Forty Under 40: Siddharth Misra, Texas A&M University

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Siddharth Misra’s first encounter with an oil field was as a child living in northeast India. “The vast expanse of machinery and gas flares was a spectacle that forever imprinted in my mind, sparking an interest in the mechanics of the oil industry that remains with me to this day,” he says. But it’s not just oil that sparks his interest. He is a coffee connoisseur who savors diverse flavors and has a passion for crafting electronic music.

Why did you enter the oil and gas industry?

“The oil and gas industry drew my attention because it offers the challenge and reward of working in a dynamic and ever-changing industry, and I knew that I would never be bored. I also wanted to be a part of an industry that is essential to the global economy and that has the potential to make a real difference in the world.”

Which of your professional achievements are you most proud of?

“In 2018, I was recognized as the U.S. Department of Energy’s Early Career Scientist, a prestigious award bestowed upon a select group of 40 scientists nationwide. This honor also came with funding for a five-year research project focused on advancing machine learning for fracture characterization.” 

What qualities do you think are necessary to be a good leader in the oil and gas industry?

“Firstly, a profound understanding of the latest technologies is a necessity, particularly in their application to address industry challenges. As a leader, you should consistently challenge the status quo, innovatively enhancing existing products and services. Excellent communication skills are indispensable. Patience and perseverance are equally critical, especially when encountering unexpected hurdles. Embodying transformational leadership is vital. You should inspire and motivate your team members.”

Who are your mentors?

“Professor Carlos Torres-Verdin instilled in me the essence of hard work and the prioritization of quality in all endeavors. Dr. Dean Homan’s commitment to applied research greatly influenced my career trajectory. He exemplified how to tenaciously pursue a vision, transforming it into something real for global use in the oil and gas industry. The mentorship of Dr. Chandra Rai, Dr. Carl Sondergeld and Dr. Jeff Spath was instrumental in mastering the nuances of thriving in academia while maintaining strong industry collaborations. Dr. Akhil Datta-Gupta’s tutelage has not only honed my technical prowess but also enriched my perspective towards solution-oriented research. In the realm of industry collaborations, Dr. Ashraf Al-Tahini has been indispensable, offering invaluable guidance, unwavering support, and fostering key connections to groundbreaking research within the sector.”

What are your long- and short-term career goals?

“In the short term, I aim to finalize and publish a technical book on the convergence of energy, AI and decarbonization. This project has been a couple of years in the making, with diligent material collection and now, it’s time for the writing phase. Looking further into the future, my goal is to channel my expertise to serve as an adviser to diverse E&P companies and governmental bodies. I aspire to guide them on the effective utilization of cutting-edge tools and technologies from AI to decarbonization, helping to balance energy security with environmental stewardship.”

What do you think young industry members have to offer that is unique to them?

“[Young] industry members offer a unique set of skills and perspectives that are inherently shaped by their experiences with rapid technological advancements and evolving societal values. Coupled with their digital proficiency is their strong inclination towards teamwork. They incorporate digital tools into their collaborative efforts, thereby enhancing overall team productivity. Furthermore, they tend to be driven by purpose and values, committing their best efforts to organizations that resonate with their personal ethos.”

Take a look at the rest of the Forty Under 40 2023 winners.