PhD position in Geothermal reservoir characterization of deep limestones in the Rhine-Ruhr region

Given the challenges in geothermal operations and the ambitious expansion plans for geothermal energy in many countries, there is an urgent need for experts with a broad understanding of geothermal systems. How can such systems be operated in the most efficient and safe manner? Within the ITN EASYGO, funded by the European Commission, the IDEA League universities TU Delft (TUD), ETH Zurich (ETH), RWTH Aachen University (RWTH), Politecnico di Milano (PoliMi) and 10 industry partners are addressing this question from different perspectives, integrating geology, geophysics, geochemistry, advanced modeling and process engineering. In this framework, EASYGO is looking forward to train tomorrow’s leading geothermal energy experts.

EASYGO is seeking 13 highly qualified and enthusiastic individuals holding a relevant Master degree (or equivalent) to conduct state-of-the-art rese- arch within the projects specified below. Please find additional information on EASYGO as well as detailed project descriptions on www.idealeague.org/geothermal-energy and do not hesitate to contact the associated supervisors in case of questions. Successful applicants will conduct their research work at two universities and in close collaboration with industrial partners. They will also benefit from the various training and networking opportunities within the ITN and large-scale infrastructure by the consortium partners across Europe.

In this project, the successful applicant will conduct novel approaches towards the quantitative assessment of geological, geophysical and geomechanical distribution and properties for an integrated 3-D geometric and geothermal reservoir model. Our main focus will be on the evaluation of typical fracture networks in limestones as targeted geothermal reservoir rocks in the Rhine Ruhr Region. Specifically, we attempt meter to centimetre-scale mapping of fracture networks and degree of diagenesis in selected limestone outcrops using drone and Lidar imagery, and to test the obtained reservoir characteristics in existing underground infrastructures of the Fraunhofer TRUDI laboratory and the new Weisweiler geothermal test site. A close cooperation with the newly founded Fraunhofer Institution for Energy Infrastructures and Geothermal Energy (IEG) and RWE Power AG will be an integral part of the project.

How to apply

Please apply for maximum 3 positions within the EASYGO project and indicate on each application all other applications and a clear order of preference. Please submit your application no later than December 9, 2020 to geo.sek@emr.rwth-aachen.de as a PDF file named EASYGO_12_Lastname_Firstname.pdf containing a CV, motivation letter, certificates and a list of courses/study plan with grades including range, highlight the most important courses for the position. An English language certificate and certificates of practical experience are desirable. Please note that this file will be shared with members of the EASYGO recruitment committee at all four participating IDEA League universities and one industry representative. Women are particularly encouraged to apply. Please be aware of the ITN mobility rule, which says: you must not have resided or carried out your main activity (e.g. work, studies) in the country where you will be recruited for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately before the recruitment date.

Your tasks

• Research towards high-resolution 3-D models of target outcrops
• Geophysical, geomechanical and geological characterization of Devonian and Carboniferous limestones in the region, including fluid migration analysis
• Integrated reservoir modelling comparing outcrop and underground well data
• Research secondment at Fraunhofer IEG (Prof. Rolf Bracke) and industry secondment at RWE Power AG (Dr. Jens Hannes)
• Active participation in the various training and networking opportunities provided by EASYGO and the IDEA League doctoral school
• Presentation of own research at selected scientific conferences and publication in peer-reviewed journals