Postdoc Laboratory for Experimental Mechanics and Fibre-optic Monitoring

Experimentation and calibration of fibre-optic response to deformation in controlled laboratory experiment.

Job description
We are excited to offer a postdoctoral position as part of the innovative Q-fibre project, which aims to develop a cutting-edge toolbox for monitoring and ensuring the integrity of CO2 storage sites. This project leverages fibre-optic data from wells to provide operators with enhanced insights into the thermo-hydro-mechanical behavior of storage systems, allowing for improved management of CO2 storage integrity.

In this postdoc role, you will focus on Distributed Strain and Acoustic Sensing (DSS/DAS), with an emphasis on laboratory-based strain and acoustic measurements. The primary goal is to connect the mechanical behavior of rocks and cement with the response measured by DSS/DAS systems, with applications for shallow geothermal storage on the TU Delft campus. Your research will contribute directly to the development of a comprehensive monitoring toolbox for the Q-fibre project.

This position has two key components:

1. Investigating the thermo-hydro-mechanical behavior of cement and reservoir/cap rocks under evolving in-situ conditions relevant to CO2 storage.
2. Conducting a specialized experimental program combining mechanical setups with a lab-based fibre-optic (FO) monitoring system to measure the coupled response of rocks and cement and calibrate the system based on known external forces.

This is a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on experimental research while contributing to the development of groundbreaking technology in CO2 storage and environmental monitoring. We are looking for a highly motivated and collaborative researcher with a passion for experimental work and a desire to contribute to real-world solutions in the field of sustainable energy.     

Job requirements
We are seeking a dynamic and motivated candidate with a PhD in Applied Geoscience or Engineering, with a focus on Rock Mechanics and/or Applied Geophysics. The ideal candidate will have strong numerical and programming skills for data analysis and a passion for hands-on laboratory research. Experience in rock mechanics is a significant advantage.

We are looking for someone who is a fast learner with a broad interest in the field, and who thrives in a collaborative, team-oriented environment. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, in English are essential, as is the ability to clearly convey complex ideas and contribute to team discussions. If you enjoy tackling challenges, are eager to learn, and want to contribute to cutting-edge research, we encourage you to apply.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences
The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology, and delta technology. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource availability, urbanisation and clean water. Our research projects are conducted in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced of the importance of open science and supports its scientists in integrating open science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences.

Conditions of employment

• Duration of contract is 2 years.
• A job of 36-38 hours per week.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants, TU Delft has the Coming to Delft Service. This service provides information for new international employees to help you prepare the relocation and to settle in the Netherlands. The Coming to Delft Service offers a Dual Career Programme for partners and they organise events to expand your (social) network.

Additional information
For more information about this vacancy, please contact Guy Drijkoningen (g.g.drijkoningen@tudelft.nl) and Auke Barnhoorn (auke.barnhoorn@tudelft.nl).

Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 27 January 2025 via the application button.

To apply, please add the following documents to your application:

1. Motivation letter.
2. Detailed CV.
3. Names and contact information of at least two relevant references.
4. Academic record.
5. Link to PhD thesis

You can address your application to Auke Barnhoorn.

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.
• For the final candidates, a knowledge security check will be part of the application procedure. For more information on this check, please consult Chapter 8 of the National Knowledge Security Guidelines. We carry out this check on the basis of legitimate interest.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.

36 - 38 hours per week

Mekelweg 5