PhD Position in Seismology for Geothermal Exploration and Monitoring – Joint Program between UT ITC (Netherlands) and HUN REN EPSS Kövesligethy Radó Seismological Observatory (Hungary)
HUN REN EPSS Kövesligethy Radó Seismological Observatory (Hungary), together with Faculty of Geo Information Science and Earth Observation (ITC), University of Twente
The student will be primarily based at the EPSS Seismological Observatory in Budapest, with regular online supervision and annual 3‑month research visits to UT‑ITC. This setup ensures strong international collaboration and exposure to complementary expertise, tools, and facilities.
Seismology (SM)
We invite applications for a 4‑year PhD position in seismology, dedicated to developing and applying advanced seismic methods for geothermal exploration and long‑term geothermal monitoring. This international project is a close collaboration between the Faculty of Geo‑Information Science and Earth Observation (ITC), University of Twente, and the HUN‑REN EPSS Kövesligethy Radó Seismological Observatory in Budapest.
Combining UT‑ITC’s strengths in waveform analysis and earth structure imaging with IEPSS’s expertise in operational seismology and geothermal resource characterization, the project offers an inspiring, interdisciplinary environment and a strong cross‑border research network.
About the Project
The PhD research will focus on developing and integrating multiple seismological methods to improve geothermal reservoir imaging, exploration, and monitoring, including:
- Ambient seismic noise tomography for detailed subsurface imaging
- Receiver function analysis for crustal and lithospheric structure
- Earthquake detection and location, using classical and machine‑learning approaches
- Seismic anisotropy analysis to evaluate deformation, stress regimes, and reservoir characteristics
- Multi‑technique integration for improved geothermal exploration, hazard assessment, and monitoring workflows
The work includes field deployments, operation of seismic stations, extensive data processing, and methodological development, with opportunities to participate in ongoing research at both institutions.
Research Environment & Mobility
The student will be primarily based at the EPSS Seismological Observatory in Budapest, with regular online supervision and annual 3‑month research visits to UT‑ITC. This setup ensures strong international collaboration and exposure to complementary expertise, tools, and facilities.
Requirements
- Master’s degree in geophysics, earth sciences, physics, or a related field
- Background or strong interest in seismology and seismic analysis
- Motivation for field work, data processing, and method innovation
- Good communication skills in English and interest in international collaboration
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send their motivation letter and CV to both project supervisors, who are also available for questions regarding the position:
- Dr. Dániel Kalmár — kalmar.daniel@epss.hun-ren.hu
- Prof. Dr. Mark van der Meijde — m.vandermeijde@utwente.nl
Application deadline: March 28, 2026