Edmonton, Alberta- Lixing published another research work in the journal of Langmuir.  In this paper, we used microfluidics to systematically quantify and visualize the combined effects of boundary conditions, gravity, and interfacial modification on spontaneous imbibition dynamics at the pore scale.

Lin L., Babadagli, T., Li H., 2026. Pore-Scale Investigation of Boundary and Gravity Effects on Chemical-Assisted Spontaneous Imbibition Using Microfluidics. Langmuir. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.langmuir.6c01981.

[May 26, 2026] Lixing Volunteers As Judge at the Canada-Wide Science Fair

Edmonton, Alberta- Lixing volunteered as a judge at the Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF). He was glad to see so many talented young students in this competition. Many of the projects are innovative and of great practical interest. Due to confidentiality agreements, Lixing is unable to share specific details about the judging process or the projects he evaluated. However, he expressed that the experience was immensely rewarding and reinforced his commitment to fostering the next generation of scientists and engineers. This judging role is part of Lixing's ongoing and dedicated efforts to promote Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. He has previously volunteered in various capacities to inspire young learners.

[March 20, 2026] Lixing Receives Martha Piper Research Award

Edmonton, Alberta- Lixing received Martha Piper Research Award from GSA and celebrated this with his family at the GSA Awards Night on March 20, 2026. Lixing was among three graduate students at the University of Alberta who were awarded the Martha Piper Research Award this year. This award is to recognize research communication excellence at the graduate level.

[March 19, 2026] Lixing Featured in Innovator Spotlight on UAlberta Website

Edmonton, Alberta- Edmonton, Alberta – Lixing has been featured in an Innovator Spotlight article on the University of Alberta's official YouAlberta website. The feature highlights his research journey, his passion for mentoring the next generation in STEM, and his personal connection to a 50-year legacy of U of A innovation.

In the interview with Jeremy from YouAlberta, Lixing discussed how his research builds upon foundational work developed by U of A researchers Dr. Ding-Yu Peng and Dr. Donald B. Robinson five decades ago. He shared the profound experience of meeting Dr. Peng at a campus seminar (as shown in the photo), a moment that provided meaningful encouragement. The article also explores Lixing's dedication to STEM outreach. He emphasized the joy of engaging young students' curiosity through interactive demonstrations and creative thinking.

For the full story, please read the article here: Innovator Spotlight: Building on a 50-Year U of A Legacy with Lixing

[Feb 13, 2026] Lixing Receives Dr. Gary McPherson Leadership Scholarship

Edmonton, Alberta- Lixing has been awarded the Dr. Gary McPherson Leadership Scholarship in recognition of his outstanding leadership and extensive volunteer contributions. Funded by the Alberta Government, this prestigious scholarship honours students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and initiative to improve the conditions and lives of others. Lixing is one of only six students at the University of Alberta to receive this recognition. Lixing appreciates the reference and support from  Trina Cattral.

During his doctoral studies, Lixing has been actively engaged in numerous leadership and volunteering roles across campus and the broader community. His contributions include serving as Symposium Chair at the Faculty of Engineering Graduate Research Symposium (FEGRS), Vice President of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Graduate Students Association (CEEGSA), and Vice President of the SPE UAlberta Student Chapter. He has also represented graduate students as an FGSR Councilor. Beyond campus leadership, Lixing has dedicated significant time to promoting STEM education and energy literacy. He has served as a mentor for the DiscoverE Summer Camp and an SPE Energy4me Ambassador, alongside participating in various community volunteering initiatives. This scholarship reflects Lixing's ongoing commitment to leadership, mentorship, and community engagement throughout his academic journey. 

[January 15, 2026] Lixing Inspires Future Engineers/Scientists at APEGA Science Night

Edmonton, Alberta- Lixing volunteered at the APEGA Science Nights held at Michael Strembitsky School on January 15, 2026. Collaborating with two fellow engineers, he led an engaging workshop where over 30 elementary students built and launched their own balloon rockets. The activity blended hands-on fun with core scientific principles. Lixing and the team explained the physics of thrust and Newton's Third Law of Motion behind the rockets' propulsion, successfully capturing the students' curiosity and enthusiasm for science and engineering. 

This event is part of Lixing's ongoing dedication to promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. He has previously volunteered in various roles to inspire young learners, including serving as a mentor for the DiscoverE Summer Camp, an SPE Energy4me ambassador, and a science explorer at the annual Science Rendezvous festival.

[November 22, 2025] Lixing Organizes Energizing Tomorrow Conference

Edmonton, Alberta- On Saturday, November 22, 2025, the University of Alberta campus was a hub for critical dialogue on the nation's energy transition, thanks to the successful Energizing Tomorrow conference. The event drew a diverse audience of over 100 professionals, academics, and students, all gathered on a weekend to engage with the complex road ahead for Canada's energy sector. Lixing was an executive member in the SPE UAlberta Chapter to plan and organize this engaging conference.

The conference featured a powerful roster of seven industry leaders, including CEOs and senior directors from leading energy firms (CNRL, Precision Drilling, McDaniel et al.). Their presentations provided a comprehensive look at the multi-faceted energy landscape, delving into the strategic role of Canadian LNG in global markets, the emerging infrastructure and economic potential of the hydrogen economy, and the continued innovation and evolution within the hydrocarbon sector.

A key highlight was a dynamic panel discussion on "The Future of Downstream: Energy Consumption, Service, and Beyond,"  moderated by Lixing. The discussion tackled pressing topics such as AI applications in the energy service, renewable energy integration in power grid, and the development of new, sustainable value chains for traditional energy products. "This conference succeeded in bridging the gap between current industry practice and future-focused innovation," said Lixing. "The dialogue wasn't just about competing energy sources, but about how they integrate to build a resilient, sustainable, and competitive Canadian energy system."

The event's success was made possible through crucial partnerships and dedicated effort. Lixing extends heartfelt gratitude to the Canadian Energy Executive Association (CEEA) for its foundational support. Special thanks also go to Dr. Ergun Kuru for his continued mentorship of the SPE UAlberta Student Chapter, and to the team of committed volunteers whose invaluable work ensured a seamless and impactful experience for all attendees.

[November 7, 2025] Lixing Hosts Career Development Session

Edmonton, Alberta- On November 6, 2025, Lixing had the pleasure of hosting a comprehensive career development presentation by seasoned professional Mohammed Mirza on behalf of SPE UAlberta Student Chapter.

With over 28 years of experience in the Upstream Oil and Gas sector, Mohammed provided invaluable, practical advice to students and professionals navigating the job market. The session covered critical topics for career advancement, including effective job application strategies, expert tips for revising and strengthening resumes, and proven techniques for successful interviewing and professional networking. Mohammed also provided a detailed walkthrough of the Engineer-in-Training (EIT) designation application process with APEGA, demystifying an important step for early-career engineers.

An active mentor with several prestigious organizations such as the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), Calgary Region Immigrant Employment Council  (CRIEC), and Edmonton Region Immigrant Employment Counsel (ERIEC), Mohammed generously shared his wealth of knowledge and insights.

Lixing extends sincere thanks to Mohammed Mirza for his time and generous mentorship, providing attendees with actionable guidance to empower their professional journeys.

[September 25, 2025] Lixing Awarded Petro-Canada Graduate Scholarship, ConocoPhillips Graduate Scholarship and Jong and Sunjoo Lee Graduate Scholarship

Edmonton, Alberta- Lixing has been awarded the Petro-Canada Graduate Scholarship, the ConocoPhillips Graduate Scholarship, and the Jong and Sunjoo Lee Graduate Scholarship. These prestigious awards recognize Lixing's significant contributions to research in petroleum engineering. 

The Petro-Canada Graduate Scholarship and ConocoPhillips Graduate Scholarship are merit-based awards that support exceptional graduate students conducting research in areas relevant to the energy industry. The Jong and Sunjoo Lee Graduate Scholarship further acknowledges outstanding scholarly achievement and research potential in engineering. These scholarships collectively highlight the impact and promise of Lixing's research within the petroleum engineering discipline at the University of Alberta.

[August 28, 2025] Presentation at the Department Introduction 

Edmonton, Alberta- On August 28, 2025, Lixing had the honor of representing the Civil and Environmental Engineering Graduate Students’ Association (CEEGSA) to give a presentation to new graduate students during our department introduction. 

In the presentation, Lixing shared the history of CEEGSA and reflected on his involvement since its foundation in 2023, where Lixing have been fortunate to serve as an executive committee member. Together with other committee members, we have organized a variety of events—some of which have now become traditions within our department. Lixing would also like to express my gratitude to our department chair, Dr. Samer Adeeb, and associate dean, Dr. Zaher Hashisho, for delivering an excellent introduction and warmly welcoming the new students.

[August 21, 2025] Lixing Organizes and Chairs the FEGRS Symposium 

Edmonton, Alberta- From August 19 to 21, 2005, Lixing had the privilege of organizing and chairing the Faculty of Engineering Graduate Research Symposium (FEGRS) at the University of Alberta. Serving as Symposium Chair, Lixing collaborated closely with fellow committee members to plan and execute an event that drew approximately 300 attendees from across the engineering graduate community.

Lixing had the honor of inviting three distinguished keynote speakers:

• Dr. Richard Sutton, 2024 Turing Award recipient

• Dr. Janet Elliott, Distinguished Professor and Canada Research Chair at the University of Alberta

• Dr. Loretta Li, Professor at the University of British Columbia

Together, we crafted a well-rounded symposium program that fostered engagement and discourse. Lixing also had the privilege of chairing a focused session on Energy and Environment, overseeing 10 insightful graduate presentations.

This role allowed me to strengthen my leadership and organizational skills, as well as gain valuable experience in coordinating large-scale academic events. Lixing would like to thank Dr. Anastasia Elias and Dr. Xiaoli Tan for their mentorship and all committee members for their efforts in making this symposium a success.

[July 15, 2025] New Publication in the SPE Journal

Edmonton, Alberta- Our paper has been published in the SPE Journal. In this paper, we employed Hele-Shaw cells and glass-etched micromodels to visualize the matrix-fracture interaction dynamics when various chemical agents were used for enhanced oil recovery (EOR).

Lin, L., Babadagli, T., Li, H., 2025. Using Visual Aids to Clarify the Matrix-Fracture Fluid Interaction in Enhanced Unconventional Oil Recovery With Chemical Additives. https://doi.org/10.2118/223984-PA.

[July 11, 2025] Lixing Mentors Young Students on Energy Topics

Edmonton, Alberta- On July 11, 2025, Lixing Lin and Tianhao Xie had a fantastic opportunity to present to a group of over 20 enthusiastic Grade 6–7 students at the DiscoverE summer camp held at the University of Alberta. As an Energy4me ambassador, I regularly engage with young students to inspire interest in energy topics through interactive presentations and demonstrations.

My talk today focused on carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), with particular attention to geological CO₂ storage and CO₂ enhanced oil recovery. The students were highly engaged and asked excellent questions about how we can reduce our carbon footprint. One student even gave a hilarious suggestion that we should all try holding our breath for a few seconds to reduce the CO₂ we emit!

It was inspiring to see such curiosity and energy from young minds. To encourage continued learning in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), I handed out over 20 Oil and Natural Gas books generously donated by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE). I hope this small gesture inspires them to explore the exciting challenges and opportunities in our future energy landscape.

[March 12-13, 2025] Presentation and Volunteering at SPE Canadian Energy Technology Conference 

Calgary, Alberta- On March 12–13, 2025, Lixing had the opportunity to present our latest research at the SPE Canadian Energy Technology Conference and Exhibition (CET) held at the BMO Centre in Calgary. 

Our presentation, titled “Using Visual Aids to Clarify the Matrix-Fracture Fluid Interaction in Enhanced Unconventional Oil and Gas Recovery with Chemical Additives”, introduced an innovative approach employing Hele-Shaw cells and micromodels to visualize spontaneous imbibition processes. This method provided valuable insights into the dynamics between matrix and fracture systems in unconventional reservoirs. The presentation garnered significant attention, leading to engaging technical discussions and inquiries from attendees. 

In addition to presenting, Lixing volunteered at the conference for the second consecutive year, assisting attendees in navigating between various presentations and exhibitions. This role offered a unique opportunity to connect with professionals across the industry. Notably, Lixing had the privilege of engaging in insightful conversations with Dr. Jennifer Miskimins, the 2026 SPE President, discussing advancements and future directions in petroleum engineering. Participating in CET 2025 was both an honor and a valuable experience, contributing to my ongoing commitment to research and community involvement within the energy sector.

[February 24, 2025] Lixing Featured on SPE Website for His Volunteer Contributions

Edmonton, Alberta- We are proud to share that Lixing Lin has been featured on the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) website as a dedicated SPE volunteer.

Lixing has been actively contributing to SPE by volunteering at various conferences, including the 2023 and 2024 Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (ATCE) and the 2024 Canadian Energy Technology Conference & Exhibition (CET). His passion for inspiring the next generation has also led him to participate in the SPE Energy4me program as an Energy Ambassador, where he educates young students on energy-related topics.

📖 Read the full story here: SPE Volunteer Testimonial

[February 21, 2025] New Publication in the I&ECR

Edmonton, Alberta- Our paper has been published on the Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research. In this paper, we evaluated the influence of boundary conditions on matrix-fracture interaction dynamics and compared the effectiveness of various chemical agents under different reservoir environments. Chemical selection was investigated for different applications, i.e., hydraulic fracturing in gas and oil reservoirs and enhanced oil recovery (EOR) for the latter.

Lin, L., Babadagli, T., Li, H., 2025. Matrix-Fracture Interaction Dynamics in Carbonates and Tight Sandstones when Different Chemicals are Used as Fracturing Fluids and Oil Recovery Additives. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.iecr.4c04458.

[December 11, 2024] New Publication in the CJCE

Edmonton, Alberta- Our paper has been published on the Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering. This work has been done in collaboration with the Research Institute of Petroleum Exploration and Development (RIPED) and Lixing is the corresponding author of this paper.

Organic alkalis as potential additives in hot water flooding for enhancing heavy oil recovery. https://doi.org/10.1002/cjce.25585

[November 25, 2024] Lixing Awarded Alberta Innovates Graduate Scholarship

Edmonton, Alberta- We are proud to announce that Lixing has been honored with the prestigious Alberta Innovates Graduate Scholarship. This esteemed award is granted to academically exceptional graduate students engaged in full-time research education at Alberta universities. Lixing would like to express his heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Babadagli and Dr. Li for their unwavering support and strong recommendations, which played an instrumental role in achieving this honor.

In addition to the Alberta Innovates Graduate Scholarship, Lixing also acknowledges and appreciates the generous scholarships received from several esteemed organizations, including:

• Killam Trusts

• The Government of Alberta

• The University of Alberta

• Petro-Canada

• Donald Lougheed Engineering

• Westmoreland Mining

• Edmonton Community Foundation

These scholarships have been vital in supporting Lixing’s PhD journey at the University of Alberta.

[October 23, 2024] Killam Awards Luncheon

Edmonton, Alberta- Lixing was honored to receive the prestigious Izaak Walton Killam Memorial Scholarship and celebrated this achievement at the Killam Awards Luncheon, hosted by University of Alberta President Bill Flanagan. The luncheon brought together distinguished scholars and supporters of research excellence across the university.

Before the luncheon, Lixing joined four other Killam laureates in a roundtable discussion with the Killam Trustees, led by Bernie Miller. This session provided an opportunity for open dialogue on research impact and the importance of academic support. Lixing expressed his deep gratitude to the Killam Trustees for their commitment to advancing research excellence at the University of Alberta, a commitment that continues to inspire and support groundbreaking work.

[September 23-25, 2024] Volunteering and Networking at the 100th SPE ATCE

New Orleans, Louisiana - Lixing recently attended the 2024 Society of Petroleum Engineers Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (SPE ATCE). For the second consecutive year, he volunteered for the event’s Startup Village, a vibrant hub for innovation and new ideas in the energy sector. Lixing also collaborated with the SPE International team to film a video promoting the SPE eMentoring program, sharing his personal story to inspire others in the field.

Besides attending various presentation sessions, Lixing had the privilege of networking with several leading experts in enhanced oil recovery and reservoir engineering. This included conversations with distinguished professionals like Dr. Larry Lake, Dr. Iraj Ershaghi, Dr. Jun Yao, Dr. Tony Yang, and Eric Delamaide. Engaging with these industry pioneers offered Lixing invaluable insights into the latest advancements and best practices, further enriching his expertise and professional network.

[September 15, 2024] New Publication in Fluid Phase Equilibria

Edmonton, Alberta- Our paper has been published on Fluid Phase Equilibria.

Lin, L., Babadagli, T., and Li, H. 2024. An empirical model for predicting saturation pressure of pure hydrocarbons in nanopores. Fluid Phase Equilibria https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fluid.2024.114232. 

[August 25, 2024] Support Stollery Children's Hospital with Lemonade Stand

Ellerslie, Alberta- My two kids Victoria and George, along with their friends Terry, Ryan, Jayden, hosted a lemonade stand during the weekend to support the Stollery Children's Hospital. The kids, fueled by their desire to help others, spent time designing vibrant posters, crafting sweet lemonade, and setting up shop for a three-hour fundraising event.

The event attracted over 50 generous customers from the neighborhood, all eager to contribute to the cause. Thanks to the overwhelming support, the kids were able to raise an impressive $300. This donation will go directly to the Stollery Children's Hospital, helping to provide essential care and support to children in need.

Victoria, George, and their friends would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who stopped by and donated (either online or in person). Their collective effort is a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together for a good cause.

[August 23, 2024] New publication in SPE Journal

Edmonton, Alberta- Our paper has been published on SPE Journal.

Lin, L., Babadagli, T., and Li, H. 2024. Understanding the Dynamics of Matrix-Fracture Interaction: The First Step Toward Modeling Chemical EOR and Selecting Suitable Fracturing Fluid in Unconventional Oil/Gas Recovery. SPE J. SPE-218032-PA. https://doi.org/10.2118/218032-PA. 

[July 5, 2024] Inspiring Future Engineers with Presentation and Demonstration

University of Alberta, Alberta- As an Energy4me Ambassador for SPE and a mentor for the DiscoverE prgram at the University of Alberta, Lixing gave an engaging presentation and live demonstration to a group of grades 6 and 7 students, introducing them to the world of petroleum engineering.

The presentation, titled "What Do Petroleum Engineers Do?" aimed to educate young minds on the critical role of the oil and gas industry. Lixing highlighted the significance of this sector in our daily lives. To bring the topic to life, Lixing conducted a live demonstration on oil recovery by spontaneous imbibition. He explained the science behind this process, showing how it contributes to the efficiency of oil extraction. The students were captivated by the practical application and gained a deeper understanding of the concepts involved.

As a mentor, Lixing encouraged the students to pursue studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). He emphasized the importance of STEM education in preparing for future contributions to the petroleum industry and inspired the students to consider careers in this vital field.

#mentor #volunteer #wearespe #SPE #Energy4me #DiscoverE

[May 11, 2024] Mentoring young kids during Science Rendezvous

Edmonton, Alberta- On May 11th, 2024, during the vibrant Science Rendezvous event at the Telus World of Science, Lixing volunteered as an Energy Adventurer to engage the audience with energy and environmental science demonstrations.

Lixing illustrated the process of underground CO2 storage and its dual benefit in enhancing oil recovery. This presentation captivated attendees with the technological advancement with potential impacts on both energy production and climate change mitigation. Additionally, Lixing led an engaging hands-on activity for young children, teaching them how to clean contaminated water using an unconventional yet effective material: chicken feathers. This creative and educational activity not only entertained but also enlightened the young minds about innovative approaches to environmental protection.

Lixing thanks Valerie Miller for her efforts in successfully organizing this event and Future Energy Systems for the support.

Calgary, Alberta- At the recent SPE Canadian Energy Technology Conference and Exhibition (CET), Lixing, captivated audiences with a research paper on unconventional oil and gas recovery methods. The presentation offered invaluable insights into selecting optimal chemical additives for hydraulic fracturing fluid design and enhancing oil recovery in unconventional reservoirs. The full paper can be found on OnePetro.

In addition to sharing research, Lixing played an active role in the conference’s technical sessions by volunteering to assist session chairpersons, ensuring smooth operations throughout the event. Besides networking with many professionals, Lixing had the opportunity to meet with his mentor Claudio during this trip to Calgary. Lixing was grateful for Claudio's mentorship through the SPE eMentoring program.

During the conference, Lixing also had the honor of meeting esteemed industry figures, including SPE 2024 President Terry Palisch and 2018 Darcy Spady, alongside a group of students from the University of Alberta. Expressing gratitude for their support of the university's petroleum engineering program, Lixing engaged in discussions aimed at improving the public image of the petroleum industry. Lixing proposed to utilize Energy4me outreach initiatives, an endeavor in which Lixing volunteers as an ambassador, to educate and inspire young minds about the energy sector. Embracing this vision, Terry Palisch endorsed plans to expand the Energy4me program, recognizing its potential to shape positive perceptions of the petroleum industry among future generations.

Ellerslie, Alberta- Despite the heavy wind and snow blanketing the evening, together with my two kids Victoria and George, we embarked on a 5 km walk for fundraising during the Coldest Night of The Year (CNOY) #CNOY24. 

With the generosity of donors, we helped Team Ellerslie from Ellerslie Road Baptist Church (ERBC) raised over $10,000 for Adeara Recovery Centre, surpassing the fundraising goal of $6000. This fund is poised to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those grappling with hurt, hunger, and homelessness within the community.