PhD Student, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, United States
Majed AlMubarak is a dedicated PhD candidate in Petroleum Engineering at Texas A&M University, where he maintains a perfect GPA of 4.0. With a rich academic background that includes a Master’s degree from MIT and a Bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M, Majed has consistently demonstrated excellence in his studies. He has significant experience in both industry and research, having worked as a reservoir engineer at Saudi Aramco and contributed to various high-impact research projects. Majed is passionate about advancing energy technologies and sustainable practices within the petroleum industry.
Profile
Google Scholar
Strengths for the Award
- Academic Excellence:
- Majed has demonstrated exceptional academic performance throughout his educational journey, achieving a 4.0 GPA in his PhD program and a 4.9 GPA in his Master’s degree at MIT. His summa cum laude distinction during his undergraduate studies further showcases his commitment to excellence.
- Diverse Research Experience:
- His extensive research background spans multiple prestigious institutions, including Texas A&M University and MIT. He has participated in various impactful projects related to petroleum engineering, rock mechanics, and geothermal systems, indicating a breadth of knowledge and adaptability in different research environments.
- Innovative Contributions:
- Majed’s research on CO2 injection challenges, electro-hydraulic fracturing, and the development of novel fracturing fluids demonstrates his capacity for innovation in addressing complex industry challenges. His work on smart underground space exploration also reflects a forward-thinking approach to integrating technology and research.
- Publication Record:
- With multiple published works and citations in prominent journals and conferences, Majed has established himself as a thought leader in his field. His involvement in various projects that contribute to the understanding of fluid dynamics and rock interactions enhances his visibility and credibility as a researcher.
- Industry Experience:
- His practical experience as a reservoir engineer at Saudi Aramco equips him with a strong understanding of real-world applications, enhancing his research’s relevance and applicability to the petroleum industry.
Areas for Improvement
- Networking and Collaboration:
- While Majed has a strong foundation, increasing his engagement in interdisciplinary collaborations could enrich his research perspectives and lead to novel findings. Actively participating in more workshops and conferences can enhance his professional network.
- Broader Impact of Research:
- Focusing on how his research can be translated into broader societal benefits, such as environmental sustainability and energy efficiency, could enhance the impact of his work and appeal to a wider audience.
- Leadership Roles:
- Taking on leadership roles in research projects or student organizations could further develop his management and mentorship skills, positioning him as a leader in the academic community.
Education
Majed AlMubarak is currently pursuing a PhD in Petroleum Engineering at Texas A&M University, expected to graduate in 2026 with a 4.0 GPA. He holds a Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering from MIT, where he achieved an impressive GPA of 4.9. Majed also earned his Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering from Texas A&M University in 2019, graduating summa cum laude with a GPA of 3.91. His educational journey reflects a strong foundation in engineering principles, enhanced by rigorous coursework and research experiences that have shaped his expertise in geomechanics and reservoir engineering.
Experience
Majed AlMubarak has gained valuable industry experience as a Reservoir Engineer at Saudi Aramco’s EXPEC Advanced Research Center. During his tenure from 2019 to 2020, he led projects focusing on CO2 enhanced oil recovery and experimental work addressing CO2 injection challenges. His hands-on approach involved utilizing advanced monitoring techniques and conducting laboratory experiments to improve recovery efficiency. In addition to his industry experience, Majed has served as a Graduate Research Assistant at Texas A&M University and MIT, where he engaged in significant research projects, including acid fracturing geomechanics and electro-hydraulic fracturing for geothermal systems. His diverse experience positions him as a well-rounded professional in the field of petroleum engineering.
Awards and Honors
Majed AlMubarak has received numerous accolades throughout his academic career, underscoring his dedication and excellence in engineering. He was a finalist in the Best Young Professional SPE Endogenous Contest in 2020 and received the Distinguished Student Award from the Dwight Look College of Engineering in 2019. His commitment to research was recognized when he secured first place in the SPE Petroleum Engineering Student Paper Contest in 2018. Furthermore, Majed has consistently achieved academic excellence, earning a place on the President’s List and the Dean’s List from 2015 to 2019. His undergraduate studies were fully sponsored by Saudi Aramco Oil Company, reflecting his potential and the value he brings to the engineering community.
Research Focus
Majed AlMubarak’s research focuses on advancing the understanding of geomechanics and reservoir engineering within the petroleum sector. His current projects at Texas A&M University involve evaluating acid fracturing geomechanics in carbonate rocks and assessing fracture conductivity in the Austin Chalk Formation. He explores innovative solutions for CO2 enhanced oil recovery and examines the efficiency of matrix acid stimulation techniques. His previous work at MIT concentrated on electro-hydraulic fracturing and the effects of various parameters on rock testing, further enriching his expertise. Majed is dedicated to addressing challenges in the energy industry, particularly in improving recovery techniques and promoting sustainable practices through advanced engineering solutions.
Publication Top Notes
- Investigation of acid-induced emulsion and asphaltene precipitation in low permeability carbonate reservoirs.
- A collective clay stabilizers review.
- Insights on potential formation damage mechanisms associated with hydraulic fracturing.
- Recent advances in waterless fracturing fluids: A review.
- Chelating agent for uniform filter cake removal in horizontal and multilateral wells: laboratory analysis and formation damage diagnosis.
- Influence of zirconium crosslinker chemical structure and polymer choice on the performance of crosslinked fracturing fluids.
- Zirconium crosslinkers: Understanding performance variations in crosslinked fracturing fluids.
- Enhancing foam stability through a combination of surfactant and nanoparticles.
- A study on the adsorption behavior of different surfactants in carbonate using different techniques.
- Turning the most abundant form of trash worldwide into effective corrosion inhibitors for applications in the oil and gas industry.
Conclusion
Majed AlMubarak is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award, showcasing exceptional academic achievements, a diverse research portfolio, and significant contributions to the field of petroleum engineering. His strengths in innovation, publication, and industry experience solidify his position as a leading researcher. By focusing on enhancing his networking, broadening the societal impact of his research, and developing leadership skills, Majed can further elevate his profile and influence in the academic and professional communities. His potential for continued excellence makes him a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition.