Yuan Tian

Student Profile

Yuan Tian, a dedicated fourth year Ph.D. student, embarked on her academic path in civil engineering with a specialized focus on geosystems. Now, she has found her academic home in the ESE department. With a background in subsurface-related applications and a drive to delve deeper into her passion, she aspired to pursue a Ph.D. at Stanford–in particular, Yuan was drawn to the numerous ESE professors working on similar challenges. Yuan's current research focuses on seismicity risks in energy applications like CO2 storage, showcasing the practical applications of her modeling skills. Engaged in an enhanced geothermal reservoir project, Yuan balances fluid injection to boost permeability with minimizing induced seismicity risks. 

Hailing from Shanghai, China, she appreciates the multicultural atmosphere at ESE, fostering connections with peers from around the world. She values ESE's inclusive and collaborative culture, where faculty expertise and diverse resources support students in their academic pursuits. One of these resources helped Yuan with her internship at Resfrac, a startup founded by ESE alumni, which provided practical insights into her research's real-world applications, solidifying her connection between academia and industry. Her interest in Computer-Aided Engineering (CCAE) companies reflects a potential industry path, emphasizing the value of simulations for practical applications.

With Yuan’s extensive experience at ESE, she encourages prospective students to reach out to professors and peers to gain insights into individual research interests and potential challenges. Her experience highlights ESE's commitment to providing a supportive and interdisciplinary environment, preparing students like Yuan for impactful careers in academia or industry.