SPE Netherlands Scholarship Program – 2025 Award Announcement
Each year, SPE Netherlands proudly awards scholarships to talented BSc and MSc students pursuing studies in geoscience, petroleum engineering, geothermal energy, offshore engineering, and related fields. The goal of the scholarship program is to attract and support high-caliber students who will shape the future of the energy and subsurface industries. The scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate strong academic performance, active engagement in extracurricular activities, and a clear motivation to build a career in the geo-energy sector. Scholarships are awarded annually at the start of the academic year. Finalists undergo a personal interview, and the number of scholarships awarded each year is determined by the SPE Netherlands Board based on available funds and renewal commitments.
For the 2025-2026 cycle, SPE Netherlands received around 15 high-quality applications from students across diverse programs and backgrounds. After a thorough review and interviews with the top candidates, the scholarship committee selected three outstanding students who truly stood out in their academic excellence, motivation, and commitment to advancing the future of the energy sector.
We are delighted to introduce this year’s scholarship recipients:
Andrea Raes – Offshore & Dredging Engineering (TU Delft)
Originally from Belgium, Andrea is completing her MSc in Offshore & Dredging Engineering with a focus on emerging fields such as deep-sea mining. Driven by exploration both academically and personally, whether through sailing in challenging conditions or running half marathons worldwide, she brings a passion for responsible innovation in offshore and deep-sea technologies. Andrea aims to actively contribute to the global SPE community and help shape the future of offshore engineering.
Ada Vlasta Ciortan – Applied Earth Sciences (TU Delft)
Ada is a third-year BSc student in Applied Earth Sciences at TU Delft, originally from Romania. Alongside her studies, she works as a laboratory assistant, conducting research in Underground Hydrogen Storage. With plans to pursue a master’s degree and a long-term ambition to become a reservoir engineer and researcher, Ada brings a strong scientific curiosity and a clear drive to contribute to the future of subsurface energy technologies.
Michael Knott – GeoEnergy Engineering (TU Delft)
Michael is in the second year of his MSc in Applied Earth Sciences – GeoEnergy Engineering at TU Delft. After earning his BSc in Environmental Engineering from the Technical University of Munich, he chose to focus on engineering solutions for a more sustainable subsurface energy future. His interests span geothermal energy production, carbon removal technologies, and innovative reservoir engineering approaches. Michael’s long-term goal is to become an expert in subsurface energy systems and contribute to industry-driven solutions.
