BRIAN J MCPHERSON

Brian J. McPherson is a Professor in the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering at the University of Utah. He specializes in geologic carbon storage, geomechanics, and subsurface fluid dynamics, with extensive research on CO₂ sequestration, enhanced oil recovery (EOR), and reservoir characterization. His work integrates experimental, numerical, and field studies to assess risks and optimize subsurface storage.

McPherson's research focuses on:

• Geomechanical risk assessment for CO₂ storage
• Multiphase flow dynamics in porous media
• Machine learning applications in reservoir forecasting
• Impacts of CO₂ leakage on groundwater systems

His publications emphasize carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, hydraulic fracturing, and subsurface monitoring methods. Recent articles frequently address uncertainty quantification and predictive modeling using Bayesian frameworks and AI.

He leads major DOE-funded initiatives, including the San Juan Basin CarbonSAFE project and the Uinta Basin CarbonSAFE II feasibility study. These projects focus on ensuring safe long-term CO₂ storage in saline reservoirs.

McPherson advises graduate students through thesis research courses and directs the SMART Machine Learning Initiative as an External Advisory Board member.