Postdoc position in Numerical Modelling of Fracture Growth

The Danish Hydrocarbon Research and Technology Centre (DHRTC) at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) would like to invite applications for a 3-year postdoc position starting as soon as possible.

The group you will be part of is currently working on a project to develop new methods of simulating the growth of natural fracture networks over large geological structures, using a combination of linear elastic fracture mechanics and statistical mechanics. This will allow us to better understand controls on the evolution and geometry of natural fracture networks, and better predict the occurrence and distribution of such fractures in the subsurface. It will also allow us to generate more accurate and realistic Discrete Fracture Network models. We are looking for a new postdoc to join this team to help develop these algorithms and techniques to model fracture growth in complex geological environments.

  This postdoc offers a chance to join an expanding team, developing new techniques for understanding and modelling natural fractures. This project has important applications both in the Danish North Sea and also within other area such as geothermal and CO₂ sequestration. DHRTC offers the opportunity to work closely with industry to test and apply the new models. This position would therefore suit someone looking for a career in applied research and interested in helping to develop an exciting new area of geomechanics.

Responsibilities and tasks
The postdoc will be employed at DTU with the task of developing new analytical and numerical geomechanical models. The focus will be on modelling the propagation of fractures across mechanical boundaries and the effect of stress orientation on fracture growth. The position will also involve testing and applying the models.

Qualifications
Candidates should have a PhD degree or equivalent in physical science, engineering or mathematics and preferable knowledge of continuum mechanics.

Strong background in numerical modelling including designing and implementing new modelling techniques.

Some knowledge of geology, geophysics or geomechanics would be an advantage.

Object oriented programming skills.

Excellent communication and report writing skills in English.

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment is three years (from the date of employment) and will be based at DHRTC.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here. 

Further information
Further information may be obtained from senior researcher Michael Welch (mwelch@dtu.dk) or senior researcher Mikael Lüthje (mikael@dtu.dk).

You can read about the scientific basis for the centre’s activities here: www.oilgas.dtu.dk/english/Research

Application procedure
Please submit your online application no later than 31 December 2019 (local time). 

  To apply, please open the link "Apply online", fill out the online application form. The following must be attached in English:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Diploma (PhD)
• List of publications

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

  DHRTC is a partnership of five universities and research institutions: DTU, Aalborg University, Aarhus University, Copenhagen University and the Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland. DHRTC is established in close collaboration with DUC partners on all levels. Our vision is based on new, innovative collaboration between industry and universities in order to solve significant, cross-disciplinary technical challenges.

  Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear vision to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That vision lives on today. DTU has 11,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. Our main campus is in Kgs. Lyngby north of Copenhagen and we have campuses in Roskilde and Ballerup.