Major Software Gift Drives Subsurface Engineering Innovation at Lyle

The SMU Lyle School of Engineering is pleased to announce a significant in-kind gift of advanced subsurface modeling and simulation software, greatly expanding the school’s capabilities in energy, mining, and geotechnical engineering. The software supports a full spectrum of applications — from conventional fossil fuels such as oil and gas, to rapidly growing renewable sectors such as geothermal, as well as mining engineering and geotechnical subsurface evaluation.

Developed by an industry-leading technology company founded by Vasili Shelkov, an SMU Physics graduate, the software has become a trusted platform used by major international energy companies as well as numerous mid-size and independent operators around the world. Its robust physics-based modeling capabilities allow users to simulate fluid flow, evaluate reservoir behavior, analyze geothermal systems, optimize mining extraction, and assess geotechnical stability with exceptional precision.

Integrating this tool into coursework and research at SMU Lyle will provide students and faculty with hands-on experience using the same technology deployed across the global energy and georesource industries. Access to the software will be managed through the Hunt Institute for Engineering and Humanity, with planned sponsored workshops in 2026.

“This gift represents a great contribution to SMU Lyle’s capability to tackle real-world problems,” Dr. Saeed Salehi, Herman Brown Endowed Chair of Engineering and Interim Executive Director of the Hunt Institute, emphasized. “Students and researchers will now have access to one of the most advanced simulation platforms available, empowering them to contribute solutions to challenges across both traditional and renewable energy, geothermal systems, and geotechnical engineering.”

SMU Lyle is thrilled to accept this generous contribution towards engineering progress, strengthening Lyle’s commitment to preparing the next generation of engineers and applied scientists — equipped with industry-standard tools, interdisciplinary training, and the ability to innovate across the full landscape of subsurface engineering and the energy transition.

About the Bobby B. Lyle School of Engineering

SMU’s Lyle School of Engineering thrives on innovation that transcends traditional boundaries. We strongly believe in the power of externally funded, industry-supported research to drive progress and provide exceptional students with valuable industry insights. Our mission is to lead the way in digital transformation within engineering education, all while ensuring that every student graduates as a confident leader. Founded in 1925, SMU Lyle is one of the oldest engineering schools in the Southwest, offering undergraduate and graduate programs, including master’s and doctoral degrees.

About SMU

SMU is the nationally ranked global research university in the dynamic city of Dallas. SMU’s alumni, faculty, and nearly 12,000 students in eight degree-granting schools demonstrate an entrepreneurial spirit as they lead change in their professions, community, and the world.