Wente Niu | Petroleum Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Petroleum Engineering

Dr. Wente Niu | Petroleum Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Yanshan University | China

Dr. Wente Niu is a dedicated academic and researcher serving as a Lecturer at Yanshan University, with a strong foundation in petroleum engineering and artificial intelligence applications. He earned his PhD from the Institute of Porous Flow and Fluid Mechanics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, where his research explored advanced computational approaches for unconventional oil and gas development. With extensive contributions in AI-driven reservoir modeling, production forecasting, and digital twin technologies, he has positioned himself as an innovator bridging energy engineering with computer science. His expertise has directly contributed to improved reservoir characterization and efficient energy resource utilization.

Profile

Orcid

Education

Dr. Wente Niu completed his PhD at the Institute of Porous Flow and Fluid Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, specializing in fluid mechanics and subsurface flow. His academic path combined petroleum engineering fundamentals with cutting-edge computational science, enabling him to pioneer machine learning applications in reservoir engineering. His doctoral research focused on the development of AI-based models for unconventional oil and gas, providing a strong technical and theoretical background for future innovations. This foundation prepared him to explore cross-disciplinary research and teaching, while also strengthening collaborations with leading petroleum universities and industry research centers across China.

Experience

Dr. Wente Niu has significant academic and professional experience in petroleum engineering research and teaching. At Yanshan University, he lectures and supervises research integrating artificial intelligence with energy resource engineering. He has successfully completed eight research projects, including two at the national level, and currently leads projects on AI-driven reservoir simulations and digital twin development. He has collaborated with PetroChina and the China National Petroleum Corporation on industry-focused projects that apply AI to shale gas development. His experience spans reservoir characterization, machine learning frameworks, and consultancy, demonstrating his ability to link academic innovation with industrial problem-solving.

Research Interest

Dr. Wente Niu research lies at the intersection of geoscience, engineering, and computer science, with a focus on artificial intelligence applications in unconventional energy resource development. His primary interests include machine learning for subsurface characterization, production forecasting, and optimization in shale gas and tight oil reservoirs. He also explores digital core analysis and digital twin technologies to enhance reservoir simulation accuracy and efficiency. A core aspect of his work involves explainable AI frameworks that increase transparency in predictive modeling. His research advances data-driven methods that improve decision-making, accelerate computations, and promote sustainable resource recovery in petroleum engineering.

Award

Dr. Wente Niu is nominated for the Best Researcher Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to petroleum engineering research and the integration of artificial intelligence into reservoir engineering. His work has not only advanced academic knowledge but also delivered measurable benefits to the energy industry, particularly in collaboration with CNPC and PetroChina. His achievements demonstrate international recognition. His innovations in explainable AI, digital twin technology, and production optimization highlight his exceptional capability as a researcher and his potential to drive transformative progress in petroleum engineering.

Publication

Dr. Wente Niu has published widely in SCI/SCIE-indexed journals.

Title: Unsupervised Learning-Driven Insights into Shale Gas Reservoirs: Production Prediction and Strategic Applications
Year: 2025

Conclusion

Dr. Wente Niu exemplifies the qualities of an innovative and impactful petroleum engineering researcher. His interdisciplinary expertise bridges artificial intelligence, geoscience, and engineering, creating significant advancements in unconventional resource development. His contributions are recognized through impactful publications, patents, and collaborations with leading energy corporations. His ability to translate theoretical models into practical industry applications underscores his strength as a transformative scholar. With a proven record of research, teaching, and innovation, he stands as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, capable of shaping the future of petroleum engineering through cutting-edge AI-driven approaches.

Jianchun Xu | Petroleum Engineering | Best Unconventional Resource Development Award

Posted on by Petroleum Engineering

Prof. Jianchun Xu | Petroleum Engineering | Best Unconventional Resource Development Award

Professor at China University of Petroleum | East China | China

Prof. Jianchun Xu is a distinguished scholar in petroleum engineering, recognized for his pioneering research in reservoir simulation, unconventional oil and gas development, and smart oilfield technologies. Serving as a professor and deputy director at the China University of Petroleum (East China), he has made significant contributions to advancing multiphase flow modeling and production optimization. His leadership in academic societies and editorial boards reflects his commitment to the global research community. With an extensive publication record, funded projects, and international collaborations, Prof. Jianchun Xu work continues to shape petroleum engineering innovations and support sustainable energy development worldwide.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Prof. Jianchun Xu holds a Ph.D. in Oil and Gas Field Development Engineering from the China University of Petroleum (East China), where he also completed his M.S. and B.S. degrees in Petroleum Engineering. He enriched his academic background as a Visiting Scholar at the University of Tulsa under the supervision of Prof. Albert C. Reynolds, focusing on advanced petroleum engineering methods. His strong academic foundation has enabled him to integrate theory with practice, develop computational models, and lead international research collaborations that push the boundaries of reservoir management, unconventional resource exploitation, and innovative subsurface technologies.

Experience

Prof. Jianchun Xu currently serves as Deputy Director of the Intelligent Oil and Gas Field Institute and Professor of Petroleum Engineering at the China University of Petroleum (East China). His leadership roles extend to supervising major national and provincial research projects, collaborating with leading oilfield companies, and contributing to international scientific forums. He has organized specialized sessions in AGU, SPE, and Inter Pore conferences, advancing computational methods and machine learning applications in porous media. His professional service includes editorial roles in leading journals, guiding students, and developing simulation software that has been applied in academic research and field development.

Research Interest

Prof. Jianchun Xu research focuses on reservoir numerical simulation, unconventional oil and gas development, smart oilfield engineering, multiphase flow in porous media, and well testing. He is deeply engaged in developing advanced computational tools and algorithms, including machine learning techniques for optimization and simulation. His studies on CO₂ storage, gas hydrate development, and enhanced oil recovery contribute to sustainable and efficient resource exploitation. By bridging theoretical modeling with practical engineering applications, Prof. Jianchun Xu advances methods to optimize production, improve predictive accuracy, and address energy transition challenges, aligning petroleum engineering research with future demands of cleaner and smarter energy systems.

Awards

Prof. Jianchun Xu has received numerous prestigious awards, reflecting his academic excellence and professional dedication. These include the INSO Award, Excellent Headteacher Awards, Contribution Awards from the School of Petroleum Engineering, and the Xinjiang Petroleum Award. He was also recognized as an Outstanding Young Talent, a member of the Shandong Taishan Scholar Program, and an urgently needed high-level talent in Qingdao. Earlier in his career, he earned national scholarships, the Wang Tao Merit Scholarship—the highest petroleum industry award for graduate students—and several first prizes in national petroleum design competitions.

Publications

Prof. Jianchun Xu has published extensively in high-impact journals.

  1. Title: A generalized adsorption model of CO2-CH4 in shale based on the improved Langmuir model
    Year: 2025
    Citation: 7

  2. Title: Carbon Storage Potential of Shale Reservoirs Based on CO2 Fracturing Technology
    Year: 2025
    Citation: 4

  3. Title: Uncertainty analysis of geomechanical responses: China’s first offshore carbon capture and storage project Year: 2025
    Citation: 3

  4. Title: Reduced-Order Modeling for Subsurface Flow Simulation in Fractured Reservoirs
    Year: 2025
    Citation: 2

  5. Title: A machine learning assisted upscaling method for the Arrhenius kinetic model, with application to the in-situ conversion process
    Year: 2025
    Citation: 1

Conclusion

Prof. Jianchun Xu stands as a leading figure in petroleum engineering, with impactful contributions across reservoir simulation, unconventional resource development, and energy transition technologies. His strong academic foundation, leadership in research projects, and active role in professional societies highlight his commitment to advancing both science and education. Recognized through awards, publications, and industry collaborations, his work bridges innovative computational methods with practical oil and gas applications. With a vision toward sustainable and intelligent energy systems, Prof. Jianchun Xu continues to drive global research excellence, making him a highly deserving candidate for distinguished award recognition.

Tomasz Zieliński | Petroleum Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Posted 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.