Dr. Alok Kumar is a distinguished geoscientist whose work has significantly advanced contemporary understanding of coal geology, organic petrology, and geochemical characterization across diverse sedimentary basins in India and worldwide. Renowned for his expertise in evaluating hydrocarbon generation potential, thermal maturity, paleoenvironmental conditions, and unconventional energy resources, he has built an impactful research portfolio that integrates advanced petrographic and geochemical techniques with innovative analytical approaches. His scholarly contributions encompass extensive studies on peat, lignite, coal, shale, and other organic-rich formations, offering valuable insights into depositional systems, paleoclimate reconstruction, and sustainable utilization pathways for energy resources. Dr. Kumar’s research influence extends across continents, supported by collaborations with international institutions and contributions to multi-disciplinary projects that bridge fundamental science with energy transition objectives. His prolific publication record in leading scientific journals reflects both the breadth and depth of his expertise, while his active involvement in international accreditation programs and professional societies underscores his commitment to maintaining rigorous scientific standards. He is also widely recognized for mentoring emerging researchers and training professionals in petrographic analysis, fostering capacity building within academic and industrial sectors. Beyond his research accomplishments, he has demonstrated leadership in scientific communication through conference presentations, editorial activities, and peer-review roles for high-impact journals. Dr. Kumar’s continued pursuit of excellence in organic petrology and geochemistry positions him as an influential figure contributing to global knowledge on carbon systems, clean energy prospects, and the geological processes governing organic matter transformation. His professional journey reflects a sustained dedication to advancing geoscience research that supports both academic progress and real-world applications in energy, environment, and resource management.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Sethy, S. N., Syed, T. H., Sinha, S., & Kumar, A. (2016). Hydrogeochemical characterization and quality assessment of groundwater in parts of Southern Gangetic Plain.

Sethy, S. N., Syed, T. H., & Kumar, A. (2017). Evaluation of groundwater quality in parts of the Southern Gangetic Plain using water quality indices.

Singh, A. K., Kumar, A., Singh, P. K., Singh, A. L., & Kumar, A. (2018). Bacterial desulphurization of low-rank coal: A case study of Eocene lignite of Western Rajasthan, India.

Kumar, A. (2020). Geochemical and organic petrographic characteristics of high bituminous shales from Gurha mine in Rajasthan, NW India

Kumar, A., Singh, A. K., Singh, P. K., Singh, A. L., Saikia, B. K., & Kumar, A. (2022). Desulfurization of Giral lignite of Rajasthan (Western India) using Burkholderia sp.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fangwen Chen is a distinguished scholar in Geology Resources and Geological Engineering, recognized for his influential contributions to the understanding of shale oil and shale gas systems through advanced characterization of pore structures, reservoir behavior, and storage mechanisms. His research integrates meticulous experimental analysis with innovative geological interpretation, enabling deeper insight into nanopore architectures, mineralogical influences, and adsorption phenomena that shape unconventional hydrocarbon reservoirs. He has produced a substantial body of peer-reviewed work that examines pore size distributions, reservoir connectivity, gas content characteristics, and the interplay of organic matter, minerals, and structural features across key formations such as the Wufeng, Longmaxi, and Raoyang Sag systems. Through studies published in leading journals, he has advanced methodologies for evaluating adsorbed methane, quantifying pore volumes, and classifying tight reservoir spaces, offering frameworks that enhance reservoir assessment and support the broader field of unconventional energy development. His scholarship also reflects a commitment to refining analytical techniques, including the integration of backscattered electron microscopy with complementary methods to improve microscopic pore characterization. Beyond his research contributions, he actively fosters academic growth in the discipline by sharing foundational and emerging concepts related to new energy, equipping learners with the analytical tools needed to understand evolving subsurface challenges. Supported by multiple competitive scientific grants, his work continues to shape contemporary thinking on shale reservoir evaluation, strengthening both theoretical foundations and applied strategies within the geosciences and contributing to the sustainable advancement of unconventional resource exploration.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

Wang, J., Gao, S., Duan, X., Li, W., Chen, F., Wang, Z., Liu, L., Zhang, P., Chen, G., Zhou, N., et al. (2026). Experimental and numerical simulation of dynamic fractionation for methane carbon isotope during shale gas depletion development.

Wang, J., Chen, F.-W., Li, W.-B., Lu, S.-F., Zhao, S.-X., Liu, Y.-Y., & Wang, Z.-Y. (2025). A multi-scale and multi-mechanism coupled model for carbon isotope fractionation of methane during shale gas production.

Hu, B., Li, X., Liu, J., Cai, Z., Liu, H., Xu, Y., & Chen, F. (2025). Hydrocarbon generation characteristics and geological significance of deep organic-rich shales in the Gulong Fault Depression, Songliao Basin, Northeastern China.

Chen, F., Qin, S., Ding, X., Pang, S., Wang, M., Yang, D., & Huang, Y. (2025). Imbibition characteristics and its influencing factors of shale gas reservoirs: A case study of the Longmaxi Shale in Southeast Chongqing.

Wang, H., Qiao, L., Zhang, J., Lu, S., Chen, F., Liu, Y., & Fu, Z. (2022). An effective integration optimization algorithm for regional fracturing design and drilling placement.