Engineer at Shaanxi Institute of Geological Survey, China
Tingting Ke is a geothermal energy specialist whose career blends rigorous academic training with practical engineering application. With a PhD focused on geothermal resource potential assessment, she has contributed significantly to China’s geothermal development, particularly in sedimentary basins and karst reservoirs. Her work spans thermal modeling, lithospheric heat flow analysis, and geothermal exploitation simulations. Currently an engineer at the Shaanxi Institute of Geological Survey, she is known for integrating spatial data techniques into geothermal evaluation. Through field studies and multi-national conference presentations, she promotes sustainable energy strategies and advances scientific understanding in geological thermal systems.
Profile
Scopus
Education
Her educational journey began with a Bachelor’s in Environmental Engineering, followed by a Master’s and then a PhD from Xi’an Jiaotong University. Her graduate studies focused intensively on geothermal resource exploitation and heat transfer modeling. During her doctorate (2017–2022), she led research on geothermal potential using spatial data integration. Her academic work laid the foundation for her application-based innovations, combining deep theoretical insight with geological survey practices. The rigorous training in numerical simulation, heat flow assessment, and environmental analysis equipped her with a multi-disciplinary edge in geothermal resource development across diverse geological environments in China.
Experience
Since 2022, Ke has served as an engineer at the Geothermal Resources and Geological Environment Survey Institute within the Shaanxi Institute of Geological Survey. Her responsibilities include conducting geothermal feasibility studies, modeling reservoir behavior, and evaluating lithospheric thermal structures. She has contributed to major national and provincial research programs, including heat flow mapping in the Erlian Basin and geothermal system analysis in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Bay Area. She also leads a youth project on karst reservoir development in the Guanzhong Basin. Her project leadership and collaborative field expertise underscore her growing influence in China’s renewable energy sector.
Research Interest
Ke’s research interests lie at the intersection of geothermal potential assessment, multi-doublet performance modeling, and lithospheric heat source analysis. She explores how geological structures influence thermal distribution and reservoir sustainability. Her fascination with karst systems and hot sedimentary aquifers drives her to develop advanced simulation tools for predicting extraction performance. She also emphasizes the use of integrated spatial data and economic analysis to evaluate feasibility. Her long-term goal is to create comprehensive geothermal evaluation systems that blend geological science, environmental engineering, and energy economics—especially within rapidly urbanizing zones like Xiong’an and Xi’an.
Awards
In recognition of her growing expertise and leadership, Ke was appointed Principal Investigator for a Youth General Project under the Shaanxi Provincial Department of Science and Technology in 2024. This honor underscores her capability to lead research on karst geothermal reservoirs. She has participated in multiple high-profile grants through the National Natural Science Foundation of China and regional geological exploration programs. Her presentations at global geothermal and environmental sustainability conferences, including the IUGG General Assembly and the ISCES forum, have earned widespread praise and solidified her presence as an emerging leader in geothermal science.
Publications
Among her noteworthy scientific contributions:
Ke, T.T., Xu, W., Yu, R.Y., Zhou, Y., Zhang, Y.G., 2025. Evaluation of geothermal resource potential based on spatial data integration models: case study of Xiong’an New Area, North China.
Ke, T.T., Huang, S.P., Xu, W., Tang, X.Y., Li, X.X., 2022. Evaluation of the multi-doublet performance in sandstone reservoirs using thermal-hydraulic modeling and economic analysis.
Ke, T.T., Huang, S.P., Xu, W., Li, X.X., 2021. Study on heat extraction performance of multiple-doublet system in Hot Sedimentary Aquifers: Case study from the Xianyang geothermal field, Northwest China.
Ke, T.T., Huang, S.P., Xu, W., Numerical simulation of geothermal well production and injection Development Model in Fengxi Area, Guanzhong Basin Quaternary Research
Xu, W., Li, Y., Zhou, L.M., Ke, T.T., et al., 2020. Lithospheric thermal regime under the Qinling Orogenic Belt and the Weihe Basin: A transect across the Yangtze and the North China cratons in central China.
Xu, W., Huang, S.P., Zhang, J., Zuo, Y.H., Zhou, Y.S., Ke, T.T., et al., 2021. Geothermal gradient and heat flow of the Erlian Basin and adjacent areas, Northern China: Geodynamic implication.
Xu, W., Tang, X.Y., Cheng, L.Y., Dong, Y., Zhang, Y.P., Ke, T.T. , et al., 2022. Heat Flow and Thermal Source of the Xi’an Depression, Weihe Basin, Central China. Frontiers in Earth Science
Conclusion
Tingting Ke exemplifies the dynamic fusion of academic rigor, field research, and strategic geothermal application. Her progression from student researcher to engineering lead has equipped her to tackle critical challenges in renewable energy. Her contributions to geothermal science—spanning simulation modeling, basin heat flow studies, and international knowledge exchange—position her as a transformative figure in China’s clean energy landscape. As an innovator grounded in data-driven methods and cross-disciplinary collaboration, she continues to push boundaries in geothermal system development and serves as a role model for emerging scientists in the field.