Mike Branston
Candidate for Vice-President
Currently New Energy Domain Lead EXD at SLB
I am excited to express my interest in the position of Vice President for the European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers (EAGE). With over 27 years of experience in geophysics and a demonstrated commitment to leadership, innovation, and collaboration, I am dedicated to advancing the energy transition, fostering industry-wide collaboration, embracing diversity of thought and empowering the next generation of geoscientists.
The global energy transition represents a critical juncture, demanding a shift towards sustainable and renewable energy sources. As a geophysicist, I have dedicated my career to developing technical solutions that address subsurface characterization and monitoring challenges, with a strong emphasis on renewable energy resources and carbon storage.
Collaboration within the industry is essential for progress. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about working with diverse teams and engaging with professional societies. Collaborative efforts amplify our impact, drive innovation, and create solutions that are greater than the sum of their parts. My involvement in initiatives such as the GESGB’s PETEX conference, the EAGE’s GET conference, the SEG’s SEAM CO2 consortium and my role in leading special interest groups within SLB underscore my commitment to fostering a collaborative environment within the geophysical community.
My work across various regions and cultures has taught me the value of diverse viewpoints and collaborative problem-solving. As Vice President, I will champion initiatives that promote diversity of thought, ensuring that the EAGE remains a dynamic and inclusive organization. The integration between the three EAGE circles—Oil and Gas, Near Surface Geoscience, and Sustainable Energy—is vital for a holistic approach to geosciences. Each circle offers unique insights and expertise that, when integrated, can lead to groundbreaking solutions for the energy transition. My experience across these domains allows me to appreciate the interconnectedness and potential synergies between them. As Vice President, I will work to strengthen the integration and collaboration between these circles, fostering a unified approach to our shared challenges.
Enabling the next generation of geoscientists is essential for the future of our field. As the energy landscape evolves, we must continually adapt our approach to education and mentorship. I believe in nurturing young professionals, providing them with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities to thrive in this dynamic industry. My work as an instructor for the EAGE and SLB’s NExT, alongside my mentorship initiatives within SLB, reflects my dedication to empowering future leaders in geophysics. By sharing my experiences and promoting continuous learning, I aim to inspire and equip the next generation to tackle the challenges of the energy transition with confidence and ingenuity.
As Vice President of the EAGE, I would bring my extensive experience, collaborative spirit, and commitment to nurturing emerging talent to the forefront of our organization. Together, we can drive the energy transition forward, foster a culture of collaboration, embrace diversity of thought and empower the next generation of geoscientists to make a lasting impact on our world.
I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to serve as Vice President of the EAGE and look forward to contributing to the continued success and growth of our association.
Timothy Tylor-Jones
Candidate for Vice-Chair Oil and Gas Geoscience Circle
Currently Senior Geophysicist and Team Lead at BP
I’m applying for this position because I believe the Oil and Gas Geoscience Circle (OGGC) plays a vital role in advancing our profession, supporting technical excellence, fostering collaboration, and ensuring geoscientists are actively contributing to the energy transition.
With over 21 years in global geoscience roles, including exploration, field development, and subsurface innovation, I’ve developed not only deep technical skills, but also a passion for mentoring, interdisciplinary collaboration, and strategic thinking. As a Senior Geophysicist and Team Lead at BP, I work across teams and regions, and I’m actively involved in developing people and shaping subsurface strategies aligned with low-carbon goals.
I joined the OGGC Committee in October 2024 and, while early in my tenure, I’ve been a long-time supporter of EAGE and its mission to promote innovation, knowledge exchange, and professional fellowship. These values strongly reflect my own. I see the Vice-Chair role as a chance to support the Chair, help build momentum across our initiatives, and bring visibility to the great work being done by our members.
If elected, I would focus on enhancing member engagement, particularly with early-career professionals, supporting technically relevant and forward-thinking content, and connecting our activities with industry challenges and sustainability goals. I want the OGGC to be a vibrant, visible part of EAGE, representing both the technical depth and evolving priorities of our discipline.
I approach leadership with openness, accountability, and the belief that lasting impact comes through collaboration. I would be honoured to serve as Vice Chair and help shape the future of the Circle in line with EAGE’s mission and values.
Benjamin Bellwald
Candidate for Vice-Chair Sustainable Energy Circle
Currently Senior Geoscientist at NGI
I am currently co-chairing the EAGE Wind Energy Technical Community, and have previously been a committee member of the EAGE Special Interest Community on Decarbonization and Energy Transition. With 13 years of experience in managing complex projects related to low-emission challenges, marine geohazards, geotechnical analysis for seabed infrastructure, seabed and subsurface characterisation, seabed engineering, and technology development, I am excited to contribute to and present myself in the role of Vice-Chair of the Sustainable Energy Circle. My skillset includes excellent leadership, complex data interpretation and integration, data acquisition, inter-disciplinary result dissemination and high-impact publication.
Eric Verschuur
Candidate for Publications Officer
Currently Associate Professor at Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft University of Technology
In a science and data-driven community like ours in geosciences, the importance of reliable and high-quality publications cannot be overstated. Since 1986, I have actively engaged in this field through various academic roles and collaborative research projects with industry partners. This dual experience has given me valuable insights into the critical relationship between our publications and the everyday work of scientists and practitioners.
In addition to physical and online meetings, written publications play a crucial role in facilitating communication among scientists and practitioners, promoting the exchange of innovative ideas. As our field is continually evolving, confronting significant challenges in energy provision, resource management, and subsurface understanding, the role of effective communication is of great importance. In addition, our communication methods are constantly adapting.
As Publications Officer, I have the opportunity to contribute to this vital aspect of the EAGE organisation. My goal is to maintain the high standards of our scientific publications while ensuring that our First Break remains a vital pillar of delivering insightful and impactful articles to our community. Additionally, I will strive to achieve a balanced approach between physical and electronic publications to best serve our members. My ambition is to make sure that EAGE publications can serve the needs of early career scientists, established academics and industry professionals in our geoscience community.
