The PhD position we are offering is part of the CarbFrac project, an initiative supported by the Dutch government with the participation of industry partners. The main object of the project is to further our understanding of the mechanical and fluid flow behaviour of fractured carbonate reservoirs, both for hydrocarbons and geothermics. In past years, we have developed deep knowledge of geometry and properties of fracture networks in outcrops (Applied Geology), the mechanical behaviour of multilayer rocks (Applied Geophysics and Petrophysics) and advanced modelling of flow (Petroleum Engineering). With the CarbFrac project we aim to take the next step and investigate multiscale fluid-rock interactions in fractured carbonate reservoirs. Such interactions are key for the understanding of dissolution and cementation patterns, widely seen as one of the most important challenges in the hydrocarbon and geothermal industry. The new PhD candidate will fit into a very dynamic environment with more than four PhD candidates working on related topics at the TU Delft, including outcrop analysis, rock mechanical deformation, and numerical modelling, and with 2-3 PhD candidates working in the Department of Structural Engineering at the Technical University Eindhoven, our partner in this research endeavour.

For the CarbFrac project we are looking for a young, enthusiastic candidate with a strong numerical background (programming and numerical solutions of PDE). He/she needs to be familiar with the chemical processes involved in carbonate dissolution and precipitation, and have strong understanding of geology. Some experience in running chemical experiments in the lab is welcome. Versatility and ability to work in a team is a necessity.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

The TU Delft offers an attractive, customisable compensation and benefits package, including a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers day care, before- and after-school care and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. Please visit graduateschool.tudelft.nl/ for more information.

For more information about this position, please contact Prof. Giovanni Bertotti, phone: +31 (0)15-2786033, e-mail: G.Bertotti@tudelft.nl. To apply, please e-mail a detailed CV and a letter of application by 15 October to Prof. Bertotti, Recruitment-CiTG@tudelft.nl. When applying for this position, please refer to vacancy number CITG17-25.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (the TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. The TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At the TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. The TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

http://www.tudelft.nl

Civil Engineering & Geosciences

The Department of Geoscience and Engineering performs top-level education and research aimed at finding answers to questions related to the current and future use of the Earth's natural resources and its subsurface space. It benefits from an international faculty and student body and is organised in five sections: Applied Geophysics and Petrophysics, Applied Geology, Petroleum Engineering, Geo-Engineering, and Resource Engineering. There is a very high degree of collaboration within and outside the department.

Because of its highly interdisciplinary character, the project will run under three Sections, Applied Geology, Petroleum Engineering and Applied Geophysics and Petrophysics. The three groups have a strong expertise in the domain of the characterisation and modelling of fractured reservoirs.