OVERVIEW Enhanced geothermal systems (EGS), or engineered geothermal energy, holds the potential to power more than 65 million American homes and businesses, and is the next frontier for renewable/clean energy deployment   https://www.energy.gov/eere/geothermal/enhanced-geothermal-systems).  The success of EGS hinges on the development and management of a permeable fracture system in hot bedrock.   New tools are needed that can verify the distribution of flow in stimulated fracture systems to produce an effective heat exchange.  In collaboration with the Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy (Utah-FORGE), we are developing an integrated well-testing toolset that uses solute, heat, strain, and fluid pressure data to monitor subsurface hydraulic parameters.  This toolset will permit tuning of the engineered system to optimize clean energy production. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The Department of Earth Science at California State University Long Beach (CSULB) seeks a Postdoctoral Fellow to advance well testing methods in support of Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS).  The position is a perfect opportunity for Earth Scientists and Engineers who want to merge field testing and theoretical models and is a rare chance to get in on “big science” experiments in geothermal energy.  The Fellow will design, conduct, and analyze the planned field experiments.  These activities will lead to experience in heat and solute transport, hydromechanical behavior in fractured bedrock, and the use of fiber optic distribute acoustic and strain sensing. Field experiments will be conducted at at the Utah-FORGE testing facility near Milford, Utah.  This job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job, however the anticipated division of time is:

• Design, simulate, carry out tracer tests at the Utah FORGE Site (50%).
• Write manuscripts and publish results in peer-reviewed journals, and present results at conferences (30%).
• Self-directed research and professional development (10%).
• Attend conferences and travel to collaborate with project partners (5%).
• Mentorship and knowledge sharing: assisting graduate and undergraduate students with research projects, guest lectures, etc. (5%).

The position is in Long Beach California (near Los Angeles), located a few miles from the ocean.  Long Beach has a wide variety of cultural and outdoor opportunities and enjoys some of the best weather in the world.  The position is funded for 15 months with potential for extension.  A professional development program is an important part of the Fellowship, with opportunities to collaborate with Department of Energy Laboratories and other Academic Institutions.  The Fellow will work with Professor Matt Becker at CSULB, the Conrey Chair in Hydrogeology and the current National Groundwater Association Distinguished Darcy Lecturer.

EDUCATION, SKILLS AND ABILITIES Ph.D. (within past 5 years) or Ph.D. all but dissertation in Earth Science or a related engineering field (e.g. Civil or Petroleum Engineering). Knowledge of fundamental transport and hydraulic processes in subsurface systems. Excellent written and oral communication skills (based on personal interview). Proficiency in data science tools (e.g. Matlab or Python). Ability and desire to pursue research both independently and as part of a team. Evidence of interest in teaching, mentoring, or outreach. Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position, be able to apply for a California Driver’s license. Be able to work in hazardous and sometimes uncomfortable field conditions at the well site. The position requires the candidate to provide verification of their right to work in the US upon offer of employment by presenting valid documentation that meets the requirements of the I-9 Form. Neither the University nor grant project will sponsor international Visas. Must be able to accept constructive criticism, prioritize workload, be professional and dependable, interact positively with others and possess a friendly and outgoing personality. Regular, punctual attendance required. This position is employed through the CSULB Research Foundation. Employment is at-will.