This PhD study will focus on geohydrochemical processes, that are often responsible for decreasing production or injection rates. Clogging processes can be divided into (1) physical, (2) chemical, and (3) biological processes and be studied by analysing fluid and solid samples as well as operational data. We aim to monitor and investigate hydrogeochemical processes and their interaction in real time at geothermal sites. Monitoring will take place during production and cold injection in the reservoir as well as in the surface infrastructure on-site. Modeling thermo-hydraulic-geochemical processes will be an integral part of the study. Concepts will be developed to avoid hydrogeochemical processes negatively affecting efficient long-term operation. Eventually, data from different geothermal sites will be compared in the Netherlands in cooperation with the industry partner Hydreco Geomec.

Secondment stays of several months are foreseen at ETH Zurich to further investigate hydrogeochemical processes with a focus on the influence of CO2 in the reservoir/CO2 injection and with the industry partner Hydreco Geomec to compare results with data from geothermal reservoirs across Netherlands.

As a PhD candidate, you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate school. TU Delft's graduate school provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. Please click here for more information.

We seek a candidate with an MSc degree in (preferably) geoscience/(hydro)geology and with proven excellence in physical and mathematical thinking. Moreover, the candidate should be a good communicator, have broad interests and learn quickly.

Previous knowledge or experience in hydro/geochemistry, geothermal data interpretation would be advantageous.

In particular, we are looking for a candidate with the following knowledge and skills:

• Independent, self-motivated, reliable, and eager to learn.
• Ability to work in a project team and take leadership and responsibility for different research tasks.
• An excellent command of English and good academic writing and presentation skills.

If your mother language is not English and you do not hold a degree from an institution in which English is the language of instruction, you must submit proof of English proficiency from either TOEFL (minimum total score of 100) or IELTS (minimum total score of 7.0). Proof of English language proficiency certificates older than two years are not accepted.   

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers PhD-candidates a 4-year contract, with an official go/no go progress assessment after one year. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2395 per month in the first year to € 3061 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation.

During the first three years, the salary will be covered via the Marie Curie Project allowances.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

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Faculty Civil Engineering & Geosciences

The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology, and delta technology. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource depletion, urbanisation and the availability of clean water, conducted  in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced that Open Science helps to achieve our goals and supports its scientists in integrating Open Science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences.

Department
The PhD candidate is hosted by the Department of Geoscience & Engineering, which is part of the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences (CEG). The faculty of CEG is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied Earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology and delta technology. The research covers global social issues and is closely connected to education as well as the work of a wide range of knowledge institutions. CEG is convinced that Open Science helps to realise these goals and supports its scientists in integrating Open Science in their research practice

Within the faculty of CEG, the Department of Geoscience & Engineering conducts research that should contribute to "Responsible use of the Geosphere considering the impact on system Earth and society."