PhD position within the area of Rock Mechanics
The Department of Civil Engineering at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is seeking a candidate for a PhD position within the area of rock mechanics. The position is placed within the Section for Geotechnics and Geology and is part of the Flagship program: “Advanced Waterflooding of the Dan, Halfdan and Kraka Fields” based at the Danish Hydrocarbon Research and Technology Center.
Project description
From a novel concept of rock stiffness described as the combined effect of cementation and electrostatics, we aim to obtain a quantitative model for the effect of pore fluid on chalk strength and fracturing style. The study will be based on existing rock mechanical data supplemented by extra rock characterization where needed. The core scale data will be up-scaled by numerical modelling.
Responsibilities and tasks
The successful applicant will address the following tasks:
•A critical review of existing rock mechanical and petrophysical data leading to a clarification of which supplementary information should be obtained in relation to existing tests in order to allow an optimal interpretation with a focus on fluid effects on rock stability and IOR.
•A definition of a rock mechanical and core flooding test program for establishing an optimal rock mechanical/IOR model (these hypothetical tests are not part of the present proposal).
•An interpretation of existing rock mechanical data with a focus on IOR aspects, where data from supplementary analyses have been taken into account.
•An upscaled mechanical/IOR model of the Kraka.
The success criterion is an evaluation of the potential rock mechanical IOR effect on Kraka based on existing data.
Qualifications
Candidates should have a master's degree in engineering or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to the master's degree in engineering. A solid background in petrophysics is a prerequisite. Good communication skills in written and spoken English are required.
Approval and Enrolment
The scholarships for the PhD degree are subject to academic approval, and the candidates will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes of DTU. For information about the general requirements for enrolment and the general planning of the scholarship studies, please see the DTU PhD Guide.
Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be made by Professor Ida Lykke Fabricius in collaboration with senior researcher Michael Welch.
We offer
We offer an interesting and challenging job in an international environment focusing on education, research, public-sector consultancy and innovation, which contribute to enhancing the economy and improving social welfare. We strive for academic excellence, collegial respect and freedom tempered by responsibility. The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is a leading technical university in northern Europe and benchmarks with the best universities in the world.
Salary and appointment terms
The salary and appointment terms are consistent with the current rules for PhD degree students. The period of employment is 3 years.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Professor ida Lykke Fabricius, +45 4525 2162, ilfa@byg.dtu.dk
Please do not send applications to this e-mail address, instead apply online as described below.
Application
Please submit your online application no later than 23 December 2015.
Applications must be submitted as one pdf file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply online", fill in the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one pdf file. The file must include:
•A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
•Curriculum vitae
•Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (an official translation into English)
•Excel sheet with translation of grades to the Danish grading system (see guidelines and excel spreadsheet here)
Candidates may apply prior to obtaining their master's degree, but cannot begin before having received it.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.
The Department of Civil Engineering is a university department engaged in building and construction.
The mission of the department is to conduct an optimal combination of education, research and industrial collaboration together with innovation. The department contributes to establishing social and commercial value creation through the development of technological knowledge. Furthermore, the department cooperates closely with the public sector.
The vision of the department is to be one of Europe’s leading civil engineering institutions and thereby become a preferred partner in collaboration with businesses and institutions in the building sector.
The Section of Geotechnics and Geology aims to establish a coherent understanding of the importance of geological and geotechnical conditions for the operating principles of construction and infrastructure as well as form the basis for socially responsible utilization of natural resources, including Denmark's subsoil.
DTU is a technical university providing internationally leading research, education, innovation and public service. Our staff of 5,800 advance science and technology to create innovative solutions that meet the demands of society; and our 10,300 students are being educated to address the technological challenges of the future. DTU is an independent academic university collaborating globally with business, industry, government, and public agencies.
