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
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.