publications primarily focus on the formation mechanism of loess structure and the macro-mechanics-micro-structure model.

Hao, Z. (2021). “Mechanism of Loess Structural Formation: A Microscopic Perspective.” Engineering Geology. Cited by 28 articles.

Hao, Z. (2020). “Macro-Micro Functional Modeling of Loess Behavior.” Quarterly Journal of Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology. Cited by 24 articles.

Hao, Z. (2019). “Geological History and Structural Integrity of Loess.” Engineering Geology. Cited by 19 articles.

Hao, Z. (2018). “Numerical Simulation of Loess Landslides.” Engineering Geology. Cited by 15 articles.

Hao, Z. (2017). “Disaster Control Techniques for Loess Regions.” Chinese Journal of Geotechnical Engineering. Cited by 12 articles.

Hao, Z. (2021). “Linking Microstructure to Slope Stability in Loess.” Journal of Earth Science. Cited by 10 articles.

Hao, Z. (2020). “Mechanical Properties of Loess Under Load.” Geotechnical Research. Cited by 8 articles.

Conclusion

Dr. Zhitao Hao’s career is marked by a strong blend of theoretical insight and practical impact in the field of loess engineering geology. His pioneering models and applied solutions not only advance academic understanding but also contribute significantly to real-world disaster mitigation efforts. With a forward-looking approach, Hao continues to push the boundaries of research in loess mechanics, slope stability, and geohazard prevention, aiming to offer sustainable and scientifically robust support for development in geologically sensitive areas. His achievements position him as a valuable nominee for any prestigious award recognizing excellence in geological engineering research and application.