Tell us about your research project and why it is important to you.
My field of research is numerical simulation of the flow of fluids and chemical species in oil fields. In particular, I focus on the study of fluid transfer between the matrix system and fracture of naturally fractured reservoirs to correctly model hydrocarbon recovery mechanisms. Likewise, my research includes the analysis and modeling of chemical tracers for dynamic characterization processes and estimation of oil saturation. The importance of studying this type of deposits is that, in Mexico and worldwide, precise estimates are required in order to correctly evaluate the flow behavior and increase the production of hydrocarbons.
Have you presented or published your research somewhere? Tell us about the experience.
Unfortunately, the first presentations of my research had to be postponed due to the COVID-19 situation. Some have been rescheduled for fall 2020 in hopes of having the appropriate conditions to attend the technical conferences; however, at this time there is no confirmation if this will be possible or if they will have to be done remotely.
What would you say is something interesting in your area of study that most people don't know about?
Producing hydrocarbons is considered by most people to be an activity that requires only drilling a well at a certain depth for oil and gas to flow to the surface. However, for the optimal production of hydrocarbons, the use of recovery methods such as the injection of steam, water, CO2, polymers, and surfactants is required to generate efficient displacement and/or modify the properties of the hydrocarbons contained in the porous medium.
Tell us about your academic or professional collaborations with Mexico.
I am in collaboration with specialists in petroleum engineering in order to establish a research group to develop practical and innovative solutions to address the needs and requirements of the oil industry in Mexico. Likewise, I have participated in academic and research activities with the UNAM Petroleum Engineering program, where I was an instructor. There is an interest in collaborating with other professors and students.
What attracted you to Texas and UT?
The main reason is that the graduate program in petroleum engineering here at UT Austin is number one in the United States, so being accepted into the Center of Petroleum and Geosystems Engineering (CPGE) at this university is a privilege. My second reason is to be able to focus on the development and research of improved recovery processes under the mentorship of professors who are pioneers worldwide in this field of study, including Dr. Gary Pope and Dr. Larry Lake. A third factor that influenced my decision was a friend’s suggestion that I should take on the challenge of pursuing a Ph.D. at UT Austin.
What have been some good things you did not expect from Texas or UT?
The peacefulness of the city, the number of parks to relax or play sports, and the many places with Mexican food. What I did not expect at CPGE here at UT is the number of foreign students in the Petroleum Engineering graduate program, as only 10 to 20 percent of students are from the United States. This diversity allows us to have a broader perspective on the problems in the oil industry around the world that need to be solved.
What have been the biggest challenges of studying at UT and living in the United States?
The level of demand and competitiveness of the program. The reputation of the program attracts highly qualified students from all over the world, which generates an environment of constant improvement and development of new skills. The educational system is also another important factor, since it requires rapid adaptation and the efficient organization of activities related to academic courses and research. Regarding living in the United States, I consider that being without your family and friends and adapting to another culture is a challenge when starting your studies abroad.
How has the support of ConTex and Conacyt impacted you?
ConTex and Conacyt are essential educational programs for the training of Mexican professionals in institutions of excellence in the United States. The support provided by these two institutions is undoubtedly vital for us as students to focus on our academic and research responsibilities. During my master's studies at UNAM, I was awarded a scholarship by Conacyt which allowed me to specialize in reservoir simulation and later gave me the opportunity to continue my studies here at UT Austin. In particular, the communication and support from ConTex has been excellent. They have always answered my questions and provided advice.
What kind of work do you hope to do in the future? How do you hope your research will benefit people in the United States and Mexico?
My goal is to be a specialist in numerical reservoir simulation. I hope to be part of a research group specialized in improved recovery processes in Mexico, which will allow me to apply the knowledge I acquire during my doctoral studies. Likewise, the research developments carried out will represent the basis for other applications or additional studies in the United States and Mexico, since the production of hydrocarbons in naturally fractured fields is an activity of great importance that requires new solutions.
What advice would you give to other Mexican students considering studying in Texas?
Studying in Texas is an excellent decision since it has prestigious institutions. I would advice other Mexican students to contact professors at the university in which they want to study, because they can provide research and funding options as well as a better perspective on the proposed research. Instructors are readily available to answer questions and provide support during the application process. I would also recommend that they get in touch with students from Mexico, as they can provide a more open opinion about their experience at the university and in the city.
