Martin Lozano, Petroleum Engineering ’18
Undergraduate Research Fellow
McBride Honors Program
President, Mines Chapter of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers
Describe your research work so that students from other majors can understand.
In general, I develop porous media technology to understand multiphase flow in micro-darcy environments. More specifically, I tested displacement efficiencies of surfactant solutions in fractured media to improve understanding of well interference phenomena as it relates to hydraulic fracturing in oil and gas. Currently, I am studying fluid displacement behavior in dead-end pore geometry.
Who is your research project mentor?
Dr. Xiaolong Yin
How did you find your mentor and get involved in research?
Two years ago, I found an opportunity to conduct research and looked for projects in the petroleum engineering department. Microfluidics captured my attention, and I emailed Dr. Yin to learn more about microfluidics as it relates to oil and gas. I found the subject interesting, and here I am now!
What aspects of your research work you like the most?
Being a research fellow is much different than being a research assistant. The fellowship allows me to implement my own ideas into my work and solve my own problems. The flexibility in tackling my own challenges also affords me the opportunity to work around school and my extracurriculars.
Did you pursue any opportunities available at Mines for funding your research work?
Yes! Prior to the fellowship, I found a grant via the Multicultural Engineering Program (MEP). This grant offered me the opportunity to learn about my research for a semester and then continue my own research through other sources of funding.
How has participating in undergraduate research helped you? Or what opportunities has it presented?
Through undergraduate research, I am exploring a verity of concepts that pertain to petroleum engineering. It serves as an extra opportunity to learn outside of class while trying to solve current challenges in industry. I am also surrounded by graduate students and faculty with tons of experience in the field, so I have the opportunity to ask questions and gain a bit from their expertise.
What advice would you give to a Mines undergrad who is thinking about getting started with research?
Find your passion and look for opportunities to expand on that passion! There are many opportunities here at Mines, so take advantage of the resources available to expand on your skills. Ask faculty about their research and how you might be able to help. You never know what opportunities might arise from simply taking interest in research here at Mines.
How do you spend time when you are not working on your research?
Outside of school and research, I strive to improve my leadership skills by being involved in the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers as president. In my spare time, I enjoy practicing the guitar and playing indoor soccer and racquetball.