CNPC USA Scientist Appointed Joint Research Professor at the University of Houston
Houston, TX — October 5, 2026 — Dr. Lei Zhao of CNPC USA has been appointed as a Joint Research Professor (non-salaried) in the Department of Physics at the University of Houston (UH), following unanimous approval by the department faculty.
The appointment reflects the growing recognition of CNPC USA’s technical expertise and professional engagement in corrosion, materials science, and energy-related research. Over the years, CNPC USA researchers have actively contributed to addressing materials and integrity challenges associated with demanding oil and gas environments, CCUS, geothermal energy, and other emerging energy applications.
Technical Focus
- ● Corrosion & Materials Performance: Evaluation of materials under extreme and demanding service conditions.
- ● Materials Selection & Well Integrity: Supporting reliable design and long-term performance in energy applications.
- ● New Energy Technologies: Research interests spanning CCUS, geothermal energy, and other emerging applications.
Dr. Zhao’s work at CNPC USA focuses on corrosion and materials performance under extreme service conditions, materials selection, well integrity, and new energy technologies. He is also actively involved in the broader technical community through professional organizations and standards activities, including AMPP, API, and ISO.
Strengthening Industry–Academia Exchange
This non-salaried joint professorship provides an additional academic platform for technical exchange, access to research resources, and the exploration of fundamental and applied research topics relevant to the energy industry.
The appointment also highlights the value of CNPC USA’s continued participation and technical contributions to the broader scientific and engineering community.