Dr. William Ampomah is an Associate Professor in Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering,
Dean Research Scholar, and Section Head of Reservoir Evaluation and Advanced Computational
Technologies at New Mexico Tech’s Petroleum Recovery Research Center.
As such, he has established one of the most impactful, externally recognized research
programs at New Mexico Tech, positioning the university at the forefront of carbon
capture, utilization, and storage, reservoir engineering, and subsurface energy systems.
Managing a portfolio of sponsored research exceeding $150–160 million—including major
U.S. Department of Energy initiatives like the CarbonSAFE Phase III project, the Four
Corners Storage Hub, and regional Direct Air Capture initiatives—Dr. Ampomah bridges
fundamental subsurface science with commercial-scale implementation. His prolific
scholarly contributions include over 150 peer-reviewed publications and technical
reports, drawing more than 4,300 citations and demonstrating exceptional scientific
rigor across geomechanics, reservoir simulation, hydrogen storage, and machine learning
applications.
Beyond his extraordinary research portfolio, nominators and peers highlight Dr. Ampomah’s
dedication as a mentor and institutional leader. Through his federally funded research,
he has advised and guided dozens of postdoctoral scholars, graduate, and undergraduate
students, converting academic endeavors into meaningful scientific publications and
career opportunities across industry, government, and academia. He is helping to produce
the workforce needed for the next generation of subsurface energy and carbon-storage
projects. Former students and national laboratory collaborators praise his ability
to build multidisciplinary, multi-institutional teams, fostering a collaborative,
supportive environment where junior researchers are empowered to tackle complex, real-world
engineering challenges of national importance.
Dr. Ampomah’s influence extends well beyond the boundaries of academia into vital
regulatory and international spheres. Serving as a New Mexico Oil Conservation Commissioner,
he applies his scientific expertise directly to statewide regulatory decisions regarding
environmental protection and responsible resource development. Furthermore, his leadership
on ISO Technical Committees shapes global standards for carbon management. Dr. Ampomah’s
combination of research excellence, visionary leadership, student devotion, and public
service exemplifies the highest ideals of academic leadership, making him deserving
of the 2026 Distinguished Research Award.
The Department Chair of Mechanical Engineering and previous award recipient, Mostafa
Hassanalian, said at the recent Convocation Ceremony, “Through his groundbreaking
research, outstanding leadership, and commitment to mentoring the next generation
of scientists and engineers, he exemplifies the spirit of this award.”