The Rice University Sustainability Institute (RSI) has recently announced the recipients of the inaugural Rice Chevron Energy Graduate Fellowship, funded by Chevron. This fellowship aims to support the next generation of leaders in developing sustainable technologies that will shape our future. The partnership between Rice University and Chevron is a significant step towards fostering innovative solutions to critical energy challenges.
The 2024 Chevron Fellows are a group of talented individuals who are dedicated to addressing pressing energy issues. Xi Chen, a doctoral student in materials science and nanoengineering, is focusing on revolutionizing the recycling of lithium-ion batteries using microwave-assisted techniques. Enina Egiebor, a doctoral student in chemical and biomolecular engineering, is working on cost-effective solar-driven technologies to produce green hydrogen as an eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels. Miriam Gammerman, a doctoral student in Earth, environmental and planetary sciences, is researching the role of soil minerals in the global carbon cycle to combat climate change. Wesley Hungbui, an MBA student, is exploring the intersection of business and renewable energy to develop financial models for sustainable energy projects. Alexander Lathem, a doctoral student in applied physics, is developing carbon-free methods to produce ammonia for agricultural purposes. Ziran Wang, a doctoral student in civil and environmental engineering, is studying the resilience of power grids and pipelines in the face of threats like natural disasters.
The fellowship program also includes Ahmad El Gazzar and Zina Deriche, doctoral students in chemical and biomolecular engineering, who are researching renewable fuel production and carbon-capture technologies. Travis Seamons, a doctoral student in systems, synthetic, and physical biology, is focusing on advanced biological systems to sequester carbon dioxide. Stan Kannegieter, a doctoral student in economics, is investigating economic models and policies to facilitate the transition to a decarbonized industry. These fellows represent a diverse range of disciplines and expertise, all working towards a common goal of advancing sustainable energy solutions.
Chevron’s Vice President of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage, Chris Powers, expressed pride in supporting emerging leaders focused on innovative solutions. The partnership between Rice University and Chevron is a testament to their commitment to developing scalable, practical, lower carbon solutions for the world. By investing in original solutions and supporting future leaders in the energy sector, Chevron is contributing to a sustainable future.
The Rice Chevron Energy Graduate Fellowship program, established by the RSI in partnership with Chevron, aims to advance cutting-edge sustainable energy solutions and nurture the development of future leaders in the field. For more information about the program and the groundbreaking research being conducted by this year’s fellows, please visit the website. This partnership between academia and industry is a crucial step towards driving the energy evolution and creating a more sustainable future for all.