PhD candidate to work at the interface of geophysics and machine learning, with applications to energy, seismology, and environmental monitoring
Khalifa University of Science and Technology
Khalifa University (Khalifa University of Science and Technology) is a research-intensive public university in Abu Dhabi, UAE, with a strong focus on science, engineering, computing, and medicine.
Energy, Resources and the Environment (ERE)
Seismology (SM)
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to work at the interface of geophysics and machine learning, with applications to energy, seismology, and environmental monitoring.
The successful candidate will develop and apply advanced numerical and data-driven methods to better understand subsurface processes, improve imaging and monitoring, and support safer and more sustainable use of the Earth’s resources.
Research topics may include
- Physics-informed and data-driven methods for seismic imaging and inversion
- Time-lapse / 4D monitoring of reservoirs, geothermal systems, or CO₂ storage
- Machine learning for signal detection, classification, and seismic event characterization
- Numerical modeling of wave propagation and coupled geophysical processes
- Environmental applications such as induced seismicity, natural hazards, or groundwater studie
Candidate profile
Required:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Geophysics, Physics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field
- Good skills in numerical programming (e.g. Python, MATLAB, Julia, C/C++)
- Solid understanding of mathematics and numerical methods
- Very good written and spoken English
- Ability to work independently as well as in a collaborative, interdisciplinary team
Desirable (an advantage, but not strictly required):
- Background in seismology, exploration geophysics, or environmental geophysics
- Experience with machine learning / deep learning frameworks (e.g. PyTorch, TensorFlow, JAX)
- Familiarity with high-performance computing and/or handling large datasets
We offer
- A fully-funded PhD position in a dynamic research environment
- Close supervision and collaboration with an active international network
- Opportunities to attend conferences and workshops.
- Access to modern computational facilities
- A supportive environment for developing both scientific and transferable skills
Please send your CV to Dr. Fateh Bouchaala (fateh.bouchaala@ku.ac.ae).