Tell us about your research project and why it is important to you.
My research focuses on the area of enhanced hydrocarbon recovery. Specifically, I am testing new additives for water injection in carbonated deposits. With this technique, it is possible to extract hydrocarbons from mature fields that otherwise would be impossible to remove from the subsoil. This topic interests me because I have been able to learn about reservoir engineering and generate new knowledge by applying my experience as a chemical engineer.
Have you submitted or published your research somewhere? Tell us about the experience.
Yes. Recently, I presented at the Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE ATCE), the most important conference in petroleum engineering. It was a wonderful experience that I hope to repeat soon. The number of people interested in my research surprised me. I had the opportunity to share my experiences and ideas with researchers who are working on similar topics. In addition, the conference was in Canada, so I was able to explore the majestic mountains and lakes near Calgary.
What would you say is something interesting in your area of study that most people do not know about?
There is a notion that those of us who study or work in the area of petroleum engineering are not interested in taking care of the environment. Many people would be surprised to learn about the important efforts that the oil companies make to take care of the environment and that they are investing in renewable energy. In fact, the main theme at the SPE ATCE opening session was climate change and the alternatives to achieve zero net CO
2
emissions. As a specific example, an important aspect of my research is to find chemical additives that are biodegradable and that minimize the use of water.
Tell us about your academic or professional collaborations with Mexico.
We are currently in the process of collaborating with institutions in Mexico in order to apply our research in oil fields throughout the country.
What attracted you to Texas and UT Austin?
The prestige of the petroleum engineering program, which is the best in the world. After I had a chance to really get to know UT Austin and explore the city, I realized that studying here was definitely the best choice.
What have been some good things you didn't expect from Texas or UT Austin?
Falling in love with Austin. Before coming to Texas, I had only heard about Dallas and Houston. But I was surprised by how beautiful Austin is and the many things you can do here—from kayaking in Lady Bird lake to listening to live music on South Congress, for example.
What have been the biggest challenges of studying at UT Austin and living in the United States?
I believe that the biggest challenge will always be being away from family, although I have managed to visit Mexico with some frequency and my family has come to visit Austin. Another thing that every Mexican misses is tacos. There is very good food in Austin and a good variety, but you will always crave food made in Mexico.
How has the support of ConTex and CONACYT impacted you?
The CONACYT program has greatly impacted my academic growth and professional development. CONACYT allowed me to complete my master's degree at the Mexican Petroleum Institute, and now supports me, along with ConTex, to pursue doctoral studies at UT Austin. Having tuition and a monthly stipend taken care of has allowed me to devote myself fully to my studies and to work on my research.
What kind of work do you expect to do in the future? How do you expect your research to benefit people in the United States and Mexico?
My plan is to continue doing research in the area of reservoir engineering. I would like to see my research applied to increase the production of hydrocarbons in mature fields in both Mexico and the United States. In addition, when I graduate I want to contribute to increasing collaboration between universities in Mexico and the United States.
What advice would you give to other Mexican students who are considering studying in Texas?
First, contact other Mexicans who are already studying at UT to learn more about the program, the admission process, the lifestyle, etc. Second, do not be afraid to contact the professors, but do not stress if you start your graduate studies without having an advisor from the beginning. Finally, try not to over think things. Many times, we believe that we do not have the necessary preparation to succeed here. The reality is that Mexicans have an excellent educational level, and proof of this is the large number of compatriots that you can find studying in Austin and throughout the United States.
