Joe Powell
Chief Scientist – Chemical Engineering
Shell Global Solutions

Joe Powell joined the Chemical Development Department at Shell’s Westhollow Technology Center (Houston) in 1988, where he has led major R&D programs including new technology for the production of Bisphenol-A, and innovation and commercialization of a process route to1,3-Propanediol. Dr. Powell has been granted 39 U.S. patents and several industry awards, including the Arthur Dehon Little Award for Chemical Engineering Innovation (AIChE 1998), R&D100 Award (R&D Magazine), and American Chemical Society Team Innovation Award (2000).

He is a life member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, and currently serves as chair for Area 12B (Pilot Plants) of the Process Development Division. In addition to his chief scientist role for the Shell Group, Dr. Powell leads a Hunters network for identification of new technologies for Shell, while also continuing his role in process research and development in programs directed toward chemicals, biofuels, CO2 capture, and enhanced oil recovery.

Joe obtained his B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Virginia in 1978, and a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, in 1984.