The Reservoir Simulation Research Group’s scientific research program is part of the Chemical and Petroleum Engineering Department, at the Schulich School of Engineering, University of Calgary. Our research concentrates on mathematical modeling, numerical methods, scientific computing, computer simulation, parallel computing, and the supporting mathematical analysis of partial differential equations arising from energy and environmental modeling.

This includes:

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  • Derivation of physical and mathematical models based on field data, laboratory experiments, and geologists’ knowledge;
  • Upscaling from geomodels to reservoir simulation models;
  • Development and study of high order and accurate numerical methods (e.g., finite volumes and finite elements);
  • Development and analysis of linear and nonlinear solvers (new preconditioners, solvers, parallelization technology, and solution schemes);
  • Benchmarking, validation, and applications;
  • Reservoir simulation software development. The current research focuses on modeling and simulation of advanced recovery processes CSS, SAGD, ES-SAGD, and VAPEX for heavy oil/bitumen reservoirs using the best data available for the fluid and reservoir properties.

Our research is meant to be practical in nature and address issues specifically identified by the energy industry.  We work to understand the physics of a reservoir and the mechanisms of the recovery processes needed. This involves the development of mathematical models and simulation software.  The models we create help the oil and gas industry to make better decisions about recovery processes, decisions that reduce environmental impact while improving economical outcomes. Canadians want to see cleaner recovery processes and demand our work because it supports the development of clean recovery processes. We are proud to help move Alberta’s oil industry along this path – respecting the role our natural resources play in our economy while giving equal respect to the environment. Our strategy is to build a large team of top graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, research assistants and research associates who are dedicated to the goals of the project. The current team has 90 members who work to perform innovative research. We have a large established industrial consortium, with members as far back as 2007.

This is a collaborative project; it takes many good minds to have leading edge world-class outcomes. We want our work to be reviewed, challenged, and recognized as the most reliable, accurate reservoir simulation work in the world.  This work is demanding and requires a significant level of collaboration and trust between our research group and our industry partners.  We have this kind of relationship with our partners and we are proud of our ability to attain the goals we set out to achieve.