Young researchers shine in Grand Challenge

With the spotlight on developing young talent, the Saudi Aramco EXPEC Advanced Research Center (EXPEC ARC) recently conducted a competition designed to give young researchers an opportunity to hone their presentation skills, develop ties between individuals and recognize exceptional talent while also stimulating creativity.

For the ‘Grand Challenge’ competition, EXPEC ARC invited young researchers who have contributed to the development of innovative concepts in their area of technical interest to present their ideas. The challenge is one of the initiatives in EXPEC ARC’s Young Researcher Program.

“Being relatively new to EXPEC ARC, this was a wonderful way to get involved with others outside my division and present my work for the first time to a multidisciplinary forum of department colleagues,” said Salma Sinan, a geophysicist. “My fellow competitors gave excellent presentations. I am honored to be among the selected group and to have the support of my colleagues and management.”

This year’s competition was held in two rounds: an initial qualifying round and the final round. There were 16 participants in the initial round; each had 10 minutes to deliver a presentation on their innovative idea. The presentations were expected to be technically sound, innovative, well prepared, and professionally designed and delivered. A judging committee consisting of EXPEC ARC’s manager and seven chief technologists evaluated the presentations.

“During the judging process, it was remarkable to witness such a rich and diverse pipeline of intellect at EXPEC ARC,” said Ali A. Al-Meshari, acting EXPEC ARC manager. “Such competitions are constructive in further challenging our young professionals, in addition to knowledge sharing across the department.”