In this project, we address multi-scale geophysical imaging, monitoring and forecasting of induced seismicity, aiming to improve the forecasting of ground motion in Groningen caused by possible future earthquakes. This requires understanding the onset of seismic activity, the propagation of seismic waves through the subsurface and how these waves lead to ground motion. For this purpose, we develop a new forecasting methodology which combines laboratory experiments, seismic modelling and seismic imaging/monitoring. This research will contribute to a better understanding of the relation between human intervention in the subsurface and its effects at the Earth's surface. The following four positions for PhD-candidates are available.

1. Early detection of stress changes, failure and seismicity in rocks using acoustic techniques: experimental project to investigate the potential of detecting and forecasting in time and location the onset of fracturing and slip along pre-existing faults and to establish in the laboratory the empirical relations between the moment tensor of the earthquakes and their radiation characteristics.

2. Methodology for layer-specific imaging and monitoring: development of tools based on seismic interferometry and Marchenko redatuming for characterization and monitoring of layer-specific velocities and quality factors using modelled and field data.

3. Full-waveform inversion of active and passive data: application of full-waveform inversion to earthquake signals originating in the Groningen subsurface; the candidate is expected to improve the understanding of the source characteristics and their locations, as well as subsurface properties.

4. Numerical seismic modelling: model stress distribution on faults, depletion-induced fault rupture, and near-field wave propagation; modelling of wave propagation from source to surface; development of finite-element and/or finite-difference codes.

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

If you have an MSc degree in geophysics, physics, mathematics, electrical or mechanical engineering, or geology with a strong quantitative focus, and proven excellence in physical and mathematical thinking, then you may want to apply to one or more of these positions. The candidate 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 candidate should possess excellent writing and verbal communication skills in English, and be a fast learner with a broad interest. Specific requirements for the different positions are provided at the Deep Image project website http://www.tudelft.nl/ceg/DeepImage.

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/