Research Assistant (M/F/D) For The Simbol Project (Eg 13)

The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Bochum University of Applied Sciences (in the field of Geothermal Energy) has a vacancy to fill a position at the earliest possible date for a

Research Assistant (m/f/d) for the SimBoL project (EG 13)

to be filled for a fixed-term position.

Geothermal energy will play an important role in the decarbonisation of the heating sector. A precise understanding of the subsurface is crucial for the optimal planning and operation of geothermal plants.

Until now, complex drilling methods have been used to determine the relevant thermal, hydraulic and mechanical parameters in the laboratory using drill cores from the reservoir units. However, the conventional method is cost-intensive.

In the SimBoL project, which is being funded until 31 December 2026, a method is to be used that utilises drilling cuttings, which are already produced by conventional drilling methods, thus eliminating the need for costly drill cores. These cuttings are analysed using micro-computed tomography in order to derive numerical models. This makes it possible to precisely determine the macroscopic rock parameters. The parameters obtained will then be transferred to the reservoir scale using upscaling methods. On this basis, dynamic thermal-hydraulic-mechanical coupled models (THM models) of the reservoir can be created in order to carry out long-term forecasts of geothermal performance and risk quantification.

We are looking for support for our team in the field of upscaling and thermal-hydraulic-mechanical coupled modelling.

Your tasks:

• Familiarisation with the topic of THM modelling and the methods of upscaling parameters to the reservoir scale
• Creation of THM-coupled models and, if necessary, adaptation of simulation codes
• Carrying out simulation calculations and analysing the simulation results
• Carrying out further research tasks that arise in the course of the project
• Preparation of scientific publications for the publication of the project results in English-language peer-reviewed journals 
• Presentation of the project results at scientific conferences
• Support in the preparation of project reports
• Support in the preparation of research proposals

Your profile:

• Completed university degree (Uni-Diplom or master`s degree) in the fields of applied geosciences, geothermal energy, geomechanics, hydrogeology, geophysics or similar
• Experience in thermal-hydraulic-mechanical coupled numerical modelling desirable 
• Initial experience in programming desirable (e.g. C++, Python, Matlab)
• Ideally very good knowledge of modelling with one of the following software tools MOOSE (e.g. Golem, Tiger), OpenGeoSys, FEFLOW, COMSOL or comparable
• High level of organisation, reliability and initiative
• Willingness to familiarise yourself with new subject areas 
• Very good knowledge of English is desirable

What we offer:

• A diverse and varied job
• The opportunity for personal development through extensive training and further education programmes 
• Collaboration in a collegial, interdisciplinary project team
• Flexible working hours
• Company-regulated teleworking and home office options
• Support in balancing family and career
• Opportunity to do a doctorate in the subject area of the project

The position is graded according to pay group 13 of the collective agreement for the public service of the federal states (TV-L). It is a part-time position of 75 % (currently 29,87 hours).

Based on our equal opportunities concept, we would like to see more female academics at our university and are therefore particularly pleased to receive applications from women. Applicants with children are welcome - Bochum University of Applied Sciences is certified as a family-friendly university. Applications from suitable severely disabled persons or persons of equal status within the meaning of SGB IX are expressly welcome.

Prof. Dr Welsch will be happy to answer any questions you may have (Tel.: 0234 32-10276 or e-mail: bastian.welsch@hs-bochum.de)

Applications will be accepted until 23.06.2024 exclusively via our online application portal at www.hs-bochum.de/stellen.