Hadi Belhaj | CCUS & Hydrogen Energy | Excellence in Reservoir Engineering Award

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Prof. Hadi Belhaj | CCUS & Hydrogen Energy | Excellence in Reservoir Engineering Award

Energy Eng. Professor at Khalifa University, United Arab Emirates

Dr. Hadi A. Belhaj is a globally recognized petroleum engineering scholar and industry consultant with over four decades of combined academic, research, and field experience. He currently serves as an Associate Professor at Khalifa University, UAE, where he leads pioneering research in unconventional reservoir development, enhanced oil recovery, and carbon capture technologies. His professional journey includes extensive contributions to reservoir engineering, geomechanics, and hydrogen energy, making him a distinguished figure in both academia and the oil and gas sector.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Belhaj earned his Ph.D. in Petroleum Engineering from Dalhousie University, Canada, focusing on matrix/fracture flow modeling in porous media. He holds an M.Sc. in Petroleum Engineering from the Technical University of Nova Scotia, where he investigated geopressure detection and evaluation. His foundational B.Sc. was obtained from the University of Tripoli (formerly El-Fateh University) in Libya, with a final-year project on decline-curve analysis. These degrees collectively laid the foundation for his expertise in reservoir dynamics and simulation.

Experience

Dr. Belhaj’s career spans positions in academia, consulting, and the petroleum industry. His hands-on fieldwork began with Dowell Schlumberger, followed by progressive roles at Libya’s National Oil Corporation, where he contributed to pioneering EOR studies and reservoir management strategies. His academic appointments at Texas Tech University and Khalifa University have allowed him to supervise high-impact research, lead curriculum development, and serve on multiple technical and editorial boards. Additionally, he has served as principal investigator on several multimillion-dollar funded projects tackling challenges like asphaltene deposition, slim-tube modeling, and capillary transition zones.

Research Interest

His research interests include reservoir characterization, unconventional reservoir development, carbon capture and storage (CCUS), hydrogen energy storage, porous media flow, EOR mechanisms, and geomechanics. He actively integrates artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance petroleum engineering decision-making. His recent work also explores caprock integrity and creep deformation for hydrogen underground storage, reflecting his focus on sustainable energy transitions.

Award

Dr. Belhaj has been honored with several prestigious awards, including the 2021 SPE International Distinguished Service Award, the 2020 and 2013 SPE Distinguished Achievement for Petroleum Engineering Faculty Awards, and the 2019 SPE Regional Reservoir Description and Dynamics Award. He has also received innovation recognitions such as the 2012 ADMA Innovation Award and various graduate scholarships during his academic tenure, underscoring both academic excellence and industry impact.

Publication

Among Dr. Belhaj’s notable publications are:

“Geoengineering of Hydrogen Energy” (Elsevier, in press, 2025) – cited in emerging CCUS reviews.
“Hydrogen underground storage potential in sandstone formation” (Fuel, 2025) – cited in U.S. DOE hydrogen repositories.
“Abiotic evaluation of geochemical reactions of sandstone minerals” (International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, 2025) – referenced in recent EU energy storage guidelines.
“Emerging advances in CO₂ storativity and trappability within shale reservoirs” (Energy Science and Engineering Journal, 2024).
“Workflow of the In Situ Combustion EOR Method in Venezuela” (ACS Omega, 2023).
“Standardization of Particle Size for Wettability Measurement” (ACS Omega, 2023).
“Hybrid Carbonated Engineered Water for Oil-Wet Carbonates” (Energies, 2022) – cited in SPE’s water-based EOR studies.

Conclusion

Dr. Hadi Belhaj exemplifies leadership, innovation, and service in petroleum engineering. His blend of industry acumen, academic rigor, and commitment to sustainable energy solutions makes him an outstanding nominee for this prestigious award. From mentoring future engineers to shaping global EOR practices, his legacy continues to drive transformative advancements in energy resource management.

J Arunprasad | Alternative Fuel | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Petroleum Engineering

Dr. J Arunprasad | Alternative Fuel | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Fellowship at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa

Dr. Arunprasad Jayaraman is a dedicated mechanical engineering researcher with a strong foundation in alternative fuels, tribology, and internal combustion engine studies. With a career spanning over a decade in academia and research, he is currently serving as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa. His career has been shaped by a commitment to sustainable energy technologies, evident from his intensive work in biofuels and nanoparticle-enhanced combustion systems. He has published extensively in high-impact journals and continues to influence the field of renewable energy through his innovative approaches to fuel optimization and emissions reduction.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Jayaraman earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Anna University in 2020, where his research concentrated on third-generation biofuels and the application of heterogeneous catalysts in internal combustion engines. He also holds a Master’s degree in CAD/CAM Engineering from Annai Mathammal Sheela Engineering College (2012) and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Dr. Navalar Nedunchezhian College of Engineering (2010), both affiliated with Anna University. His academic trajectory has equipped him with robust theoretical and practical insights into thermodynamics, tribology, and sustainable energy systems.

Experience

Beginning his academic career in 2012 as an Associate Professor at Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan Engineering College, Dr. Jayaraman devoted over a decade to teaching and research before moving into postdoctoral work in 2024. At the University of the Witwatersrand, he continues his exploration of nanomaterials in biodiesel and tribological analysis, leveraging advanced laboratory tools like the four-ball tribometer. His industry-aligned research and long-standing teaching experience underscore a career dedicated to bridging academia and practical energy solutions.

Research Interest

Dr. Jayaraman’s research spans renewable biofuels, internal combustion engine performance, emission analysis, and nanotechnology applications in fuels. His core focus lies in the development of third-generation biofuels from algae and the use of nanoadditives to enhance fuel properties and reduce engine wear. He is especially interested in the synergetic behavior of metal oxides and biodiesel in CI engines, aiming to reduce environmental impact while improving energy efficiency. His interdisciplinary work connects chemical engineering, environmental science, and mechanical design.

Award

In recognition of his academic and research excellence, Dr. Jayaraman received the Men of Educational Excellence Award from Global Icon and the International Star Book of Records. This honor reflects his impact in mechanical engineering education, contributions to innovative research, and commitment to sustainable energy development.

Publication

Dr. Jayaraman has authored 21 publications and accrued 146 citations, with an h-index of 7 and i10-index of 5. Select notable publications include:

  1. “Impact of diesel–Algae biodiesel–Anhydrous Ethanol blends on the performance of CI engines” – Journal of Cleaner Production, 2021, cited by 35 articles.

  2. “Performance and emissions of Chlorella vulgaris with ruthenium oxide in CI engines” – Fuel, 2022, cited by 28 articles.

  3. “Experimental Investigation of Spirulina Microalgae Biodiesel with Metal Nanoadditive on Single-Cylinder Diesel Engine” – Journal of Nanomaterials, 2022, cited by 19 articles.

  4. “Tribological behaviour of RuO2 in diesel: Benthic-diatom Navicula sp. algae biodiesel” – Indian Journal of Geo-Marine Sciences, 2020, cited by 11 articles.

  5. “Influence of Nano Additives on Performance and Emissions Characteristics of a Diesel Engine Fueled With Watermelon Methyl Ester” – Journal of Thermal Engineering, 2023, cited by 7 articles.

  6. “An investigation of characteristics of a diesel engine with low heat rejection fuelled by spirulina algae biodiesel” – Indian Journal of Chemical Technology, 2023, cited by 5 articles.

  7. “Tribological and environmental impact of silicon dioxide nanoparticles in algae biodiesel fuels for diesel engines” – Tribology-Materials, Surfaces & Interfaces, 2024, cited by 3 articles.

Conclusion

Dr. Arunprasad Jayaraman exemplifies academic excellence and innovative research in mechanical engineering, particularly within the domains of biofuels and engine emissions. His multidisciplinary expertise, combined with a clear vision for sustainable energy and environmental responsibility, makes him an ideal nominee for recognition. His contributions have advanced the understanding of renewable fuels and set a benchmark for integrating nanotechnology into practical engine solutions. Dr. Jayaraman’s career reflects a continuous trajectory of scholarly rigor, impactful publications, and meaningful industry applications.

Bashirul Haq | Hydrogen Storage | Sustainable Energy Practices in Petroleum Award

Published on by Petroleum Engineering

Dr. Bashirul Haq | Hydrogen Storage | Sustainable Energy Practices in Petroleum Award

Associate Professor at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Saudi Arabia

Dr. Bashirul Haq is a distinguished Associate Professor and seasoned researcher with over a decade of significant contributions in the field of petroleum engineering, with a specialized focus on underground hydrogen storage, hydrogen blending in gas networks, and green enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technologies. Renowned for his interdisciplinary approach, Dr. Haq has established a strong academic and research presence through his impactful collaborations, innovative methodologies, and leadership in both education and applied research. His work bridges the critical interface between sustainability and energy production, offering practical solutions to complex engineering challenges.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Haq’s academic foundation is rooted in a commitment to scientific excellence. He holds a Ph.D. in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Western Australia (2013), where his doctoral research addressed the role of green surfactants in microbial enhanced oil recovery—pioneering a sustainable approach to conventional energy production. He earned both his Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering and Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, where he specialized in reservoir studies and hydrogen production via steam reforming. These qualifications laid a strong foundation for his continued academic innovation and research leadership.

Experience

With an academic career spanning over 15 years, Dr. Haq currently serves as Assistant Professor at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, where he leads several major research initiatives funded by Saudi Aramco and the Centre for Advanced Materials. Prior to this, he held teaching and research positions at Edith Cowan University, The University of Western Australia, and Curtin University. He has demonstrated excellence in course development, thesis supervision, and inter-institutional collaboration. His research portfolio includes cutting-edge projects on underground hydrogen storage, corrosion mitigation in H₂-blended gas pipelines, CO₂ utilization, and predictive well health monitoring systems. His earlier consultancy roles with Chevron and APA Group further reflect his applied expertise in production diagnostics and reservoir engineering.

Research Interest

Dr. Haq’s research interests are defined by the convergence of sustainability and energy innovation. His investigations into underground hydrogen storage consider the petrophysical, mechanical, and microbial interactions within subsurface reservoirs, while his work in hydrogen blending focuses on optimizing pipeline safety and material integrity in mixed-gas environments. Equally noteworthy is his contribution to green EOR through nanotechnology-enabled biosurfactants and carbon materials derived from organic waste, which advance both environmental goals and production efficiency. His research has had a lasting impact on the development of safer, cleaner, and more efficient hydrocarbon and hydrogen energy systems.

Award

Dr. Haq has been the recipient of several prestigious research grants and accolades. He was awarded over SAR 3.8 million in research funding by Saudi Aramco and associated institutions between 2020 and 2023, supporting high-impact projects on hydrogen storage and green EOR. He is the co-inventor of a U.S. patent titled “Oil Recovery Methods Using Carboxylated Pyrolyzed Date Leaves” (US10836952), which proposes a novel, environmentally friendly approach to oil recovery. He also received the CSIRO–University Postgraduate Scholarship in Australia and was nominated for the UWA Faculty Teaching Award for Outstanding Contribution in 2011. These accolades underscore his scientific innovation and commitment to academic excellence.

Publication

Dr. Haq is a prolific author with a strong publication record in high-impact journals. Selected peer-reviewed articles include:

  1. “A Review On Worldwide Underground Hydrogen Storage Operating And Potential Fields”, International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, 2022 – cited in studies of emerging hydrogen infrastructure.

  2. “Naturally Derived Carbon Material for Hydrogen Storage”, APPEA Journal, 2022 – contributed to sustainable hydrogen materials research.

  3. “Date-Leaf Carbon Particles for Green Enhanced Oil Recovery”, Nanomaterials, 2022 – referenced in green EOR studies.

  4. “Surfactant Formulation for Green Enhanced Oil Recovery”, Energy Reports, 2022 – utilized in comparative surfactant evaluations.

  5. “Green Enhanced Oil Recovery for Carbonates”, Polymers, 2021 – cited for carbonate reservoir applications.

  6. “Comparative Study of Green and Synthetic Polymers for Enhanced Oil Recovery”, Polymers, 2020 – frequently referenced in polymer EOR research.

  7. “Modification of Eclipse Simulator for Microbial Enhanced Oil Recovery (MEOR)”, Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology, 2019 – instrumental in MEOR simulation enhancements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Bashirul Haq represents a model of excellence in academic leadership, scientific research, and innovation in sustainable energy technologies. His career achievements reflect a dedication to bridging research with industry needs and environmental responsibility. Through pioneering efforts in hydrogen storage, EOR, and curriculum development, he continues to influence the global energy discourse and mentor the next generation of engineers. Dr. Haq’s nomination for this award is a recognition of both his past achievements and his ongoing contributions to a sustainable energy future.

Mohammadali Ahmadi | Enhanced Oil Recovery | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Petroleum Engineering

Prof. Mohammadali Ahmadi | Enhanced Oil Recovery | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at University of Technology (SUT), Iran

Dr. Mohammadali Ahmadi is a highly accomplished researcher and academic currently affiliated with the University of Calgary and the Petroleum University of Technology. With a research career spanning over a decade, Dr. Ahmadi has made significant contributions to the fields of petroleum engineering, energy systems, and molecular simulation. His innovative work focuses on improving recovery processes in heavy oil reservoirs, enhancing surfactant applications, and applying molecular dynamics and machine learning to address complex challenges in oil and gas systems. With over 185 publications and more than 8,400 citations, his research has not only advanced scientific understanding but also shaped practical applications in energy engineering and sustainable resource development.

Profile

Orcid

Education

Dr. Ahmadi’s academic foundation is rooted in petroleum engineering, where he earned his advanced degrees specializing in enhanced oil recovery and chemical engineering techniques. His rigorous academic training laid the groundwork for a prolific research trajectory, allowing him to merge fundamental scientific inquiry with industrially relevant challenges. Throughout his education, he cultivated expertise in computational modeling, reservoir simulation, and surfactant-fluid interactions, preparing him for an influential career in both academia and the energy sector.

Experience

Over the years, Dr. Ahmadi has held research and teaching roles that bridge academia and industry. His dual affiliation with the University of Calgary and the Petroleum University of Technology highlights his global influence and collaborative research ethos. He has independently led numerous projects that focus on oil recovery, nanoconfinement effects, interfacial science, and chemical processes in porous media. His hands-on experience spans experimental design, simulation modeling, and the application of artificial intelligence in reservoir characterization. Beyond research, Dr. Ahmadi has mentored graduate students, developed university curricula, and contributed as a reviewer for top-tier scientific journals.

Research Interest

Dr. Ahmadi’s research interests revolve around enhanced oil recovery (EOR), nanoconfinement phenomena, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and the environmental optimization of hydrocarbon production. He is particularly focused on the role of surfactants in emulsification-demulsification processes and their molecular behavior in subsurface environments. Other core interests include CO₂ sequestration, steam-surfactant co-injection, and machine learning applications in petroleum systems. His interdisciplinary approach—blending chemical engineering, geomechanics, and data science—enables him to address both theoretical and practical problems in energy sustainability.

Awards

Dr. Ahmadi has received several accolades in recognition of his groundbreaking research and scholarly contributions. His high citation count, an H-index of 60, and frequent collaboration with leading scientists highlight his standing in the scientific community. While specific award names are not detailed in the public record, his sustained publication in high-impact journals and the adoption of his findings in patent literature underscore his influence and merit for prestigious academic honors.

Publications

Among his extensive portfolio of over 180 works, several stand out for their impact and citation frequency.

His 2022 article, “Molecular dynamics simulation of oil detachment from hydrophobic quartz surfaces during steam-surfactant Co-injection” in Energy (cited 32 times), provides insights into recovery processes at the nanoscale. Another highly cited work, “Comprehensive review of the interfacial behavior of water/oil/surfactant systems using dissipative particle dynamics simulation,” published in Advances in Colloid and Interface Science (2022), has received 37 citations.

His 2021 paper in Fuel on surfactant-asphaltene interactions has been cited 72 times, reflecting its foundational contribution. The 2020 study in Energy & Fuels titled “Insight into the Interfacial Behavior of Surfactants and Asphaltenes” has been cited 58 times.

His 2021 article in Petroleum comparing permeability estimation methods has attracted 139 citations, showcasing his impact on reservoir engineering. “Challenges and future of chemical assisted heavy oil recovery processes,” published in 2020 in Advances in Colloid and Interface Science, is another well-cited piece with 104 references.

Lastly, his 2020 Symmetry publication on surfactant-asphaltene interactions in hydrocarbon solvents has been cited 44 times, reinforcing his expertise in interfacial behavior.

Conclusion

Dr. Mohammadali Ahmadi stands as a leading figure in the field of petroleum engineering and energy science. His ability to tackle intricate challenges using computational tools and experimental insights has not only enriched academic literature but also provided viable solutions for the energy industry. With a remarkable blend of scientific rigor, technical innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Ahmadi continues to shape the future of enhanced oil recovery and sustainable energy processes. His qualifications, productivity, and scholarly excellence make him an outstanding candidate for any distinguished award in engineering and applied science.