Center for Economic Geology Research

The Center for Economic Geology Research (CEGR) at the University of Wyoming's (UW) School of Energy Resources is a group of research scientists who apply knowledge in geology, geophysics, reservoir engineering, policy, and economics to explore solutions to challenges in Wyoming's fossil fuel and mineral industries.  

CEGR research scientists actively collaborate with industry, the state of Wyoming, local governments, and national laboratories to: 

  • Characterize Wyoming's vast subsurface resources for carbon dioxide sequestration, oil and gas recovery, and mineral extraction

  • Develop forward-looking strategies to assist Wyoming in achieving low-carbon fossil energy

  • Find opportunities to diversify Wyoming's economy to use all geologic resources, including options for value-added resources in present industrial waste streams

  • Screen and develop novel uses for Wyoming's distinctive geology, including energy storage and critical material development. 

RESEARCH PROJECTS

Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS)

CEGR has established itself as a leader in Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) research, particularly excelling in the critical area of subsurface characterization. Their expertise encompasses advanced modeling techniques to simulate CO2 injection and storage behavior within various geological formations.

CURRENT PROJECTS

Critical Minerals and Rare Earth Elements

CEGR excels in Rare Earth Element (REE) and critical mineral research, addressing key aspects of the supply chain. Their expertise extends from the initial stages of resource assessment, employing advanced mapping and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technologies to identify and quantify potential deposits across Wyoming.

CURRENT PROJECTS

Oil & Gas

Leveraging subsurface expertise, CEGR researchers specifically focuses on unlocking difficult-to-access resources, like the Mowry Shale Petroleum System, through integrated approaches that combine geology, geophysics, reservoir engineering, machine learning, and artifical intelligence. The team aims to reduce uncertainty and increase productivity to help production for the state.

CURRENT PROJECTS

Mission & Objectives

The mission of the Center for Economic Geology Research (CEGR) is to investigate solutions to the challenges in Wyoming's fossil fuel and mineral industries. CEGR research projects explore opportunities to use Wyoming's distinctive geology and resources in order to develop those opportunities, diversify Wyoming's economy, and to maintain competitiveness in a low-carbon fossil energy future. CEGR continues to pursue a wide variety of projects and research endeavors. While core work is focused on carbon capture, utilization, & storage (CCUS), CEGR has expanded to include projects relating to carbon dioxide mitigation technology, and critical materials & rare earth elements.

 

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MEET OUR TEAM

Learn more about the talented professionals leading cutting-edge research for Wyoming. 

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PUBLICATIONS

View and download recent publications and research briefs from our talented research team on relevant topics.

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LAB EQUIPMENT

The CEGR lab houses a suite of sample preparation equipment and analytical instrumentation useful for a variety of scientific methods.

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EVENTS & OUTREACH

View the SER events calendar for any upcoming opportunites to connect on projects in your community, online, or on-campus.

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NEWS

View the SER news page for recent and archived articles, project highlights, or mentions in the media.