Roughly NOK 200 million in project support has been contributed by Statoil to the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters (DNVA) through the 20-year-old Vista programme.
This partnership aims to support and develop basic Norwegian research in areas which are highly important for the development of the oil and gas industry.
Support from Statoil goes to doctoral studies, post-doctoral researchers, project administration and funding of academic chairs.
Some of the industry’s most demanding requirements have been met through Vista, with IOR as an important area which was clearly defined in the original Vista agreement of 1985.
“We’re utterly dependent on access to able staff who can solve tomorrow’s challenges,” observes Ingve R Theodorsen, vice president for research in Statoil and chair of Vista.
“We also have a long-term need for new ideas, expertise and technology.”
Statoil’s needs determine the content of Vista projects, which today cover the four core areas of exploration, improved oil recovery, petroleum processing and environmental protection.
Research and technology development are important cornerstones for the group, which must have a focus on knowledge and expertise to succeed.
Challenges include mastering deep water, extremes of pressure and temperature, Arctic climates and ever-tougher environmental standards.