Post-doctoral researchers

Dr. Vadim Yapiyev 

Dr. Vadim Yapiyev is an environmental geoscientist with substantial field and lab experience. Vadim is an experimentalist with research focus on process based modelling using environmental tracers such as stable water isotopes and sensor (observation) data to track the fluxes and stores of water, energy and matter. Water Resource Research is primary area current research domain is Critical Zone (Science) and Land Surface Processes. 

Ms. Riza Nurbekova


Riza Nurbekova holds a PhD in Petroleum Engineering from Nazarbayev University Riza's research interest is evaluation of unconventional oil and gas potential in Kazakhstan. Research findings will include documentation and ranking of organic-rich strata (including their paleodepositional settings and organofacies, spatial distribution, and petroleum generation potential); b) common risk segment maps outlining the most promising unconventional plays; c) the qualitative and quantitative assessment of the unconventional reserves and estimates of the producing capacity; and d) a developmental risk assessment. Riza's research is supported by IAS graduate research grant and AAPG's Grant in Aid.

Katko JJV sponsored project

Dr. Syed Muzyan Shahzad 

Dr. Syed Muzyan Shahzad is a distinguished geoscientist and holds a PhD in geological resources from the Central South University (China). He is a seasoned professional with expertise in structure geology, paleo-stratigraphy, tectonics, mineral deposits, and hydrogeology. His research focuses on the geodynamic modeling of crustal and upper mantle structure and its tectonic settings, with a particular emphasis on mineralization and metalogenesis. Dr. Shahzad's research has also delved into the intricate relationship between tectonic activity and sedimentary basin development. His work has provided valuable insights into the formation of mineral deposits and the processes that concentrate metals and other valuable resources. His current research is focused on the mineralization, architecture and Paleocene-Eocene sedimentary successions of the Chu-Sarysu Basin.