Connections Newsletter
The UH Energy Connections Newsletter features and recognizes faculty and students for notable achievements in research, education, innovation and outreach.
To receive the Connections Newsletter please JOIN OUR MAILING LIST
Features - August 2021
Geology Graduate Wins 2021 AAPG Jules Braunstein Memorial Award
By Rebeca Trejo
The American Association of Petroleum Geologists awarded the University of Houston’s Michael Fonseca, Lori Hathon and Tom Lapen the Jules Braunstein Memorial Award. It recognizes the best poster session paper presented at the association’s Annual Convention and Exhibition the previous year.
READ FULL ARTICLE
AMPing Up Delivery of Superconducting Wires
By: Laurie Fickman
Superconductivity, where electrical resistance vanishes, remains a technology that both powers science and mystifies scientists. It charges MRI scanners, enables new drug discovery through advanced spectroscopy machines, and is used to create the kind of powerful magnets that help smash atoms as scientists work to uncover how the universe is made and how it works.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Understanding the ERCOT Grid Failure
By Cory Thaxton
Winter Storm Uri caused chaos all over the state of Texas. Houston, and its surrounding cities, saw the worst of it. Hundreds of people lost their lives and there are billions of dollars worth of damages. Still, neither Houston nor the state knows the full impact that the February 2021 winter storm and the resulting grid failure will have on the economy.
READ FULL ARTICLE
How Power Flows To Your Houston Home — And Why It Failed To Do So During The Winter Freeze
By Kyra Buckley
The deadly winter freeze gave many Texans a glimpse into how complicated – and in many ways, vulnerable – the state’s electricity system is. Half a year later many Houstonians are still figuring out what parts of that system actually failed.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - July 2021
Lars Grabow - Engineering Dynamic Solutions
By Nicole Johnson
Distinguished researcher and chemistry professor Lars Grabow is about to change the game. Having received significant financial backing from the U.S. Department of Energy, Grabow is working to revolutionize processes within the carbon fiber industry, leading to more cost-effective and safer products for us. Here’s how.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Huang's Industrial Expertise Joining Cullen College Of Engineering
By: Stephen Greenwell
With decades of expertise in aviation industry and electrification, Dr. Hao Huang joins the Cullen College of Engineering as its newest faculty member. Huang is tasked with preparing the next generation of UH Engineering students for the next revolution in aerospace – a challenge he’s more than ready to undertake.
READ FULL ARTICLE
John Hofmeister: A Visionary Who Called For A More Inclusive, Less Insular Energy Industry
By Loren Steffy
A pragmatic and unique thinker, the late John Hofmeister became one of Houston’s top energy and business leaders thanks to unconventional yet thought-provoking insight into the industry. Here, UH Energy Scholar Loren Steffy pens a heartfelt recollection of Hofmeister’s impact on the energy world as an executive and visionary.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Subsurface Geophysics is Key to Geological Carbon Dioxide Storage
By Nicole Johnson
The date is set. According to not only the Paris Agreement but also with support from the city of Houston, 196 participating countries – including the United States, must meet a net-zero carbon emission goal by 2050. With Houston already the energy capital of the world, it is no surprise that the city is positioning itself as the up-and-coming carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) hub of the U.S. Reaching the target means not only pushing green energy, but also supporting more energy efficient, sustainable and environmentally conscious fossil fuels.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Hobby School Accolades
By The Hobby School of Public Affairs
Center for Public Policy Director Pablo Pinto, Promoted to Full Professor. Pinto started with the Hobby School in 2017 after serving as associate professor in the UH Department of Political Science since 2014, and as associate professor of political science at Columbia University in New York City, which he joined in 2004.
Senior Director Renée Cross receives League of Women Voters-Houston Award. Her contributions to Texas and Houston politics, civic engagement, public service and mentoring the next generation of community leaders are the Hobby School’s Renée Cross’ lasting legacy.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - June | July 2021
Reliability and the Texas Power Grid in the Aftermath of Winter Storm Uri
By Gail Buttorff, Ramanan Krishnamoorti, Pablo M. Pinto, Sunny M.C. Wong
During the third week of February, Winter Storm Uri brought freezing temperatures to the state of Texas. Unprepared and unequipped to handle the extreme weather, power generators failed to meet the higher demand from Texans trying to keep warm.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Climate Change and Carbon Management: Has the US Transcended Partisanship?
By Gail Buttorff, Francisco Cantu, Ramanan Krishnamoorti, Pablo M. Pinto
As scientific evidence quantified the increased rate of climate change in the last 50 years, this poignant topic pushed to the forefront of political policy and subsequently emerged as a source of partisan dissent in the U.S. Original questions pertaining to the validity of climate change are no longer under scrutiny, but instead transitioned to what can be done to mitigate climate change.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Looking Objectively at Energy Solutions
By Sarah F. Hill
The Texas grid outage of 2021 prompted many difficult questions. Why did Texas lose power, and why for so long? Were we not prepared? Were greedy market participants trying to make money in the wake of unfortunate circumstances? And perhaps most importantly, would this happen again? Looming over these uncertain times is the question of whether or not we can transition to a future with a smaller carbon footprint. Our region is positioned as a leader in this quest for cleaner, more efficient and environmental-friendly energy going forward.
READ FULL ARTICLE
2021 Energy Career Fair
By UH Energy, The Energy Coalition and University Career Services
Whether you’re a decision maker or one of the top up-and-coming talents within the Energy Capital of the World, the UH Energy Career Fair is your chance to make your mark on the future. A collaboration between UH Energy, the UH Energy Coalition and University Career Services, this event brings together the movers and shakers of the energy industry – fossil fuels, nuclear power, non-profits or anything in between – with some of the Powerhouse’s sharpest young minds to further grow the industry. With a wide variety of participating organizations, students from all majors are invited to attend the career fair to network toward exceptional opportunities within the energy sector. Register today!
MORE INFORMATION
Features - February 2021
Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage – Lynchpin for the Energy Transition White Paper
By UH Energy in collaboration with the Gutierrez Energy Management Institute and the Center for Houston’s Future
The energy transition will require a number of new technologies, none more critical than the broad commercial deployment of carbon capture, utilization and storage, or CCUS. The ability to decarbonize the existing energy value chains in the oil and gas, petrochemical and electric power industries is essential both to immediately impact emissions and to create a commercially sound pathway to a sustainable energy future.
READ WHITE PAPER
Energy Advisory Board Spotlight: Clay Neff
By Janet Miranda
Clay Neff, president of Chevron Middle East, Africa, South America Exploration and Production, sat down with UH Energy for a conversation about his start in the energy industry, his role on the Energy Advisory Board and his advice for students who want to join the energy sector during difficult times for the industry.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Forbes Blog - Renewables Debate Is Just A Sideshow Amid Epic Texas Power Failure
By Emily Pickrell
Just like there are no atheists in foxholes, it is doubtful that many Texans pride themselves on anti-federalism in a house that’s lost heat and electricity when it’s 4 degrees outside. Rick Perry, former U.S. energy secretary and ex-governor of Texas, prides himself on exactly that.
READ FULL ARTICLE
New Catalyst Moves Seawater Desalination, Hydrogen Production Closer to Commercialization
By Jeannie Kever
Seawater makes up about 96% of all water on earth, making it a tempting resource to meet the world’s growing need for clean drinking water and carbon-free energy. And scientists already have the technical ability to both desalinate seawater and split it to produce hydrogen, which is in demand as a source of clean energy.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - January 2021
Energy Advisory Board Spotlight: Keith Mosing
By Janet Miranda
Keith Mosing is currently the Chairman, CEO and President of the Mosing Group as well the owner and CEO of Katy Nissan. Mosing Group previously owned Western Airways, Inc. where he was the Chairman and CEO.
READ FULL ARTICLE
University of Houston Receives Licensing Executive Society’s 2020 Deal of Distinction in CEEM Sector
By Rebeca Trejo
The University of Houston’s Low Frequency Seismic Technologies Consortium was awarded the Licensing Executive Society’s 2020 Deal of Distinction in the Chemicals, Energy, Environment, and Materials Sector.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Forbes Blog - Oil And Gas Industry Must Get Serious About Climate Change To Compete For Millennial And Gen Z Workforce
By Emily Pickrell
Younger Americans are the most adamant about their belief that climate change is real. More than 87% of those between 30 and 45 acknowledge that climate change is happening, according to a recent survey conducted by the University of Houston, almost 10 points higher than for people who are 45 and older.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Forbes Blog - Carbon Management In 2021
By Emily Pickrell
If 2020 marked the year that the U.S. formally left the Paris Agreement, 2021 could well be the year it starts to get serious about climate action. The time is ripe: an international pandemic has raised awareness about our independency, while incoming President Joe Biden has called climate change action a top priority.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - December 2020
Energy Advisory Board Spotlight: Greg Leveille
By Janet Miranda
Greg Leveille, chief technology officer for ConocoPhillips, sat down with UH Energy for a conversation about his start in the energy industry, his role on the Energy Advisory Board and his advice for students.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Subsea Systems Institute Receives $9.5 Million for Research, Economic Development
By Jeannie Kever
A national research center focused on offshore energy has received $9.5 million for workforce training and to develop new technologies and practices that can improve the safety and sustainability of the offshore industry.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Discoveries Highlight New Possibilities for Magnesium Batteries
By Jeannie Kever
Magnesium batteries have long been considered a potentially safer and less expensive alternative to lithium-ion batteries, but previous versions have been severely limited in the power they delivered.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - October 2020
Energy Advisory Board Spotlight - Andy Krieger
By Janet Miranda
Andy Krieger, senior vice president of wells for BP Global Wells Organization, sat down with UH Energy for a conversation about his start in the energy industry, his role on the Energy Advisory Board and his advice for students.
READ FULL ARTICLE
UH Law and Center for Carbon Management in Energy Create Summer Fellowship Program
By Janet Miranda
A group of six law students and recent UH graduates participated in a six-week summer fellowship, where they researched various topics in energy law for the Center for Carbon Management in Energy.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Professor of Subsea Engineering Recognized as Distinguished Member by Society of Petroleum Engineers
By Janet Miranda
The Society of Petroleum Engineers recently named Phaneendra Kondapi, a professor of subsea engineering, assistant dean of engineering programs at UH Katy and former director of Subsea Engineering, as a Distinguished Member. The accolade is the second-highest distinction offered by the society, recognizing members who have made significant contributions to the industry.
READ FULL ARTICLE
UH researchers asked to provide second opinion to Brazilian petrochemical company Braskem
By Janet Miranda
A team of University of Houston geophysicists analyzed subsidence and seismic activity in and around the Brazilian coastal city of Maceió as part of a project for Braskem, a major petrochemical company in the South American nation.
READ FULL ARTICLE
UH Announces Funding for Carbon Management Projects
By Janet Miranda
The Center for Carbon Management in Energy at the University of Houston has awarded $275,000 in research funding for projects focused on carbon management and the energy transition. The projects cover a range of projects, from converting carbon to fuel and other useful products to a proposed new wireless monitoring system for carbon capture storage.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - August 2020
Energy Coalition Spotlight: Chair Makpal Sariyeva Highlights Initiatives for New Academic Year
By Janet Miranda
The Energy Coalition welcomes a new board of student directors. Chair Makpal Sariyeva shares her vision for the new academic year amid COVID-19 and other industry challenges.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Energy Advisory Board Spotlight: Kevin Mitchell
By Janet Miranda
Kevin Mitchell, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Phillips 66, sat down with UH Energy for a conversation about his start in the energy industry, his role on the Energy Advisory Board and his advice for students who want to join the energy sector during difficult times for the industry.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Summer Research Opportunities for Students Promise Great Impact for Low Carbon Energy
By Janet Miranda
UH Energy and C.T. Bauer College of Business along with the Center for Houston’s Future has teamed up to create new research initiatives for students this summer amid the COVID-19 internship cancellations. The new low carbon energy research aims to provide a framework for the necessary infrastructure for implementation.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - July 2020
UH Society of Petroleum Engineers Wins Student Chapter Excellence Award
By Janet Miranda
The University of Houston chapter of the Society of Petroleum Engineers won its first Student Chapter Excellence Award for the 2019-20 academic year. The 34-member board coordinated and planned an ambitious student involvement strategy, which yielded 86 successful events and six awards.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Energy Advisory Board Spotlight: Alex Juden
By Janet Miranda
Alex Juden, secretary and general counsel at Schlumberger Limited, sat down with UH Energy for a conversation about his start in the energy industry, his role on the Energy Advisory Board and his advice for students who want to join the energy sector during difficult times for the industry.
READ FULL ARTICLE
A Roadmap to Better Multivalent Batteries
By Jeannie Kever
Lithium-ion batteries are recognized for their high energy density in everything from mobile phones to laptop computers and electric vehicles, but as the need for grid-scale energy storage and other applications becomes more pressing, researchers have sought less expensive and more readily available alternatives to lithium.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - June 2020
Return to Work at the Office? Energy Workers Say 'Not So Fast'
By Jeannie Kever
As Texas and other states begin to reopen retail and other businesses, workers who have been working from home – for some, for seven weeks or longer – face the prospect of returning to corporate offices and business workplaces. A study of the energy workforce released Thursday found that more than 70% of workers prefer to continue working remotely.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Energy Advisory Board Spotlight: Joseph Mills
By Janet Miranda
Joseph Mills, president and chief executive officer of Samson Resources II, LLC, sat down with UH Energy for a conversation about the outlook for the energy industry, his role on the Energy Advisory Board, and his tips for students who want to join the energy sector during the downturn.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Petroleum Engineering Alum Named As One Of TWA's Energy Influencers
By Stephen Greenwell
Dr. Pushpesh Sharma, a May 2019 graduate from the University of Houston's chemical engineering and petroleum engineering programs, has earned distinction for his work as a doctoral student and with the start-up Inveniam Asset Management by being named one of The Way Ahead's 2020 Energy Influencers.
READ FULL ARTICLE
New Material, Modeling Methods Promise Advances in Energy Storage
By Jeannie Kever
The explosion of mobile electronic devices, electric vehicles, drones and other technologies have driven demand for new lightweight materials that can provide the power to operate them. Researchers from the University of Houston and Texas A&M University have reported a structural supercapacitor electrode made from reduced graphene oxide and aramid nanofiber that is stronger and more versatile than conventional carbon-based electrodes.
READ FULL ARTICLE
TC Energy Summer Scholars Academy Empowers Incoming UH STEM Majors
By Kathy Major
The University of Houston is proud to announce a partnership between TC Energy and the University of Houston’s College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (NSM) to help high school students interested in science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) majors prepare for the transition to college.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - May 2020
UH Energy offers new Engineering Ethics 2020 Online Course
By Alan Rossiter
The Consortium for Energy Corporate Social Responsibility (CECSR) hosted a daylong workshop on Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance, known as ESG in the energy sector. The workshop featured ESG energy experts, panels and workshop case studies exploring how to navigate this new arena.
LEARN MORE
Energy Advisory Board Spotlight: Scott Nyquist
By Janet Miranda
Scott Nyquist, Senior Partner at McKinsey & Company, sat down with UH Energy for a conversation about his career in the energy world, his role on the Energy Advisory Board, and the future of the energy industry for students interested in pursuing an energy career.
READ FULL ARTICLE
UH Engineer Honored For Work in Crystal Engineering
By Jeannie Kever
An engineer from the University of Houston has received the state’s top honor in engineering for his pioneering discoveries about how crystals form and how they can be dissolved. Jeffrey Rimer, Abraham E. Dukler Professor of Chemical Engineering at UH, has received the 2020 Edith and Peter O’Donnell Award in Engineering from The Academy of Medicine, Engineering and Science of Texas, known as TAMEST.
READ FULL ARTICLE
University of Houston’s Center for Carbon Management in Energy Introduces Webinar Series
By Janet Miranda
The University of Houston’s Center for Carbon Management in Energy (CCME) announced its webinar series, which began April 2, to address key topical areas and issues facing the energy industry during this unprecedented time. The six-part series ended in early May and was designed to continue communication and interaction with the energy industry. Topics ranged from legal and business policy to transformative technologies, along with the impact the coronavirus has had on the energy industry.
READ FULL ARTICLE
UH Energy hosts webinar for students about navigating the future energy industry
By Janet Miranda
UH Energy hosted a student-focused webinar on the current outlook for the energy industry and provided tips for students who want to enter the industry. The webinar, "Future Energy Outlook and Desired Workforce Skillsets for Students," was livestreamed and included energy experts who provided advice and answered questions. The panel included Scott Nyquist, director and senior partner at McKinsey & Company; Bill Maloney, director of Trident Energy and energy advisor for Warburg Pincus; and Cindy Yeilding, senior vice president at BP.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - April 2020
The Consortium for Energy Corporate Social Responsibility Hosts ESG workshop
By Janet Miranda
The Consortium for Energy Corporate Social Responsibility (CECSR) hosted a daylong workshop on Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance, known as ESG in the energy sector. The workshop featured ESG energy experts, panels and workshop case studies exploring how to navigate this new arena.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Energy summer course ready to enroll students amid remote academic instruction for summer session
By Janet Miranda
“Energy, Society and the Middle East” is a 4-week online course that blends social sciences with technical concepts, providing technical students with a cultural context while exploring the future of the region. The course, taught by associate professor and Middle Eastern Studies program director Emran El-Badawi, has begun enrollment for the upcoming 2020 summer session II, amid the move to remote instruction due to the coronavirus pandemic.
READ FULL ARTICLE
UH Team Places Second in 2020 Gulf Coast Section of AAPG’s Imperial Barrel Award Competition
By Jeannie Kever
Under the leadership of team captain Maddie Bishop, the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences’ Imperial Barrel Award (IBA) team placed second at the annual American Association of Petroleum Geologists IBA Competition for the Gulf Coast Section. The five-member team consisted of graduate students in geology and geophysics, including Bishop (M.S.), Mei Liu (Ph.D.), Michael Fonseca (M.S.), Ben Miller (M.S.) and senior undergraduate student Brook Runyon.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Energy Advisory Board Spotlight - William Maloney
By Janet Miranda
William “Bill” Maloney is on the board of directors of Trident Energy, ATX Energy and serves as an energy advisor to Warburg Pincus. Before that, he was executive vice president at Equinor, which was then known as Statoil, retiring in 2015. In that capacity he played a key role on Statoil’s Corporate Executive Committee, leading business area development and production in North America.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - February 2020
Law Center Student Wins International Energy Law Writing Competition
By Janet Miranda
Megan Rollag, a third-year UH Law Center (UHLC) student, won top honors in the 2019-2020 Association of International Petroleum Negotiators Writing Competition. Her paper titled, “Future of Cross-Border Pipeline Projects in AMLO’s Mexico: What’s the Risk” is about the multifaceted nature of $1 billion international investment projects in the oil and gas industry.
READ FULL ARTICLE
UH Hosts Congressional Hearing About the Future of Carbon Capture Research
By Janet Miranda
On Nov. 22nd the University of Houston hosted the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Science, Space & Technology for a field hearing on future research and development on carbon capture, utilization and storage. The hearing was held at the Hilton University of Houston.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Can Mindfulness Keep Offshore Energy Workers Safe?
By Jeannie Kever
The Consortium for Energy Corporate Social Responsibility (CECSR) at the University of Houston (UH) will host a day long workshop on Environment, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) as applied to the different sectors of the energy industry on February 27, 2020.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Energy Advisory Board Spotlight - David Ramm
By Janet Miranda
David Ramm currently serves as the, and chairman and CEO of BrightSource Energy Inc., a leading provider of concentrating solar thermal technology and managing partner of Dymar Development LLC, a Houston-based energy development and consulting company.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - January 2020
Inside Research: Taking Robotics to a New Frontier
By Janet Miranda
Aaron Becker, assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering and director of the Robotic Swarm Control Lab talks to UH Energy about his research involving underwater robotics in subsea environments.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Geophysics Students Organize Exploration Software Bootcamp
By Rebeca Trejo
The SEG Wavelets is the student chapter of the Society of Exploration Geophysicists at the University of Houston. The group organized a software bootcamp that brought in professionals from companies Schlumberger and StructureSolver to teach the class for students.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Navigating the Ever-Changing World of ESG in the Energy Industry
By The Consortium for Energy Corporate Social Responsibility (CECSR)
The Consortium for Energy Corporate Social Responsibility (CECSR) at the University of Houston (UH) will host a day long workshop on Environment, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) as applied to the different sectors of the energy industry on February 27, 2020.
REGISTER NOW
Features - December 2019
Q&A: Forbes Scholar Sara Haq’s 30 Under 30 Summit Experience
By Janet Miranda
Sara Haq is a supply chain senior and student board member of the Energy Coalition. She recently attended the Forbes 30 Under 30 Summit as a Forbes Scholar. Haq talks to us about her experience and advice for students interested in attending.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - November 2019
UH Energy has $1.6 billion economic impact on local region
By Janet Miranda
A new study reports that UH Energy, which oversees efforts across University of Houston to serve as a strategic partner to the energy industry, added $1.6 billion to the Greater Houston economy during fiscal year 2017-2018.
READ FULL ARTICLE
UH Energy Participates in Energy Day Festival in Downtown Houston
By Janet Miranda
UH Energy participated in the ninth annual Energy Day Festival last month, hosted by the Consumer Energy Education Foundation and the Consumer Energy Alliance at Sam Houston Park.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Low Frequency Seismic Prototype to Expand Seismic Capability
By Rachel Fairbank
The University of Houston received a 78,000-pound Counter Rotating Eccentric Mass Vibrator – eXperimental Prototype, or CREMV-XP for short. The device is the first of its kind and will support the mission of a new industry-supported research consortium at UH.
READ FULL ARTICLE
UH Hosts IPAA/PESA Exploring Energy Conference
By Janet Miranda
The University of Houston hosted the two-day Exploring Energy Conference High School Conference at the Student Center South on Oct 23-24.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - September | October 2019
UH Delegation Visits National Energy Laboratory in Pittsburgh
By Charles McConnell
Representatives of the University of Houston discussed some of the University’s key energy initiatives during a recent daylong exchange with executives from the Department of Energy’s National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL).
READ FULL ARTICLE
Energy Advisory Board Spotlight on member Ajay Mehta
By Janet Miranda
Ajay Mehta, General Manger for New Energies Research & Technology at Shell, is one of 25 energy leaders who make up the University of Houston’s Energy Advisory Board (EAB).
READ FULL ARTICLE
UH Energy Launches Executive Education Program
By Janet Miranda
UH Energy and the Center for Carbon Management in Energy are launching a new certificate program, the Executive Certificate in Sustainable Energy Development. The certificate is aimed at both senior and future energy executives and will prepare them for the rapidly changing global energy industry.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - August 2019
Inside Research: Welch-UH Center director sets sights on ‘broader scope’ of polymer research
By Janet Miranda
Polymers, often overlooked, have become a ubiquitous feature of modern life. That’s what Eva Harth, director of the Welch-UH Center of Excellence in Polymer Chemistry would have you know.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Energy Coalition Spotlight: New Year, New Vision
By Janet Miranda
The Energy Coalition is the largest energy-centered organization on campus, connecting students with key energy leaders and organizing energy events.
READ FULL ARTICLE
South Korean Delegation Visits the University of Houston
By Janet Miranda
A South Korean delegation visited the University of Houston as part of the State Department’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) to learn about developments in technology and commerce for the global supply of liquified natural gas (LNG).
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - July 2019
UH Energy Launches EVolve Houston in Collaboration with CenterPoint Energy and the City of Houston
By Janet Miranda
Sustainability is a loaded word in Houston. When you think of Houston, images of the oil and gas industry that contribute...
READ FULL ARTICLE
How the Data Science Institute’s academic programs aim to build the next generation of skilled energy leaders
By Janet Miranda
It would be a major overstatement to dismiss the growing importance of data science in the future of the energy industry.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Subsea Systems Institute Advances Robotics Innovation in Gulf of Mexico Offshore Exploration
By Janet Miranda
The Subsea Systems Institute (SSI) is a collaboration between the University of Houston, Rice University and...
READ FULL ARTICLE
UH Team Wins World Finals of AAPG Imperial Barrel Award
By Jeannie Kever
A team of five Ph.D. and M.S. students from the University of Houston’s Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences...
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - May | June 2019
Designing the Net Zero Future: Interdisciplinary UH Team Wins Change Happens! Home Design Competition
By Janet Miranda
Two interdisciplinary teams of UH students vied for the 1st place of the Change Happens! Energy Efficient Home Design competition.
READ FULL ARTICLE
UH Leads Dialogue in Risk Management and Investment Protection in case of Venezuela Energy Crisis
By Janet Miranda
In an effort to promote dialogue about asset protection and chemical security in the oil and gas industry...
READ FULL ARTICLE
Energy Advisory Board Spotlight on Member Carri Lockhart
By Janet Miranda
Carri Lockhart, Senior Vice President for Equinor’s Development and Production International, is one of the 24 board executives that make up the UH Energy Advisory Board.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - March | April 2019
A Sustainable Entry: Five UH Students Created an Art Car to Promote Sustainability
By Jeannie Kever
None of the students had ever been to the Houston Art Car Parade, but as it turned out, that wasn’t a problem.
READ FULL ARTICLE
ABB Student Ambassador Program Provides Industry and Networking Experience to Students
By Janet Miranda
UH Energy and ABB, a multinational technological leader in robotics & automation, recently partnered to recruit UH students for an informative “mini-internship” experience.
READ FULL ARTICLE
UH Builds Dynamic Energy Leaders Amid Energy Transition Through Gutierrez Energy Management Institute
By Janet Miranda
The Gutierrez Energy Management Institute (GEMI), housed within the C.T. Bauer College of Business at the University of Houston, has been at the forefront of a dynamic energy education program with the expertise and support of the industry, benefiting career-seeking students in the energy sector since 2001.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Energy Advisory Board Spotlight on member Clay Williams
By Janet Miranda
Clay Williams, Chairman, President and CEO of National Oilwell Varco is one of the 24 industry leaders who make up the UH Energy Advisory Board.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Researchers are gathering data off the coast of Antarctica to improve predictions of future sea-level rise
By Jeannie Kever
Antarctica is one of the most remote spots on earth, roughly the size of the United States and Mexico combined and home to a rotating roster of scientists.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - January | February 2019
UH Launches Center for Carbon Management in Energy For A Holistic Approach to a Low Carbon Future
By Janet Miranda
The University of Houston recently launched its Center for Carbon Management in Energy (CCME) to connect faculty, researchers and students at UH with the energy industry.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Energy Coalition Spotlight: Co-Vice Chairs of Student Organization Relations Efforts to Grow Member Organizations
By Janet Miranda
As we start another semester the Energy Coalition (EC) board, the largest organization on campus with over 8,000 students working across six colleges and over 30 majors, gets ready to touch base with prospective organizations.
READ FULL ARTICLE
UH Professor Recognized in 25 Influential Women in Energy Luncheon
By Janet Miranda
Christine Ehlig-Economides, Hugh Roy and Lillie Cranz Cullen Distinguished University Chair at the University of Houston, was recently named by Houston-based publishing company Hart Energy as one of 25 Influential Women in Energy. Ehlig-Economides is one of just two women from academia who made the list.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Uniting Research and Service: PROMES Director’s Quest to Increase Diversity in STEM
By Janet Miranda
Jerrod Henderson, instructional assistant professor in the Cullen College of Engineering at the University of Houston and director of Program for Mastery in Engineering Studies (PROMES), has dedicated his career to uniting his passion for chemical engineering with his passion for teaching and mentoring to increase the number of minority students in the STEM field.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Features - India Special Edition 2018
Academic-Industry Partnership Offers Benefits for Both Sides
An innovative partnership between the University of Houston and Oil India Ltd. led to dramatically increased expected oil reserves and also contributed to production enhancement from Oil India fields and paved the way for a project to boost oil recovery from established reservoirs while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Read More
UH Signs on to Help Boost Innovation and Commercialization in India
By Janet Miranda
The University of Houston and iCreate, the India-based International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology, have agreed to work together to initiate “innovation to rapid commercialization” that could lead to explosive growth in the Indian market, solving a central problem in the Asian nation. Read More
UH Signs MoU with Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy
By Rashda Khan
The University of Houston recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy (IIPE), declared by the Indian Parliament as an “institution of national importance.” Read More
UH and IIT Kharagpur to Promote Collaborative Programs in Petroleum Engineering
By Janet Miranda
The University of Houston and the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for joint academic and research collaborations. The initial areas of work identified include petroleum engineering, covering niche aspects of chemical, advanced materials, deep-sea technology and analytics and industrial engineering. Read More
UH Professor Creates Research Connections with GIAN Program
By Janet Miranda
Rakesh Verma, professor of computer science and director of ReDas Lab at the University of Houston, taught a short course called “Security from the Data Science Perspective” at the Indian Institute of Technology Ropar, under a competitive Indian government program called the Global Initiative of Academic Networks, also known as GIAN. Read More
VAJRA Program Links UH Professor to Indian Institute of Technology at Madras
By Janet Miranda
Gopal Pandurangan, professor of computer science in the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics at the University of Houston, has also served as visiting professor at his alma mater, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) at Madras, through a program designed to strengthen ties between universities in India and elsewhere. IIT Madras is the top ranked engineering school in India according to the National rankings of the Indian government. Read More
Features - November | December 2018
UH Energy and IPAA/PESA Partnership Promotes A New Generation of Energy Leaders
By Janet Miranda
The partnership between UH Energy and the high school academies supported by the Independent Petroleum Association of America/Petroleum Equipment & Services Association (IPAA/PESA) promotes STEM careers and engages the future technical workforce. Read More
Ardebili Named Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Cullen College
By Janet Miranda
Haleh Ardebili, Bill D. Cook associate professor of mechanical engineering at the University of Houston, has been named director of the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Initiative at the Cullen College of Engineering. The Role Will Focus on Fostering a Culture of Innovation. Read More
Ozone Level Collection Gives Students Firsthand Field Research Experience
By Janet Miranda
Before the impact of ozone levels on air quality and human health were widely known, Houston was known for some of the worst air quality in the nation. The growing emissions from traffic, refineries, petrochemical facilities and other industrial sources contributed to the smoggy air. Read More
Four Students Selected As 2018 Forbes Under 30 Scholars Attend the Summit in Boston
By Janet Miranda
Four students at the University of Houston were recently selected as Forbes Under 30 Scholars. The partnership between Forbes and higher education institutions grants juniors and seniors the chance to attend the 2018 Forbes Under 30 Summit. Read More
Features - September | October 2018
Energy Symposium Focuses on the Rise of New Innovation and the Changes to the Grid
By Janet Miranda
The opening discussion of the 2018-19 Energy Symposium Series, “Future of the Electric Grid: Renewed or Gridlocked?” focused on the changing landscape of the energy market, with the growth of renewable energy as well as the impact of technological innovations. Read More
UH Law Center Student Wins Second Place in Energy Law Competition
By Janet Miranda
Maddison Malone Riddick, a third-year UH Law Center student, won second place in an energy law writing competition sponsored by the American Bar Association. Her article focused on access to solar energy within homeowner associations. Read More
Professor Spotlight: Weglein’s Journey in Fundamental High Impact Seismic Research
By Janet Miranda
As a young man growing up in the South Bronx, Arthur Weglein never imagined he would end up with a long and illustrious career in theoretical physics, honored with a distinguished chair or that he would join the faculty at the University of Houston. Read More
Chair Christian Beduya’s Initiatives for the Largest Student Organization on Campus
By Janet Miranda
As we start the new school year, the Energy Coalition (EC) board welcomes a new students into key board positions. Made up of 18 students, the board is in charge of planning events and connecting with key energy leaders. Christian Beduya, a finance and economics student, is the EC’s third chair since the student-run organization was founded. Read More
Features - August 2018
The Office of Sustainability’s Efforts for a Greener Campus
By Janet Miranda
The University of Houston has worked for a decade to foster environmentally-friendly initiatives on campus, beginning with the promotion of a campus-wide recycling program and leading to the creation of the Office of Sustainability. The Office of Sustainability serves as a hub for UH’s sustainability efforts and works to cultivate a culture of sustainability on campus. Read More
Equinor Invests In Energy & Sustainability Students with Scholarship Program
By Janet Miranda
Six students enrolled in the University of Houston’s Energy & Sustainability minor were recently selected for the
Offshore Regulator's Conference 2018 By Sharinna Byrd
Tim Duncan, chief executive officer of Talos Energy LLC, served as keynote speaker for the Second Inter-American Hydrocarbons Regulators Dialogue Conference last spring, part of an initiative by the University of Houston to create a forum for dialogue between hydrocarbon industry regulators, service companies, law firms and universities. Read More
Features - June 2018
UH’s Subsea Program Director Makes Waves in Subsea Education
By Valeria Dominguez
UH Chapter of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) Wildcatters Win Special Award
By Sharinna Byrd
Officers of University of Houston’s chapter of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists were presented with the “Outstanding Domestic Student Chapter Award” at the AAPG 101st Annual Convention and Exhibition in Salt Lake City in May. AAPG has more than 245 student chapters world-wide . Read More
The University of Houston Hosts 3rd Annual Energy Banquet
By Sharinna Byrd
Energy professionals, students and alumni filled the UH Hilton Conrad Ballroom on the evening of April 19, 2018 to attend the 3 rd Annual UH Energy Banquet. The celebration brings back alumni and connects them with students, industry professionals and members of the Energy Advisory Board. Read More
UH Team Wins NASA Competition
By Sharinna Byrd
Solar-powered refrigeration has been a winner at business plan competitions across the country, driven by a team from the University of Houston and the business plan the team created to commercialize a technology developed by NASA. The
Features - April 2018
Energy, Artificial Intelligence & Robotics: The Future of People in Energy Production
By Valeria Dominguez
UH Energy’s fourth and last energy symposium for 2017-18 featured robotics experts Rasheed Haq, global head of AI, robotics and data engineering for Sapient Consulting; Julia Badger, project manager for
UH Energy Launches the Energy Plant Operations Innovation Challenge
By Valeria Dominguez
Along the Gulf Coast, hundreds of chemical, petrochemical, refinery
Student Spotlight - Nicolas Xiong
By Valeria Dominguez
While most 17-year-olds are consumed with angst and excitement as they navigate the complex college application process, Xiong is already five months removed from receiving his diploma—not from high school, but from the University of Houston. Read More
High School Senior Writes on What a Melting of the Arctic Means for U.S.-Russian Relations
By Valeria Dominguez
Nikola Skerl, a senior at Houston’s Carnegie Vanguard High School, won first place in an essay competition sponsored by UH Energy and the UH Honors College about the future of U.S.-Russian relations. Read More
By Valeria Dominguez
By Valeria Dominguez
Tanner Moran has been appointed as a new member of the UH Energy Advisory Board. Moran, the managing director at Hastings Equity Partners, brings 10 years of experience leading business development efforts to the EAB. Read More
Student Spotlight - Clara Palencia
By Claire Andersen
Doctoral student Clara Palencia earned a second place award in the PhD category of the International Student Society of Petrophysicists and Well Lock Analysts (SPWLA) competition last summer for a paper on the properties of mudrocks, a class of sedimentary rock. Read More
UH Petroleum Engineering Student Uses her Background for Future Success
By Valeria Dominguez
Anisha Deka stands out as an engineering student at the University of Houston. While pursuing a master’s degree in petroleum engineering, Deka shows that by combining her background from the oil and gas industry in India with her graduate studies in Houston, she is making strides on the path to a successful career in the energy sector. Read More
Renewable Energy: Should Government Subsidies Continue?
By Valeria Dominguez
The third installment of UH Energy’s popular symposium series featured industry experts presenting research and answering questions surrounding the future of government subsidies to promote renewable energy. Read More
North American Energy Ministers Visit UH
By Valeria Dominguez
The North American Energy Ministerial took place at
By Claire Andersen
The College of Education welcomed assistant professor Elsa Gonzalez,
Student Leader - Anand Selveindran
By Valeria Dominguez
Anand Selveindran, a petroleum engineering graduate student, claimed first place in the Poster category for his research, “Cowden South Grayburg Field Development.” Read More
10/23/2017 | By Claire Andersen
The Energy Coalition, the largest energy-related student organization on campus, will host its third annual Energy Night next month. The event will feature several industry leaders who will share about their experience in the energy field and how they got to where they are today. Energy Night is meant for all UH students interested in or curious about the energy industry. Attendees will have opportunity to network with other energy-focused students, play games and win prizes. Read more >>
10/23/2017 | By Claire Andersen
While the rest of the University of Houston’s students and faculty were trying to beat the August heat, professor Bob Talbot was in Fort Collins, Co. watching a drone bob and weave across a mock oil production site on a mission to locate methane leaks. The drone is the center of Talbot’s biggest active project, an initiative from the Department of Energy’s Small Business Innovation Research Program to create a device that can autonomously detect and quantify fugitive methane leaks. Read more >>
Birol Dindoruk inducted to the National Academy of Engineers
10/23/2017 | By Claire Andersen
The University of Houston’s petroleum engineering program, the largest and fastest growing department in the Cullen College of Engineering, can now boast another National Academy of Engineers (NAE) member on its staff. Adjunct professor Birol Dindoruk was inducted into NAE, which is widely considered the highest honor for an engineer, in early October. Read more >>
10/23/2017 | By Claire Andersen
Two graduate students from the Cullen College of Engineering’s petroleum engineering department traveled to India this summer for a ten-week internship with Oil India Limited, the nation’s national oil companies. Read more >>
Student Leader | How one UH student meets his goals as an energy leader, researcher
09/26/2017 | By Claire Andersen
Free time is hard to come by, and even more rare for university students. Most 20-something college students use their precious free time studying, spending time with friends or catching up on Netflix. But Julian Chenin is not your average college student. In addition to his regular class schedule, Chenin also participates in rare geological research, works several jobs and is a student leader of one of the largest student organizations on campus. Read more >>
A Bright Future for Texas | UH researchers delve into the essentials of a qualified workforce for Texas
09/26/2017 | By Claire Andersen
While the University of Houston blazes forward in athletics, research and student body population growth, academic departments prove that they can keep up and even exceed that pace. The Hobby School of Public Policy, just over a year old, is already making its mark not only on state policy but also on the growth and success of the Texas workforce. Read more >>
Connecting Leaders in Energy | Renewable energy advisor shares his thoughts on UH and the future of energy education
09/26/2017 | By Claire Andersen
David Ramm, leader and contributor in the renewable energy industry, is one of the 21 industry executives who serve on President Khator’s Energy Advisory Board (EAB). Having been both an active member and chairman during his time on the board, Ramm is familiar with the president's energy goals and equipped to guide the university to new heights. Read more >>
Power and Energy in Focus | New UH certificate program enlightens students on the ins and outs of electrical systems
08/16/2017 | By Claire Andersen
This fall, the Cullen College of Engineering will offer new courses in Power and Energy Systems, a certificate program created by Kaushik Rajashekara. The program will feature courses that train students to understand both the technical and business aspects of electrical systems. Read more >>
Student Leader | How the new Energy Coalition chair plans to expand upon the largest student organization on campus
08/16/2017 | By Claire Andersen
With the new school year comes a new board for the Energy Coalition (EC). Made up of 18 students, the board is in charge of creating and planning events as well as collaborating with industry players.
Going Global | UH students see O&G from a global perspective at the World Petroleum Conference
08/16/2017 | By Claire Andersen
Two students from the University of Houston were selected to represent the United States at the 2017 World Petroleum Congress (WPC) in Istanbul, Turkey in July. Recent graduate David Lankford-Bravo and senior Euler Reyes joined nearly 70 other young professionals from around the world as volunteers for the 22
Connecting Leaders in Energy | Energy Advisory Board spotlight on member John Gibson
08/16/2017 | By Claire Andersen
One of the founding members of the UH’s Energy Advisory Board (EAB), John Gibson continues to promote the university’s energy initiative with his unique viewpoint and passionate curiosity. Gibson currently advises Tudor, Pickering Holt, & Co. on energy technology and serves on the board of directors of Orocobre, the world’s first commercial, brine-based lithium operation constructed in approximately 20 years. Gibson received both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in geology and has diverse experience in the energy industry, from upstream oil and gas and the environment to digital and power storage. Read more >>
Alumni Spotlight | UH Alumna gains multidimensional experience at leading O&G company
08/16/2017 | By Claire Andersen
UH
Space Talk | Recent UH Graduate Tells of His Leap from O&G to Aerospace Engineering
07/19/2017 | By Claire Andersen
The core of this boomtown has long been oil and gas, but UH’s focus extends far beyond what is conventionally categorized as energy. SpaceX employee and recent UH graduate Graham Mullings proves just how out-of-this-world energy students can go. Read more >>
Program Spotlight | Energy & Sustainability Minor Prepares Students to be Industry Leaders
07/19/2017 | By Claire Andersen
The Energy and Sustainability minor at the University of Houston is preparing the upcoming workforce by expanding its knowledge and understanding of the diversity. The minor was founded as a multidisciplinary academic track to ensure that students understand the concepts and applications of energy and sustainability from both technical and nontechnical perspectives. Read more >>
Campus Energy Leader | Energy Coalition Vice Chair Ready to Share her Passion for Energy on Campus
07/19/2017 | By Claire Andersen
As the upcoming school year fast approaches, the Energy Coalition’s new board is preparing for a new year of expansion and growth. As one of the largest student organizations on campus, the board is determined to educate and impassion UH students on all things energy. Executive board member Kamalpreet Kaur is a key part of this effort. Now a senior Management Information Systems (MIS) student, Kaur is determined to share her passion for energy with other students before she makes her own start in the industry. Read more >>
Energy Experts | New Director of the EENR Center Prepares to Boost UH as National Leader in Environment and Energy
06/21/2017 | By Claire Andersen
With climate and environmental issues taking center stage again, one of the nation’s leading environmental lawyers has returned to the UH Law Center with determination to merge the energy and law industries. Victor Flatt was recently hired as the Dwight
06/16/2017 | By Claire Andersen
A unique graduate certificate at the University of Houston, the Global Energy, Development, and Sustainability (GEDS) certificate has drawn scholars from down the street and around the world for its unique curriculum and expertise. This May, a group of government officials from the Ministry of Energy in Albania came to UH to for the executive certificate program, where they focused on topics ranging from community development to energy histories and operating standards. Read more>>
Passion for Energy | How a Recent UH Graduate Created the Largest Energy-Focused Community on Campus
06/16/2017 | By Claire Andersen
It is clear to anyone who speaks to Phillip Jefferson that the University of Houston is a significant source of passion and pride for him. When asked to describe himself in three words, he answered without hesitation: passionate, intense and loving.
If there was room for another word, it would surely be dedicated. Dedicated to being the best, dedicated to making his mark and most of
06/16/2017 | By Claire Andersen
President of EDF Oil Services, Mary Anne Brelinsky is one of the 21 industry leaders who make up the UH Energy Advisory Board. A member for the past two years, Brelinsky is part of the effort to lend strategic guidance to the energy initiatives at the University of Houston, helping to develop resources and strengthening the university’s reputation in Houston and beyond. Read more
Keys to Success | Chemical Engineering Student Rises as Future Leader in Renewable Energy Research
05/04/2017 | By Claire Andersen
Rawan AlMallahi’s college career embraces all the elements of an American success story: hard work, persistence
Shaping Tomorrow's Leaders | UH Institute Paves the Way for UH to be the Leading Energy University
05/04/2017 | By Claire Andersen
The UH Gutierrez Energy Management Institute is preparing students to lead the future of the energy industry.
More than two dozen energy executives gathered at the Gutierrez Energy Management Institute (GEMI) on the University of Houston campus earlier this spring, participating in a daylong strategy session to talk about what the Trump administration might mean for the industry and how best to prepare for that change. Read more >>
Shining Light on Big Data | New Mathematical System Created by UH Professor Promises a More Efficient Future for Data Gathering
05/04/2017 | By Claire Andersen
A new graduate certificate program focusing on a revolutionary data analytics system will begin next fall in the subsea engineering program. Created by Matthew Franchek, the founding director of the UH subsea engineering program, this program will train students to use adaptive model-based edge analytics, which is designed to gather key information from large masses of dark data to better predict when a system is about to fail. Read more >>
Offshore Research with SSI | How an Industry-driven, Houston based Institute is Supporting Safe and Efficient Offshore Development
05/04/2017 | By Claire Andersen
The Subsea Systems Institute (SSI), established in late 2015 through the RESTORE Act, is moving forward to bridge academic research and the oil and gas industry. Funded as one of the six Centers of Excellence created after the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, SSI concentrates on improving the safety and sustainability of offshore oil and gas exploration and development. Read more >>
The Ultimate Home Team Victory | A Team of UH Graduate Students Sweeps the Imperial Barrel Award Program Competition
05/04/2017 | By Claire Andersen
A team of five University of Houston graduate students brought home first prize from the international finals of the 2017 American Association of Petroleum Geologist’s (AAPG) Imperial Barrel Award Program (IBA) Competition.
The team was made up of two Ph.D. students, Eric Lunn and Delaney Robinson, and three M.S. students, Walter Reed, Leiser Silva
O&G Law in Action | Regulators from Leading Oil Production Nations Gathered for Annual Conference in Houston
05/04/2017 | By Claire Andersen
In
Solving Real-Time O&G Challenges | Distinguished Professor is Leading a Team of Scientists to Optimize Oil Recovery
05/04/2017 | By Claire Andersen
As the oil industry recovers from its most recent fall, a team of six elite scientists and engineers at the University of Houston (UH) are putting their heads together to solve the real-time challenges faced by the industry.
Ganesh Thakur, a world-renowned expert in reservoir management and oil fields rejuvenation, leads this team in a multiphase project focused on improving oilfield performance for Oil India Limited. Read more >>