PhD Position

Formation mechanisms of deep karstified fault zones in a carbonate reservoir

The Chair of Engineering Geology at ETH Zürich invites applications for a 3-year fully-funded PhD position in the area of modelling karst formation in carbonate reservoirs.

This project aims to use state-of-the-art numerical simulation to study the formation mechanisms of deep karstified fault zones in a carbonate reservoir. This deeply buried reservoir (>5 km depth) is featured with unevenly distributed, “bead-like” cave structures of variable sizes, as a result of corrosion processes during paleo-hydrological cycles. These dissolution cavities connected by fractures/faults constitute the major space for hydrocarbon storage. The strong heterogeneity over multiple length scales in the subsurface creates great challenges to the petroleum exploration and production. The key task of this PhD project is to develop/apply a coupled hydro-chemical model to simulate the karst initiation and evolution over geological timescales, and validate/calibrate the numerical model based on field data such as seismic tomography, well tests and production history. The important factors controlling the distribution of oil/gas storage and reservoir performance will be further explored to facilitate oil exploitation/production.

The successful candidate must hold a Master degree in Earth Sciences, Hydrogeology, Petroleum Engineering or related fields and be strongly interested in academic research. Knowledge and experience in subsurface fluid flow, reactive transport and numerical modelling are of prime importance. Demonstrated interests in karst formation are desired. Desirable aspects also include excellent English communication and writing skills. This PhD position with an attractive stipend according to ETH standards can be filled by the successful candidate in fall 2018 for a period of 3 years. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Dr. Qinghua Lei and Prof. Simon Löw in the Department of Earth Sciences at ETH Zürich, with frequent interactions with other staff of the Department.

ETH Zürich is ranked #7 in the 2019 QS World University Rankings. The Department of Earth Sciences has been consecutively ranked #1 for four years in the subject of Earth & Marine Sciences. The Chair of Engineering Geology consists of approximately 25 multidisciplinary scientists involved in a leading research and teaching program in quantitative engineering geology and hydrogeology. Detailed information about the Department of Earth Sciences and the Chair of Engineering Geology is available on the website: www.engineeringgeology.ethz.ch/.

For further information regarding the advertised position, please contact Dr. Qinghua Lei (email: qinghua.lei@erdw.ethz.ch), Engineering Geology, ETH Zürich. Complete applications should be submitted to Dr. Qinghua Lei via email by 31st August 2018, but are accepted until the position is filled. The application must include the following documents: 1) a cover letter, 2) a curriculum vitae which describes your complete personal details and career history, 3) complete course grades and transcripts, 4) digital copies of both Bachelor and Master theses, and 5) one representative publication (if applicable).