He has more than 15 years of research experience in both academia and the industry. He has managed research projects for the Department of Energy, DOI Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enhancement, National Science Foundation, National Academy of Sciences and several private entities such as major operators and service companies. His industry experience is in the areas of drilling, well control, near wellbore geomechanics, well completion, and well construction. Salehi is the author of several technical papers and editor and reviewer of several technical journals. His recent SPE leadership roles include chairman of SPE Evangeline Section, chairman of finance for SPE Formation Damage Conference, and officer positions with Oklahoma City Section.