Science4Steer is a joint numerical-experimental research project to understand the effects of time-varying gas production and (re-)injection operations in Dutch gas fields in the Rotliegend formation. This concerns in particular the Groningen field which has experienced increasing production-induced seismicity over the past decade causing serious damage and societal unrest. We will perform physical experiments to quantify rock and fault properties and microseismicity evolution under reversed and cycled stress conditions. In parallel we will develop advanced numerical simulation tools and perform computational experiments to gain in-depth understanding of the coupled flow and dynamic geomechanical response of gas reservoirs under time-varying operational conditions at a variety of spatial and temporal scales. The project consists of 3 positions that are focussed on the numerical part of the project at Delft University of Technology and 3 positions on the experimental part of the project (2 experimental positions at Utrecht University and 1 at Delft University of Technology). We are now advertising for the following 3 PhD positions at Delft University of Technology:

1. Characterization of the evolution of microseismicity, mechanical and acoustic properties, and reservoir rock under (multiple) stress reversals:  This experimental project aims to determine the expected effect and evolution of pressure reversal in Rotliegendes reservoir rocks or analogue outcrop materials on the seismicity, mechanics and acoustics of these rocks. We will include upscaled large-laboratory experiments (30 cm cubed blocks) mimicking real reservoir settings where fluid pressures on one side of a fault zone are cycled.

2. Modelling approaches to the accurate representation of the fault slippage mechanisms on various scales under dynamic reservoir pore pressure: In this project, we will develop nonlinear models for elastic and non-elastic reservoir deformation and fault response based on multiphase (gas/brine) flow and cycled stress conditions. We will focus on the reproduction of experimental results at lab scale and the upscaling of these results to the reservoir scale.

3. Development of  a multiscale simulation of induced-seismicity predictions for heterogeneous dynamic geo-models. In this project, we will develop a a consistent conservative discrete resolved systems for coupled flow-geomechanics equations. On top of this, we will develop a dynamic multiscale method in space and time.

   In your application, indicate your order of preference for one or more of these positions.

For position 1 an MSc degree in e.g. geophysics, physics, mathematics, electrical or mechanical engineering, or geology with a strong quantitative focus, and proven excellence in physical and mathematical thinking is required.

For positions 2 and 3 an MSc degree in one of the engineering disciplines, including (but not limited to) Civil, Mechanical and Petroleum Engineering, as well as Applied Mathematics is required. Our strict requirement is that the candidates must have strong scientific skills on computational methods, numerical analyses, and programming. Candidates with good background on physics of porous media flow, poromechanics, and geo-mechanics will be preferred.

All 3 candidates should be able to work independently but also within the project team, develop new initiatives and have the ambition to develop a research career. The candidates should possess excellent writing and verbal communication skills in English, and be a fast learner with a broad interest. More specific requirements for the different positions are provided at the Science4Steer project website (http://www.tudelft.nl/ceg/Science4Steer).

Fixed-term contract: 48 months.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, 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 childcare 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. 

The minimum salary is your salary in your first year. The salary mentioned as the maximum will be your salary in your fourth year.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. 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  www.graduateschool.tudelft.nl for more information. 

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (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. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

https://www.tudelft.nl

Faculty Civil Engineering and Geosciences

The Faculty of Civil Engineering and 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. 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. 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.

The Geoscience Departments at The Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences of Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) received funding from The Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO) for five integrated projects for innovative research into the effect of human interventions in the deep subsurface. The research programme seeks to improve the fundamental understanding of dynamics resulting from human interventions such as gas production and geological storage of CO2.

https://www.tudelft.nl/en/ceg/