PhD Position in Subsurface Fluid Flow
Institute for Energy Technology
The Institute for Energy Technology (IFE) is an independent research foundation based in Norway at Kjeller and Halden. We are at the forefront internationally in several fields within renewable energy, health, environmental technology, petroleum, and nuclear technology. IFE develops new solutions for the industry and public sector in over 30 countries. We work on challenges mainly related to providing affordable energy and developing climate solutions. Our focus areas include underground storage of CO2, H2, and nuclear waste, reservoir studies for sustainable subsurface utilization, tracer technology and environmental technology to monitor environmental toxins. We have a diverse project portfolio being a partner in several major Norwegian National Research centres (e.g., SFI SWIPA: Centre for Subsurface Well Integrity, Plugging and Abandonment, SFI earthresQue: Centre for Rescue of Earth Materials and Waste in the Circular Economy, NCS2030: National Centre for Sustainable Subsurface Utilization of the Norwegian Shelf, FME HYDROGENi: Hydrogen Research Centre). We also host several EU-funded international projects.
The position is affiliated with the Norwegian National Centre for Sustainable Subsurface Utilization of the Norwegian Continental Shelf: NCS2030. You will be working in an interdisciplinary team with the Departments for Reservoir, Tracer, and Flow Technologies at IFE, the University of Oslo (UiO), the University of Stavanger (UiS), and the University of Lausanne (Switzerland). You will be engaged in a collaborative program on advancing the understanding and application of multiphase fluid flow, geomechanics, and chemical interactions in subsurface environments for the energy transition. Achieving the net-zero emission target requires the development of CO2 sequestration sites and exploring alternative energy, such as H2 and heat. Therefore, developing methods and tools that can enhance the capacity of geological sites for storage (CO2 and H2) and geothermal energy production on the NCS is becoming important. You will work in both modelling and hands-on experimental work. You will be involved in developing a numerical model for multiphase fluid flow coupled with geomechanics based on high-performance computing and modern GPU platforms, and you will design and conduct laboratory experiments simulating subsurface CO2 flow, and application of the findings to field applications. You will work with experts in tracer technology and develop real-life applications to demonstrate the importance of the new tracers to the industry. For training, you will be enrolled in a Ph.D. program at the University of Oslo that offers state-of-the-art courses and mentoring.
We look forward to your application if you have several of the following qualifications:
A Master’s Degree or equivalent in Geosciences, Mathematics, or other related fields
Fluency in spoken and written English, which is a prerequisite for communication within our international work group and the publication of results in international journals
Experience in numerical modeling
Experience in working with rock mechanics or fluid mechanics experiments
Quantitative skills, including scripting (e.g., Python or Matlab)
Experience with high pressure, high temperature experimental setup development and/or operational is highly beneficial.
Excitement to (learn how to) think across disciplinary and institutional boundaries
Personal qualities
Ability to take the initiative, be creative, and be solution-minded.
Good cooperation and communication skills.
Flexibility and self-motivation.
We offer
Exciting and challenging work in an interdisciplinary, international, and growing environment.
Participation in scientific projects of high international relevance
A stimulating work environment with skillful, experienced, and creative colleagues
Access to the cutting-edge GPU cluster and state-of-the-art experimental facilities
Well-established national and international scientific and industrial networks
Salary: Corresponding to Norwegian Research Council rates during the Ph.D. period and based on the degree of experience and formal qualifications after (if employment is continued)
The appointment is for three years with a possible extension
Please apply throug our job posting system WebCriter
IFE is subject to the Security Act, which includes requirements for the organization’s management of critical national information, as well as other relevant legislation concerning the management of sensitive information. On this basis, it is a prerequisite for employment that the applicant is suitable from a security perspective.
Note that relevant applicants will be asked questions that are necessary to ascertain this. This includes questions about ties to countries that the Norwegian National Security Authority (NSM) has classified as a ‘high-risk country’ in its open threat assessment. Background checks are performed as part of our recruitment process.
We view diversity as a strength in our work. Therefore, we encourage all qualified candidates to apply regardless of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or ethnic background. We place great emphasis on your personal suitability for the position.
About Kjeller: Kjeller is a charming Norwegian town outside Oslo, Norway’s capital city. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate Kjeller’s proximity to lush green spaces and scenic trails, perfect for outdoor adventures year-round. Kjeller is a prominent technology and science hub hosting several research institutes that conduct cutting-edge research in fields ranging from defense technology to renewable energy. Additionally, Kjeller hosts numerous technology startups and businesses, leveraging the expertise and resources of the research institutions to drive innovation and economic growth.