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.”