An alumnus of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST), Dr. William Ampomah, has received the 2026 Distinguished Research Award from the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (New Mexico Tech), United States, for his contributions to energy and subsurface engineering research.

Dr. Ampomah, who earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering from KNUST, is an Associate Professor of 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.

The award recognises his work in carbon capture, utilisation and storage, reservoir engineering and subsurface energy systems, as well as his contribution to mentoring the next generation of researchers.

Dr. Ampomah manages a sponsored research portfolio exceeding US$150 million, including major initiatives supported by the United States Department of Energy.

His research portfolio includes the CarbonSAFE Phase III project, the Four Corners Storage Hub and regional Direct Air Capture initiatives, which seek to translate subsurface science and engineering research into commercial-scale applications.

Dr. Ampomah has authored more than 150 peer-reviewed publications and technical reports, attracting more than 4,300 citations. His research spans geomechanics, reservoir simulation, hydrogen storage, carbon management and the application of machine learning to energy systems.

He has maintained his academic connection with KNUST and currently serves as a part-time lecturer at the University, contributing his expertise and international research experience to the training of students.

Beyond research, Dr. Ampomah has mentored postdoctoral researchers and graduate and undergraduate students through federally funded projects, helping to prepare scientists and engineers for careers in industry, government and academia.

His expertise also extends to public service and international standard-setting. He serves as a New Mexico Oil Conservation Commissioner, contributing scientific expertise to regulatory decisions on environmental protection and responsible resource development. He also contributes to International Organization for Standardization (ISO) technical committees involved in developing global standards for carbon management.

Speaking at a recent convocation ceremony, Professor Mostafa Hassanalian, Chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering at New Mexico Tech and a previous recipient of the award, highlighted Dr. Ampomah’s contribution to research, leadership and mentorship.

“Through his groundbreaking research, outstanding leadership, and commitment to mentoring the next generation of scientists and engineers, he exemplifies the spirit of this award,” he said.

After completing his undergraduate studies at KNUST, Dr. Ampomah proceeded to New Mexico Tech, where he earned his master's and doctoral degrees in Petroleum Engineering in 2012 and 2016, respectively.

Source: Adapted from New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology.