Prof. Dr. Baouche Rafik | Geosciences | Best Researcher Award
Professor at University of M’Hamed Bougara – Boumerdes, Algeria
Prof. Dr. Rafik Baouche is a distinguished geophysicist and academic professional with a profound impact on the advancement of subsurface geological exploration in Algeria. With a career spanning over four decades, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional expertise in seismic analysis, well logging, and petrophysics. His extensive teaching and research contributions at the University of Boumerdes have earned him recognition in both national and international scientific communities. His scholarly work has significantly contributed to Algeria’s oil and gas sector, aligning academic advancement with industrial growth.
Profile
Education
Prof. Baouche’s academic journey began with a state engineering degree in Geophysics from M’Hamed Bougara University, Faculty of Hydrocarbons and Chemistry, in 1979. He pursued further academic milestones, completing a magister program and subsequently a doctorate in geophysics from the University of Boumerdes with distinction. In 2006, he began doctoral studies in geology at USTHB and ultimately completed a doctoral defense in geophysics in 2015. In 2018, he successfully achieved university accreditation, and in 2023/2024, he earned the rank of Professor in Geophysics—marking the culmination of a remarkable academic journey rooted in dedication and perseverance.
Experience
With an academic and professional tenure extending from 1980 to 2024, Prof. Baouche has held various roles at the University of Boumerdes, including Well Log Analyst, Petrophysicist, and Lead Geophysicist. His responsibilities have spanned the use of industry-standard software such as TechLog, Petrel, and Interactive Petrophysics for the analysis of reservoir properties. He has played a pivotal role in seismic interpretation, log analysis, data processing, and fieldwork supervision. Beyond technical expertise, he has contributed immensely to teaching core geophysical subjects, mentoring students, managing research projects, and participating in multidisciplinary collaborations. He has authored numerous technical reports, presented at international conferences, and guided students on their academic paths. His leadership in supervising teams and publishing impactful scientific research reflects a commitment to academic excellence and national development.
Research Interest
Prof. Baouche’s research interests focus on advanced geophysical methods for hydrocarbon exploration, particularly in the interpretation of seismic data and petrophysical evaluation of reservoirs. His work addresses critical challenges in the Algerian Sahara’s oil fields, emphasizing methodologies that improve subsurface imaging, reservoir characterization, and the integration of geological and geophysical data. He is especially dedicated to applied geosciences that serve industry needs—evident through his long-standing collaboration with Sonatrach and other industry stakeholders. His scientific investigations often combine theoretical research with practical applications to enhance exploration strategies and resource management.
Awards
In 2024, Prof. Baouche was promoted to the prestigious rank of Professor in Geophysics, an acknowledgment of his academic dedication, research excellence, and longstanding contributions to geoscience education and industry. His work has been widely appreciated for addressing national energy challenges and contributing to Algeria’s economic sustainability through scientifically grounded oil and gas exploration strategies.
Selected Publications
Prof. Baouche has published several high-impact articles in internationally ranked A and A+ journals over the last five years. These publications have significantly contributed to solving industrial challenges in the hydrocarbon sector, particularly those raised by Sonatrach. Key publications include:
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Prediction of permeability and porosity from well log data using the nonparametric regression with multivariate analysis and neural network, Hassi R’Mel Field, Algeria
Publication: Egyptian Journal of Petroleum 26 (3), 763–778
Year: 2017
Citations: 148 -
Neuro-fuzzy system to predict permeability and porosity from well log data: A case study of Hassi R׳ Mel gas field, Algeria
Publication: Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 123, 217–229
Year: 2014
Citations: 83 -
Characterization of pore pressure, fracture pressure, shear failure and its implications for drilling, wellbore stability and completion design – a case study from the Takouazet
Publication: Marine and Petroleum Geology 120, 104510
Year: 2020
Citations: 59 -
Present day In-situ stress magnitude and orientation of horizontal stress components in the eastern Illizi basin, Algeria: A geomechanical modeling
Publication: Journal of Structural Geology 132, 103975
Year: 2020
Citations: 52 -
Modeling In-situ tectonic stress state and maximum horizontal stress azimuth in the Central Algerian Sahara – A geomechanical study from El Agreb, El Gassi and Hassi Messaoud fields
Publication: Journal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering 88, 103831
Year: 2021
Citations: 44 -
Sedimentological, petrophysical, and geochemical controls on deep marine unconventional tight limestone and dolostone reservoir: Insights from the Cenomanian/Turonian oceanic
Publication: Sedimentary Geology 429, 106072
Year: 2022
Citations: 40 -
Permeability prediction in argillaceous sandstone reservoirs using fuzzy logic analysis: A case study of Triassic sequences, Southern Hassi R’Mel Gas Field, Algeria
Publication: Journal of African Earth Sciences 173, 104049
Year: 2021
Citations: 36 -
Petrophysical and geomechanical characterization of the Late Cretaceous limestone reservoirs from the Southeastern Constantine Basin, Algeria
Publication: Interpretation 9 (4), SH1–SH9
Year: 2021
Citations: 34
Conclusion
Prof. Dr. Rafik Baouche exemplifies academic integrity, research excellence, and scientific leadership in geophysics. His lifelong commitment to education, exploration, and innovation has fostered new generations of geoscientists and strengthened Algeria’s energy infrastructure. By integrating advanced techniques in seismic and petrophysical analysis, he has elevated both academic standards and industrial practices. His remarkable academic evolution—from engineer to professor—and his influential research portfolio make him a highly deserving nominee for this prestigious award.