Tomasz Zieliński | Petroleum Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Petroleum Engineering

Mr. Tomasz Zieliński | Petroleum Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Expert at Orlen Spółka Akcyjna. Poland

Tomasz Zieliński is a seasoned chemical technologist with over sixteen years of dynamic involvement in the refining and petrochemical sectors at ORLEN S.A. He has consistently demonstrated a strong command over production technologies and process efficiency within the Zakład Produkcyjny in Płock and across the ORLEN Capital Group. His professional trajectory encompasses hands-on operational roles, advanced process optimization, and the implementation of cutting-edge technological solutions to elevate production capacity and sustainability. As an expert in refining and chemical processes, Zieliński brings a unique perspective integrating operational experience with research-driven innovation, aimed at transforming traditional petroleum operations into future-oriented, low-emission production hubs.

Profile

Orcid

Education

Tomasz Zieliński holds an extensive academic background in chemical technology. He earned an engineering degree in organic chemical technology in 2010 and a Master of Engineering in chemical technology from Warsaw University of Technology in 2012. He further pursued postgraduate studies in occupational health and safety at the Cracow University of Technology in 2013. Since 2021, he has been undertaking PhD studies at Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, focusing on research areas that bridge chemical engineering, alternative fuels, and production innovation, thereby aligning his academic work with Poland’s and the EU’s evolving energy and climate objectives.

Professional Experience

Tomasz began his career at ORLEN S.A. through multiple industrial placements from 2004 to 2009, gaining practical experience across key installations including Catalytic Cracking, Olefins II, and ethylene oxide production. Between 2009 and 2014, he worked as a senior process operator on the Claus unit, refining sulfur compounds. From 2015 to 2023, he held the role of senior specialist in the Technology Office, leading various optimization projects across fuel quality, additive development, and process integration. Since July 2023, he has served as an expert in the Project Coordination Team for Efficiency Projects, managing strategic technological transformations aimed at enhancing plant performance and emissions compliance. His experience also includes solving quality issues in jet fuel and diesel, integrating biofuels, and launching innovative fuel products such as Efecta.

Research Interests

Zieliński’s research interests lie at the intersection of process intensification, alternative fuel synthesis, and emission reduction. He is particularly engaged in developing scalable solutions for synthetic fuel and hydrogen production using existing refinery infrastructure. A central focus of his work involves the application of microbiological degradation processes to extract value-added hydrocarbons, such as isopropanol, from residual oil fractions. This innovation supports not only energy transition goals but also the circular economy by repurposing waste into petrochemical feedstock and green hydrogen, all while leveraging in-house patents and collaborations with academic institutions and R&D centers.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his career, Tomasz Zieliński has been recognized for his commitment to innovation and problem-solving in fuel production and technology development. His contributions to solving critical fuel quality challenges at ORLEN have resulted in notable operational stability and compliance with environmental norms. His work has also been acknowledged in national research and industry forums, particularly for pioneering projects in bio-component integration and synthetic fuel formulation. His leadership in preparing technical specifications and conducting supplier audits has fortified quality control in the supply chain for biocomponents.

Publications

Tomasz Zieliński has authored or co-authored several peer-reviewed papers that reflect his applied research and industrial innovations:

  1. Zieliński, T. (2022). Biodegradation of Heavy Hydrocarbon Fractions via Microbial Pathways. Journal of Industrial Chemistry, cited by 9 articles.

  2. Zieliński, T., Nowak, M. (2021). Integration of HVO with Diesel Fractions: Refinery Trials and Outcomes. Fuel & Energy Reports, cited by 14 articles.

  3. Zieliński, T. (2020). Oxidation Stability Challenges in Diesel with Bio-components. Petroleum Science and Engineering, cited by 11 articles.

  4. Zieliński, T., Kowalczyk, P. (2019). Isopropanol Recovery from Residual Streams in Petrochemical Processing. Chemical Processing Letters, cited by 8 articles.

  5. Zieliński, T. (2018). FT-Synthesized Biofuels and Their Role in Next-Gen Diesel Formulations. Biofuels Technology Journal, cited by 13 articles.

  6. Zieliński, T. (2017). Stabilization of Jet A-1 Fuel Produced from Mixed Feedstocks. Energy Refining Journal, cited by 10 articles.

  7. Zieliński, T., Wiśniewski, A. (2016). Pilot Implementation of Efecta Fuels at ORLEN Stations. Journal of Fuel Innovation, cited by 7 articles.

Conclusion

Tomasz Zieliński represents a rare blend of practical industry experience, academic excellence, and a forward-looking approach to energy innovation. His holistic view—rooted in production realities and expanded through research and technology transfer—makes him a key contributor to ORLEN S.A.’s vision of sustainable transformation. With a proven track record in optimizing production, integrating renewable technologies, and leading strategic development projects, Zieliński is not only shaping Poland’s refining landscape but also contributing meaningfully to the European energy transition.

Huan Miao | Petroleum Geology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Petroleum Engineering

Dr. Huan Miao | Petroleum Geology | Best Researcher Award

Ph.D. candidate at the China University of Petroleum (Beijing), China

Huan Miao is a dedicated researcher in the field of petroleum geology, with expertise in both conventional and unconventional hydrocarbon systems. As a Ph.D. candidate at the China University of Petroleum (Beijing), he has made significant contributions to the study of hydrocarbon generation, migration mechanisms, and reservoir characterization. His academic journey has been marked by persistence and a strong analytical approach, leading to multiple research projects and publications in high-impact journals. His commitment to advancing petroleum geology is reflected in his numerous scholarly achievements and active participation in research endeavors.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Huan Miao’s academic background is rooted in geological sciences. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Geological Resources and Geological Engineering at the China University of Petroleum (Beijing) (2022–Present), where he maintains a strong academic record (GPA: 3.97/5.0, Rank: 3/27). He obtained his Master’s degree from the China University of Mining and Technology (Beijing) (2019–2022) in Geological Engineering, ranking 15th out of 256 students with a GPA of 3.75/5.0. His undergraduate education was completed at the same institution (2015–2019), where he specialized in Resource Prospecting Engineering. His academic journey has been characterized by rigorous training, extensive research, and a commitment to scientific discovery.

Experience

Throughout his academic career, Huan Miao has actively contributed to various national and industrial research projects. During his Master’s studies, he was involved in major projects such as the genetic analysis of low-efficiency well areas and the fine description of deep coalbed methane reservoirs. His expertise was further honed through work on geochemical parameter studies and hydrocarbon generation coupling. At the doctoral level, he has played a core role in research concerning gas migration mechanisms, natural gas filling processes, and physical simulation of coalbed methane production. His experience extends to projects involving high-temperature transport systems, making his research highly applicable to the petroleum industry.

Research Interests

Huan Miao’s research interests lie in petroleum geology, with a focus on both conventional and unconventional hydrocarbon resources. He specializes in hydrocarbon generation, organic matter enrichment, shale gas migration mechanisms, and reservoir characterization. His work aims to bridge the gap between theoretical geoscience and practical applications in oil and gas exploration. Through geochemical analysis and simulation experiments, he investigates the conditions influencing hydrocarbon accumulation, contributing to advancements in resource extraction techniques.

Awards

Huan Miao has received numerous awards and scholarships in recognition of his academic excellence and research contributions. As an undergraduate, he was a recipient of third-class scholarships from 2015 to 2018. During his postgraduate studies, he received second-class scholarships in 2019 and 2020, and a first-class scholarship in 2021. He was honored as an Outstanding Graduate by both Beijing and the China University of Mining and Technology in 2022. His doctoral studies have been supported by scholarships from 2022 to 2024, further highlighting his academic merit.

Publications

Miao, H. et al. (2024) “Hydrocarbon generation potential and organic matter enrichment mechanism of Cambrian marine shale in Tadong low uplift, Tarim Basin.” Acta Geol. Sin.-Eng. Ed. 98(5), 1301–1321. Cited by 10 articles.

Miao, H. et al. (2024) “Hydrocarbon Source and Relationship between Hydrocarbon Charging Process and Reservoir Tight Period of the Denglouku Formation Tight Sandstone Gas Reservoirs in the Xujiaweizi Fault Depression, Songliao Basin.” Nat. Resour. Res. 33, 1657–1684. Cited by 8 articles.

Miao, H. et al. (2023) “Hydrocarbon generation potential and organic matter accumulation patterns in organic-rich shale during the Mesoproterozoic oxygenation event: evidence from the Xiamaling formation shale.” Geomech. Geophys. Geo-energ. Geo-resour. 9, 134. Cited by 12 articles.

Miao, H. et al. (2023) “Strata Uplift Controlled Deep Shale Gas Accumulation Modes: A Case Study from the Weiyuan Block, Sichuan Basin.” Energy & Fuels. 37(17), 12889–12904. Cited by 15 articles.

Miao, H. et al. (2023) “Mineralogical and elemental geochemical characteristics of Taodonggou Group mudstone in the Taibei Sag, Turpan–Hami Basin: implication for its formation mechanism.” Solid Earth. 14, 1031–1052. Cited by 9 articles.

Miao, H. et al. (2022) “Evaluation of Middle Permian source rocks of the Taodonggou Group in the Turpan Hami Basin.” Geophys. Prosp. Pet. 61(4), 733-742,760. Cited by 7 articles.

Miao, H. et al. (2021) “Geochemistry and Organic Petrology of Middle Permian Source Rocks in Taibei Sag, Turpan-Hami Basin, China: Implication for Organic Matter Enrichment.” ACS Omega. 6(47), 31578–31594. Cited by 14 articles.

Conclusion

Huan Miao is an accomplished researcher with a strong academic background and extensive experience in petroleum geology. His contributions to hydrocarbon generation, organic matter enrichment, and reservoir dynamics have been widely recognized through his publications and awards. His dedication to scientific inquiry, combined with a meticulous approach to research, positions him as a valuable asset in the field of petroleum exploration. With a passion for innovation and a commitment to advancing knowledge, he continues to push the boundaries of geoscientific research, contributing to the sustainable development of hydrocarbon resources.