My name is Xu; I’m a Research Geophysicist working with the Expec Advanced Research Centre. I’ve been with Saudi Aramco for almost three years now and I am originally from Tali in China.

My role as a Geophysicist is to find better ways to image the sub -surface of the earth in order to detect hydrocarbons underground. We have recently come up with a new automatic fault-detection technology and with the help of that kind of technology we can find fractures or faults underground without any human effort.

As a young scientist in Expec ARC we have the opportunity to choose whatever subject we like and we have a lot of training opportunities both inside and outside of the company.

What’s great about working with Saudi Aramco is that we are encouraged to innovate. When you come up with a new idea you are always supported by your management to put it in to practice.

When I was doing my Masters I got the chance to spend four months here and after those four months I found myself in love with this place. I really enjoy the outdoor life here; the air quality is good and during the day we go to the beach or the desert. During the evening it is cool and we go for a walk around the golf course – life here is really pleasant.

There is a growing Chinese community here and they are helpful and warm-hearted. I’d recommend it to anyone.