TEAM PYTHEAS

Since 2009 our team of specialists from the Oil and Gas Industry works together to serve customers all over the world in the areas of exploration and field development.

A Pioneer in Global Exploration

Joerg, a visionary with a technical mind, embarked on his journey at the Technical University of Ilmenau, Germany. There, he delved into the realms of information technology and electrical engineering, earning a master’s degree in electronics. His early career was marked by groundbreaking research in signal detection, processing, and parallel computing.

In 1991, Joerg joined Deutsche Telekom, where he led innovative projects that pushed the boundaries of application research. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to Silicon Valley, where he served as an Investment Director at Deutsche Telekom’s venture capital firm.

Between 2005 and 2016, Joerg turned his attention to the energy sector, taking on leadership roles at VisheraNeft Ltd. and Standard Petroleum Ltd. in Russia. During this period, he conceived a revolutionary exploration method for hydrocarbons, leveraging advanced satellite image processing algorithms. This innovative approach has been successfully applied in diverse regions, including Peru, Sudan, Somalia, Russia, Spain, Guinea Bissau, the US, and many others.

As a serial entrepreneur, Joerg continued the development and practical application of his method upon returning to Germany. Today his focus is on the application of the latest deep learning methods and LLMs in the exploration process.

A Geological Visionary

Ongun, a seasoned geologist with a keen eye for subsurface treasures, began his career at the prestigious Istanbul Technical University, specialising in sedimentology and seismic stratigraphy. His 20-year tenure at the Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO) solidified his expertise, as he led exploration teams across vast regions, including Turkey, Ukraine, Syria, Iraq, and Kazakhstan.

His contributions to the field were significant, with a key role in numerous groundbreaking discoveries. In 2001, Ongun embarked on a new chapter, founding Merty Energy. This venture capitalised on his deep understanding of geology, geophysics, and seismic interpretation. The company quickly established itself as a leading provider of services to international oil and gas companies, working on projects spanning from Iraq and Syria to Russia and New Zealand.

Driven by his passion for exploration, Ongun ventured into the realm of oil and gas production, making Merty Energy one of Turkey’s pioneering private oil companies. His extensive research and publications on basin development, stratigraphy, sedimentology, and tectonics have further enriched the field of geology.

Ongun’s career is a testament to his relentless pursuit of knowledge and his dedication to pushing the boundaries of exploration. His visionary leadership and technical expertise have made a lasting impact on the global energy landscape.

A Global Energy Expert

Cetin, a seasoned geologist with a strong academic foundation, holds a BSc in Geological Engineering from the Technical University of Istanbul and a MSc in Petroleum Geology from West Virginia University. His expertise was further honed through certifications in Offshore Petroleum Geology from JICA, Japan.

His career began at the Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO), where he played a pivotal role in assessing the Black Sea’s hydrocarbon potential in partnership with BP.

Cetin’s extensive experience in exploration and production, coupled with his deep understanding of the industry, has made him a sought-after consultant for oil and gas companies worldwide.

With over two decades of international experience spanning the MENA region, the former Soviet Union, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Eastern Europe, Cetin is a master of strategic business development and new ventures.

His ability to identify opportunities and navigate complex international markets has been instrumental in securing lucrative deals and partnerships.

Cetin’s expertise in oil field services, particularly in drilling, workover, and cementing operations, is invaluable to the organisation. His guidance in contract negotiations and strategic partnerships ensures optimal outcomes for the company.

A Drilling Expert with Global Experience

Tuncay, a seasoned petroleum engineer, graduated from the Middle East Technical University, Ankara. His career began at the Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO), where he gained hands-on experience as a Well Site Engineer, working on production, development, and exploration wells across Turkey.

He quickly established himself as an expert in mud engineering, specialising in water-based mud systems.

Moving to the Turkish Petroleum International Company (TPIC), Tuncay took on leadership roles, overseeing the planning, organisation, and execution of drilling campaigns throughout the Middle East.

His commitment to safety and efficiency is reflected in his Well Control Certificate from the TPAO Research Center, accredited by IWCF.

With a distinguished international career, Tuncay has held key positions as drilling manager, operations manager, drilling supervisor, and drilling advisor.

His expertise has been instrumental in the successful drilling of hundreds of wells in Turkey, the Middle East, and Georgia. His deep understanding of drilling operations, well control, and mud engineering makes him an invaluable asset to the organisation.

Seasoned Geoscientist with a proven track record

A highly accomplished geoscientist with nearly five decades of global experience in the petroleum industry. With a distinguished career spanning over 20 years as Chief Geophysicist and 20 years as a Consultant Exploration Manager, Business Development Specialist, and Technical Advisor to leading international oil companies, Al-Salman, brings a wealth of expertise to the table.

Previously serving as the Chairman of the UK Offshore Operators’ Association (UKOOA) in 1999, Al-Salman, has held leadership positions in prominent organisations. He is an Emeritus Member of the Society of Exploration Geophysics since 2011, reflecting his significant contributions to the field.

Al-Salman‘s technical acumen is evident in his role as the head of the R&D division at VoxelVision, where he spearheaded advancements in 3D imaging technology. His expertise has led to numerous field discoveries, development projects, and successful production operations.

With a strong foundation in project management, work program development, and budget allocation, Al-Salman, has successfully executed projects across diverse geographic regions, including the UK, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Far East, and Australia.

His experience with companies such as Deminex UK, Arcadia Petroleum Namibia, Cathay Petroleum Singapore, ARA Petroleum LLC Oman, Starc Ltd. Equatorial Guinea, SHA Angola, and Oranto Petroleum Nigeria underscores his global reach and impact.

As the Founder and CEO of Sohian Natural Resources, Al-Salman, is dedicated to exploring and developing energy mineral resources.

His deep industry knowledge, strategic vision, and strong leadership skills make him an invaluable asset to any organisation seeking to capitalise on the global energy landscape.

Seasoned Petroleum Explorationist with a Global Reach

Nils N. Trulsvik is a highly experienced petroleum explorationist with a career spanning nearly five decades. He holds degrees in both Geology and Geophysics, providing a strong foundation for his work.

Throughout his career, Trulsvik has held key positions in prominent companies and has worked on projects across diverse geographic regions, including Norway, the Mediterranean, Africa, South America, North America, Northwest Europe, the Far East, and the Middle East. His expertise encompasses a wide range of activities, from large-scale basin analysis to detailed field development projects.

His entrepreneurial spirit led him to found Nopec, a company that successfully expanded its operations internationally.

In 1991, Nopec merged with PGS, further solidifying Trulsvik’s reputation as a strategic leader. His consulting work with the UNCTC in the late 1980’s provided him with valuable insights into the global energy landscape.

Trulsvik’s ability to identify and capitalise on opportunities is evident in his involvement with Fountain Oil Incorporated, where he led an investment group.

He also served as CEO of Force Petroleum and Interoil, demonstrating his leadership skills and strategic vision.

Presently, Trulsvik holds directorial positions at JP Kenny Petroleum Ltd. and UAE Oil Services Plc, contributing his expertise to these organisations.

His deep understanding of the petroleum industry, combined with his international experience and strong network of contacts, makes him a valuable asset to any organisation seeking to navigate the complexities of the global energy market.

A Skilled Geologist with a Focus on Innovation

Ivan holds a Master’s Degree in Geology from Ural State Mining University, specialising in mineral exploration, surveying, and prospecting.

His career in the field began in 2005 as a field geologist with Spezkrit in the Ural district of Russia. In 2007, he transitioned to Ural Oil & Gas Corporation as a Senior Geologist.

Between 2008 and 2012, Ivan served as Chief Geologist at VisheraNeft Inc., where he oversaw a wide range of operations, including field development, well workovers, and seismic evaluations.

During this time, he initiated pioneering work in special space-oriented exploration methods. In 2009, Ivan joined Standard Petroleum Inc. as Deputy Director, Chief Geologist, and Developer of remote sensing applications in Earth exploration.

In collaboration with Mr. Enge, he introduced subsurface modelling tools to identify petroleum and mineral deposits. He also represented and supported various companies from the Ural region at the Central Resource Commission in Moscow.

Ivan’s active participation in scientific workshops focused on geology and subsurface modelling demonstrates his commitment to continuous learning and innovation.

His strong technical background, combined with his hands-on experience and leadership skills, make him a valuable asset to any organisation seeking to advance its exploration and development efforts.

Mastermind of Biogeochemical Exploration

Colin, a world-renowned geochemist with a distinguished 49-year career in the mineral mining and petroleum industries, has pioneered the development of international biogeochemical exploration methods since 1979.

From 1985 to 1998, Colin served as the Head of Geochemical Research at the Geological Survey of Canada, where he was instrumental in a wide range of innovative geochemical studies worldwide.

As an independent Consultant Geochemist since 1998, he has continued to contribute to the industry, undertaking numerous commissions and contracts for leading mineral exploration companies, government surveys, geological agencies, and international organisations such as National Geographic and the European Union.

Colin has authored over 250 papers and a textbook on “Biogeochemistry in Mineral Exploration,” and has been recognised with several awards, including the prestigious Association of Applied Geochemists Gold Medal in 2014.

He remains actively involved in international university and scientific society lecture circuits, sharing his expertise with the next generation of geoscientists. Colin is the Founder and President of CDC Consulting Inc., a British Columbia-based company specialising in mineral exploration.

His extensive experience and innovative approach make him a valuable asset to any organisation seeking to advance the field of geochemical exploration.

Legal and Diplomatic Expertise

Bernd, a seasoned diplomat with a distinguished career spanning over four decades, holds a law degree from the Universities of Mainz and Marburg in Germany and a Master’s degree from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy in Boston, USA.
He has served in numerous high-level positions, including:

• Deputy Head of Foreign Minister Genscher’s Private Office during the reunification of Germany (1988-1991) • German Ambassador to Kenya (1991-1995), Estonia (1995-1999), and India (2006-2009)
• Director General for Global Issues, the United Nations, Human Rights, and Humanitarian Assistance at the Federal Foreign Office (2001-2002)
• Foreign and Security Policy Advisor to Chancellor Gerhard Schröder and Head of Foreign and Security Policy Department (2002-2005)
• Special Representative of the Foreign Office to Afghanistan and Pakistan (2009-2010) Since 2010, he has been the Managing Director of Ambassadors Associates – International Networking GmbH.

Recognised for his contributions, he has been honoured with the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany, the Marjamaa Cross (Estonia), and the Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur (France).

He served as Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Center for International Peace Operations. Bernd’s extensive experience in diplomacy, international relations, and crisis management makes him a valuable asset to any organisation seeking strategic guidance and global insights.