About Us

The Geothermal Center of Excellence (GCE), part of the Energy & Geoscience Institute (EGI) at the University of Utah, operates under the leadership of EGI’s director, Professor Milind Deo. The GCE research endeavors are closely aligned with EGI’s core mission, predominantly focusing on facilitating the progression of energy transition initiatives.

History

The Earth’s vast reservoir of internal heat represents a significant opportunity for the development of clean, sustainable energy solutions. However, unlocking the full potential of geothermal energy necessitates a nuanced understanding of geological processes and continuous innovation. Formed to address this need, the Geothermal Center of Excellence, housed at the University of Utah’s Energy & Geoscience Institute, serves as a hub for geothermal research, education, and industry collaboration.

By fostering a collaborative environment, the Center accelerates advancements in geothermal technology, exploration, and resource management. Building upon the pioneering efforts of the Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy (FORGE), the Center of Excellence stands poised to illuminate the path towards expanding the role geothermal energy can play in the future energy mix.

Vision

The Geothermal Center of Excellence at the University of Utah’s Energy & Geoscience Institute envisions a future where geothermal energy is a fundamental pillar in the global energy matrix, driving clean and resilient energy systems worldwide. Our vision is to establish geothermal energy as a critical component of a secure energy transition, harnessing its potential through scientific rigor and engineering excellence.

Mission

Our mission is to advance the frontiers of geothermal science and technology through:

  • Innovative Research: Lead in pioneering and advancing geothermal technologies, leveraging scientific and engineering expertise to enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and scalability of geothermal systems.
  • Data-Driven Insights: Serve as a trusted source of research and analysis, providing data-driven insights to inform decisions and positively shape the development of geothermal infrastructure.
  • Collaborative Partnerships: Build strategic collaborations across industry, academia, and government sectors to foster interdisciplinary research, share knowledge, and accelerate the application of geothermal technologies.
  • Advanced Education: Develop a robust educational framework that equips the next generation of scientists, engineers, and policymakers with the expertise to innovate and lead in the geothermal sector.

Our Team

Milind Deo

EGI Director

Dr. Joseph Moore

Research Professor

John McLennan

Professor, Chemical Engineering

Alan Walker

Operations Manager

No'am Dvory

Research Assistant Professor

Stuart Simmons

Research Professor

Clay Jones

Geologist

Pengju Xing

Research Associate

Utah FORGE Project Coordinator

Christopher Katis

Utah FORGE Project Marketing Communications Specialist

Rob Simmons

Carbon Science Initiative Director

Become Part of Our Team

Join with us in pioneering geothermal energy solutions, shaping a sustainable future. Together we’ll unlock Earth’s heat reservoirs for cleaner energy. Your expertise will help drive us toward efficiency and innovation, leading the way to a greener tomorrow. Take action now and be part of the geothermal revolution.