Khoshbakht Yusifzade: A Pioneer in Petroleum Geology and an Iconic Figure in Azerbaijan's Oil History

Baku/03.10.23/Turan: Khoshbakht Yusifzade, an iconic figure in the world of petroleum geology and a revered personality in Azerbaijan's oil history, has passed away at the age of 94. His remarkable contributions to the field have left an indelible mark on the nation's oil industry.

Born on January 14, 1930, in the village of Pirshagi, near "Greater Baku," Yusifzade's journey into the world of geology began when he enrolled in the Faculty of Geological Exploration at the Azerbaijan Industrial Institute (now known as the Azerbaijan State University of Petroleum and Industry) in the late 1940s. Little did he know that this choice would not only shape his destiny but also alter the course of Azerbaijan's oil history.

Throughout his illustrious career, Yusifzade was associated with numerous significant discoveries and developments of oil fields in the Republic of Azerbaijan. Starting in the 1960s, he served as a senior geologist in various structures within Azneft, the national oil company of Azerbaijan.

Between 1970 and 1992, he held various pivotal positions, from senior geologist to Deputy General Director, in associations such as "Kaspmorneft," the All-Union association "Kaspmorneftegazprom," and more, contributing significantly to the burgeoning oil and gas sector.

In 1960, he earned his Ph.D. with a thesis on oil well and reservoir research, focusing on the effective development and operation of oil facilities in the southwest wing of the Oil Stones field. Later, in 1987, he earned his Doctorate in Geological and Mineralogical Sciences after defending his dissertation in Moscow, delving into the principles and methods of accelerated exploration and exploration in offshore oil and gas fields.

Yusifzade was widely recognized and honored for his contributions to the oil industry. He held the esteemed title of Honorary Oilman of the USSR, earned the academic title of "professor" in 2005, and was an honorary academician of the Russian International Academy of Engineering.

His extensive body of work included over 200 scientific papers, including 18 monographs and eight inventions. Under his guidance, more than 20 oil and gas condensate fields, including the renowned Azeri, Chirag, Guneshli, Shah Deniz, Kapaz, Bahar, Umid, and Absheron fields, were discovered in Azerbaijan.

In 2004, the Azerbaijani President appointed Khoshbakht Yusifzade as the First Vice President of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) for Geology, Geophysics, and Field Development, solidifying his role in shaping the nation's energy landscape.

Throughout his lifetime, Yusifzade received numerous accolades and awards, including the Istiglal Order in 2000, the Shohrat Order in 2009, the Emek I Degree Order in 2017, and the Heydar Aliyev Order in 2020. His contributions earned him the honorary title of Honored Engineer of the country in 2005 and the Heydar Aliyev Prize in 2019.

In 2020, he was recognized as an Honorary Professor of the Baku Higher School of Petroleum for his outstanding contributions to the development of the oil and gas industry, science, and education in Azerbaijan.

Khoshbakht Yusifzade's impact extended beyond awards and titles. His legacy lives on through the Khoshbakht Yusifzade Secondary School No. 112 in Pirshagi village and a tanker of the Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company named in his honor.

Despite his advanced age, Yusifzade remained actively engaged in events related to the development of Azerbaijan's oil and gas industry. His presence at the celebration of Oilman's Day on September 20, 2023, in Baku, underscored his enduring commitment to his lifelong passion.

The passing of Khoshbakht Yusifzade leaves a void in the world of petroleum geology and the hearts of those who admired his remarkable contributions. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of geologists and oil industry professionals in Azerbaijan and beyond.