The Swiss Seismological Service (SED) at the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences is the agency responsible for earthquakes monitoring as well as hazard and risk assessment in Switzerland. The SED conducts a broad range of fundamental and applied research in earthquake science and specifically has been and is a leading partner in several European and international projects in the field of induced seismicity risk and multi-risk. 

In the context of the CITRU project and the CETP CO2SafeQuest project, we intend to further develop models for feasibility study of CO2 injection in Switzerland as well as to investigate physics-based processes leading to fault reactivation and leakage during storage operations. The results of the numerical modeling are then essential for hazard and risk analysis (e.g. for CO2 leakage and/or induced seismicity).

The Phase I of the CITRU (CO2 injection at Truellikon) project, financed by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy, aims at designing and planning a pilot injection activity. Modeling plays a crucial role in addressing the fate of the injected CO2 and to estimate hazard and risk. Within CITRU, several modeling teams will investigate the different aspects of the complex fluid-rock interactions in CO2 storage, with strong focus on the underground around the TRU1 well.

The CO2SafeQuest, financed through the Swiss National Science Foundation and the Clean Energy Transition Partnership (CETP), aims instead at developing a further understanding of physical process leading to fault reactivation and potential CO2 leakage though caprock via analysis of in-situ experiment performed at the Mont Terri Rock Laboratory as well as upscaling to full scale.

The researcher will mostly focus on using advanced thermo-hydro-mechanical modeling tools (e.g. TOUGH-FLAC) to perform numerical simulation of CO2 injection into Swiss-related storage formation, as well as fault reactivation in caprock-like formation with data from in-situ experiments. The candidate will also contribute to improve current numerical models by implementing theoretical advances in simulators, helping to create a bridge between the different modeling scales, and coordinate the modeling activities within the CITRU consortium. 

The position is initially funded for three years, with the possibility of extension. Part-time employment can be considered if justified. The candidates will work in a highly collaborative environment with close links to academic and industry partners and will have the opportunity to participate in student supervision, teaching and proposal writing. The position can be filled at a more junior (post-doc) or a research scientist level.

The working language at the department is English. At the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, we are committed to promoting flexible and family-friendly working models, and a healthy work-life balance is important to us. ETH Zurich supports a policy for diversity and inclusion and we especially encourage qualified female candidates to apply. The work will be conducted at SED under the supervision of Dr. Antonio Pio Rinaldi and Prof. Stefan Wiemer. 

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with a strong interest in numerical modeling of coupled fluid flow and geomechanics: 

1. A PhD in Geophysics, Geology, Physics, Engineering, Statistics, or equivalent.
2. A proven record of excellence and innovation in a relevant domain of geomechanics and/or fluid flow in fractured and porous media, and the interest to work in a highly collaborative and team-oriented environment. 
3. Experience with numerical modeling and high-level programming (e.g. Fortran/C++). 
4. Abilities in use of data processing software such as Matlab or Python are required.
5. Basic understanding of hazard and risk for CO2 storage.
6. The researcher will be required to work in and coordinate the activities of a small, interactive team. We presuppose abilities in coherent scientific teamwork, excellent communication skills (spoken and written English) and the capability of a good work organization as far as precise way of working.
7. Experience in laboratory experiments and/or fieldwork is considered an asset

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

We look forward to receiving your online application by 31 October 2024, with the following documents:

• Motivation Letter
• Full CV
• Contact details of two referees

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. A first round of online interviews will take place in November 2024. Earliest starting date is December 1st, 2024 and not later than February 2025. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. Further information about the Swiss Seismological Service can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Antonio Pio Rinaldi, email: antoniopio.rinaldi@sed.ethz.ch (no applications).

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.