We need scalable decarbonization strategies to not only reduce CO2 emissions but also capture and utilise the CO2 that exists in our atmosphere, that will ensure a circular economy!

Shubhangi Kala, our next pathbreaker, CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage) & Low Carbon Analyst at Rystad Energy, researches innovative ways to reduce CO₂ emissions, and enabling industries to transition toward a low-carbon future.

Shubhangi talks to Shyam Krishnamurthy from The Interview Portal about opting to do her PhD at UPES (Dehradun) on a DST-sponsored project that was part of an MoU with ONGC, where she explored shale gas resources in the Krishna-Godavari Basin for shale gas extraction.

For students, the world needs innovative tech driven solutions that are environment-friendly as well as economically viable, and you can be the one to create them.

Shubhangi, Your background?

My name is Shubhangi Kala, PhD, and I am a Geoscientist working in decarbonization and sustainability. Currently, I am a CCUS & Low Carbon Analyst at Rystad Energy, focusing on reducing CO₂ emissions and advancing the global energy transition.

I grew up in India in a family that deeply valued education. My parents encouraged curiosity, hard work, and independence. My grandfather’s dream of seeing someone in the family earn a PhD, combined with my parents’ love for learning, shaped my academic journey. They never differentiated between my siblings and me, always supporting us equally in chasing our dreams.

From a young age, I was fascinated by nature, rocks, and science, spending hours watching documentaries on volcanoes, space, and ancient civilizations. My curiosity led me to solving puzzles, asking “why?” and “how?” about the world, unknowingly paving the way for a career in Earth sciences.

In 12th standard, I studied Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology (PCMB), preparing for both engineering and medical entrance exams. My parents encouraged me to explore both paths, so I enrolled in engineering coaching. However, I quickly realized it wasn’t inspiring me. I wanted to pursue something I genuinely enjoyed.

After much thought, I shortlisted geology, which blended my love for science, nature, and discovery. I went on to pursue a BSc and MSc in Geology, drawn to its applications in sustainability and energy transition, eventually leading me to a PhD in Geosciences with a focus on carbon sequestration and climate solutions.

After completing my PhD, I got married, and my journey took a new turn. My husband, Viviyan Sharma, has been my biggest pillar of support, encouraging me through my postdoctoral research at IIT Gandhinagar on CO₂ sequestration in basalt rocks and later as I transitioned into my industry role at Rystad Energy. His constructive feedback and unwavering belief in my work have been instrumental in my growth.

Looking back, every challenge, late-night study sessions, and breakthroughs has shaped my career in CCUS and sustainable energy. My work isn’t just a profession. It is a mission to help industries reduce their carbon footprint and build a sustainable future. I hope to inspire the next generation to use science as a tool for change.

What did you do for graduation/post graduation?

I pursued BSc (Geology) and later did an MSc (Geology) at The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda. My passion for Earth Sciences kept growing, and I wanted to explore how we could use geology to solve real-world problems.

Later, I did my PhD in Geology at the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), where I worked on shale gas resources—an important unconventional energy source!

What were some of the influences that led you to such an offbeat, unconventional and uncommon career?

Looking back, my career choice wasn’t a single moment of realization but a journey shaped by curiosity, experiences, and inspirations. I was always fascinated by how Earth works—its landscapes, rocks, and natural processes. Every mountain, river, and fossil seemed to tell a story, and I was eager to uncover their secrets.

During field trips and research, I discovered my love for exploring nature, collecting samples, and analyzing them in the lab. Each rock or soil sample carries clues about Earth’s past, and understanding them felt like solving a mystery. This hands-on connection with nature made me realize that science wasn’t just about theories—it was a way to decode Earth’s history and shape its future.

Growing up in Uttarakhand, a state known for the historic Chipko Movement, I was exposed to the power of environmental conservation from an early age. I had the privilege of meeting Sunderlal Bahuguna Ji, a distant relative and one of the pioneers of the movement. His non-violent fight to protect forests and natural ecosystems left a deep impression on me. I began to understand that science and sustainability go hand in hand—that protecting nature first requires understanding it.

After completing my PhD, I took time to reflect on what truly fueled my soul and made a meaningful impact. That’s when I found my Ikigai—a Japanese concept meaning reason for being. The fields of sustainability, energy transition, and decarbonization resonated with me the most. I knew I wanted to dedicate my career to solving climate challenges, protecting natural resources, and contributing to a cleaner, greener future.

And that’s how I found my path—a career that is not just a profession, but a mission to create lasting environmental change.

How did you plan the steps to get into the career you wanted? Tell us about your career path

My journey into geoscience, energy transition, and sustainability was shaped by curiosity, perseverance, and continuous learning. Every experience, whether an internship, research project, or field study, expanded my understanding and guided me toward a career that truly resonated with me. From the beginning, I focused on building a strong foundation in geosciences, mastering advanced analytical techniques, and gaining practical industry experience. I understood that to create real impact, I had to bridge academic research with industrial applications, and this principle shaped my career choices.

Internships and Industry Exposure

My internship at Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) introduced me to geological laboratory techniques and geophysical prospecting methods. This experience gave me my first exposure to hydrocarbon exploration, where I learned the importance of geological tools, well logs, and seismic data analysis in the energy sector.

At Gujarat Energy Research & Management Institute (GERMI), I worked on integrating geochemical and seismic data to evaluate hydrocarbon prospects. This was a turning point in my career as I developed a deeper understanding of data-driven decision-making in geosciences. It was here that I realized how scientific research directly impacts energy exploration and resource management.

My PhD Convocation :

PhD Journey and Industry Collaboration

For my PhD at UPES, I focused on shale gas resources in the Krishna-Godavari (KG) Basin, specifically analyzing the Permian Kommugudem Formation. My research aimed to assess the hydrocarbon potential of these shales by evaluating their organic richness, thermal maturity, and gas-generating capability. Additionally, I studied their pore structure and brittleness, which are crucial factors in determining reservoir quality and hydraulic fracturing efficiency for shale gas extraction. I also worked on the following :

Unconventional Energy Exploration – Providing insights for optimizing shale gas production in India.

Reservoir Characterization – Helping industries understand rock behavior for efficient hydrocarbon extraction.

Environmental Risk Assessment – Offering data on potential contamination risks, leading to better regulatory practices.

UPES is not a conventional choice for PhD research, but for me, it was a strategic decision.

My PhD was funded by a DST-sponsored project that was part of an MoU with ONGC. This collaboration meant:

Direct industry exposure – Working with ONGC experts and gaining hands-on experience with real-world petroleum datasets.

Cutting-edge research opportunities – Access to specialized labs and field sites for shale gas studies.

Interdisciplinary learning – Bridging academic research with industrial applications, a crucial aspect of my long-term career goals.

Pursuing my PhD in Geology at UPES was a journey filled with intellectual breakthroughs, rigorous research, and challenges. My research focused on shale gas resources in the Krishna-Godavari Basin, where I analyzed their hydrocarbon potential, pore structure, and environmental impacts. Months of lab work, field studies, and data interpretation pushed my limits, strengthening my resilience, self-reliance, and problem-solving skills.

During this time, I:

  • Mastered advanced analytical techniques such as XRD, SEM, ICP-MS, and RockEval.
  • Developed expertise in geological interpretation, translating raw data into meaningful insights.
  • Published research in high-impact scientific journals, contributing valuable knowledge to the field.
  • Gained industry exposure through a DST-sponsored project under an MoU with ONGC, allowing me to work with experts, analyze real petroleum datasets, and apply research to practical challenges.

Fieldwork and Technological Adaptation

I conducted extensive field studies across diverse terrains, worked with geological software to analyze complex datasets, and kept myself updated with advancements in the field to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving industry.

Networking and Continuous Learning

Beyond research, I actively participated in conferences and workshops in India and abroad, engaging with scientists from IITs, ONGC, NGRI, and other top institutions. These collaborations broadened my knowledge, exposed me to cutting-edge advancements, and expanded my professional network.

My PhD Convocation :

Transition to Industry and Current Role

After completing my PhD, I wanted to apply my research skills beyond academia and contribute to real-world energy transition solutions. My postdoctoral research at IIT Gandhinagar on CO₂ sequestration in basalt rocks allowed me to focus on climate solutions and sustainability, bridging my expertise in geosciences with decarbonization efforts.

Moving into the industry was a natural progression. I joined Rystad Energy as a CCUS & Low Carbon Analyst, where I now apply my scientific expertise to analyze global carbon capture projects, clean energy policies, and decarbonization strategies. Each step of my journey, from fieldwork and lab research to industry exposure and interdisciplinary learning, has shaped my career at the intersection of geoscience, sustainability, and decarbonization. 

How did you get your first break?

One of the early milestones in my journey was receiving the V. N. Kulkarni Memorial Gold Medal for academic excellence during my Master’s in Geology. This recognition reinforced my confidence in pursuing a research-driven career and motivated me to push my boundaries further.

A defining moment came when I received the DST-INSPIRE Fellowship from the Government of India, allowing me to pursue a fully funded PhD. This was a game-changer—it gave me the freedom to dedicate myself entirely to research, collaborate with leading scientists, and publish impactful papers in international journals.

After completing my PhD, I secured a postdoctoral research position at IIT Gandhinagar, where I worked on CO₂ sequestration in basalt rocks—an innovative method to store carbon dioxide underground and combat climate change. This role deepened my understanding of energy transition solutions and set the stage for my next big move.

Wanting to bridge the gap between research and industry, I transitioned from academia to the corporate world by joining Rystad Energy as a CCUS & Low Carbon Analyst. Here, I apply my expertise to analyze global carbon capture projects, energy policies, and sustainable technologies, directly contributing to the shift toward a low-carbon future.

I transitioned to Rystad Energy after my PhD by choosing a research topic with strong industrial relevance during my postdoc, CCS in basalts, an emerging field in decarbonization. Students looking to move from academia to industry should select a PhD topic that aligns with both their passion and real-world applicability, as the expertise gained will shape their career path.

Beyond research, it is essential to develop industry-relevant skills alongside academic expertise. Since I had skills that matched industry needs, I was able to secure this role. Gaining technical, analytical, and communication skills can significantly enhance career prospects for PhD graduates transitioning into the industry.

What were some of the challenges you faced? How did you address them?

Every journey comes with its share of obstacles, and mine was no exception. Here are some key challenges I faced and how I navigated them:

Challenge 1: Finding my true calling – Science is vast, and pinpointing the exact field that resonated with me took time. I explored various disciplines before realizing that energy transition and decarbonization aligned best with both my passion and my desire to contribute meaningfully to the world.
Solution: I took on internships, attended workshops, engaged in discussions with mentors, and actively sought experiences that would help me find where I fit best.

Challenge 2: Balancing Research and Personal Life – The PhD journey was intense, often consuming my time and energy. There were moments of self-doubt, burnout, and overwhelming pressure to meet research deadlines.
Solution: I reminded myself why I started this journey in the first place. I found balance by taking breaks, traveling, engaging in hobbies, and staying connected with friends and family—small yet powerful ways to recharge and stay motivated.


Traveling as a hobby—finding balance beyond work, one journey at a time:

Challenge 3: Mastering new skills & securing resources – Research isn’t just about curiosity; it demands technical expertise in software, lab techniques, and data analysis, along with the ability to secure funding for projects.
Solution: I took online courses, spent long hours in labs practicing techniques, and worked with real datasets. I also actively collaborated with scientists across institutions, broadening my knowledge base and tapping into different expertise areas.

Each challenge, in its own way, pushed me toward growth, resilience, and a clearer vision of where I wanted to be.

Where do you work now? 

I work as a CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage) & Low Carbon Analyst at Rystad Energy. Rystad Energy is an independent energy research and consulting company that provides data-driven insights, analytics, and advisory services for the global energy sector. Our customers include energy companies, financial institutions, and policymakers, helping them make informed decisions on oil & gas, renewables, CCUS, and low-carbon solutions.


Life at Rystad Energy:

What problems do you solve?

I focus on Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS). My work revolves around researching innovative ways to reduce CO₂ emissions, and enabling industries to transition toward a low-carbon future. I analyze global CCUS projects, carbon policies, voluntary carbon markets, and emerging clean energy solutions like blue hydrogen and direct air capture.

I majorly work on-

  • Identifying and evaluating CO₂ storage sites for carbon sequestration.
  • Analyzing trends in carbon capture technologies and market dynamics.
  • Assessing climate policies and regulatory frameworks for decarbonization.
  • Exploring the feasibility of clean energy solutions, including blue hydrogen and carbon removal technologies.

What skills are needed for job? How did you acquire the skills?

  • Geology & Geochemistry – Understanding subsurface formations for CO₂ storage.
  • Data Analysis & Market Research – Working with large datasets to identify trends in CCUS and energy transition.
  • Communication & Stakeholder Engagement – Writing technical reports, presenting insights, and collaborating with experts worldwide.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving – Addressing real-world energy challenges and finding practical solutions.

What’s a typical day like?

  • Reading about new developments in CCUS and energy.
  • Writing analytical reports and presenting findings for industry professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders.
  • Collaborating with experts worldwide!

What is it you love about this job? 

I love that my work directly contributes to climate action. It allows me to apply my scientific expertise while working on real-world sustainability solutions. Being at the intersection of geoscience, energy policy, and technology, I get to explore innovative strategies that will shape the future of energy.

How does your work benefit society? 

Climate Change Mitigation – My work provides insights into reducing CO₂ emissions by enabling clean energy technologies. By analyzing the feasibility of these technologies, I contribute to the fight against global warming.

Supporting Sustainable Industries – By assessing carbon reduction strategies and market trends, I help industries transition toward low-carbon operations, ensuring they remain both environmentally responsible and economically viable.

Tell us an example of a specific memorable work you did that is very close to you!

One of the most exciting projects I worked on was exploring the natural hydrogen potential in India. Hydrogen is a clean and efficient fuel and understanding its geological sources could unlock a new frontier in sustainable energy. This project was particularly rewarding because it combined geoscience, clean energy, and sustainability, aligning perfectly with my passion for the energy transition.

Your advice to students based on your experience?

Be Curious – Always ask why and how and explore different fields.

Keep Learning – Read, attend workshops, and gain hands-on experience.

Don’t Fear Challenges – Every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow.

Find Mentors – Connect with professionals who inspire and guide you.

Think Big! – The world needs innovative solutions, and you can be the one to create them.

Future Plans?

  • Continue working on decarbonization, clean energy, and sustainability solutions.
  • Contribute to research and mentorship, helping the next generation of scientists and innovators.
  • Work toward scalable climate solutions, ensuring a greener and more sustainable future for all.