Three open PhD positions in Computational Geosciences
Applications are invited for three PhD positions in Computational Geosciences at Simula Research Laboratory based in Oslo, Norway. The position will be funded through the Simula School of Research and Innovation, a school designed for collaboration between Simula, other research institutions and industry. We are currently looking for three outstanding candidates, who each will be allocated to one of three research areas outlined below. The matching of candidates to research topics will depend on individual interests and abilities. The successful applicants will be part of a dynamic and highly competent team that produces state-of-the-art research results and software in computational geosciences.
About the positions
The positions will be part Simula's collaboration with StatoilHydro and other internationally leading research groups in computational geosciences. Our research collaborations are based on geoscientific software technologies developed by Simula since 2005.
The PhD students will be enrolled in one of our collaborating universities (one position will be connected to Lund University in Sweden, the two others to University of Oslo in Norway). For the position associated with Lund University, the project period is 4 years. For the positions associated with University of Oslo, the project periods are 3 years, preceded by a period of 6-12 months as a Research Trainee.
Qualifications
Candidates must have a Master degree or equivalent in applied mathematics, scientific computing, geophysics, or another computationally oriented field. Applicants must have strong oral and written communication skills. The research tasks will require programming in one or more of the languages C++, Python, and Matlab. Background in the geosciences is considered an advantage, but is not required.
Research Topics
Project A:
Automatic Calibration of Depositional Models
This PhD project focuses on advanced algorithms for automatic tuning of process parameters such that the mathematical model for the process can match physical observations. In particular, the aim is to tune parameters that are crucial for the behaviour of models describing the deposition of sand and mud in a sedimentary basin. The development of a robust methodology for this purpose has a significant potential, both scientifically and in the oil and gas industry. This project is associated with Lund University. Further details are available here.
Start date: July 2009.
Project B:
Efficient Solution of Nonlinear PDEs for the Propagation of Geological Properties
Together with StatoilHydro, Simula has developed a novel technology for construction and maintenance of complicated geological models. This technology is based on very efficient numerical solvers for nonlinear partial differential equations (especially stationary Hamilton-Jacobi equations). This PhD project aims at development of new algorithms and refinement of existing methods for the solution of such equations. Relevant methods include fast marching methods and level set techniques. This project is associated with the University of Oslo.
Start date: July 2009
Project C:
Numerical Models of Earth Systems
This PhD project involves the study of fundamental processes in Earth Systems and how these processes interact. Possible paths of research can include studies of how mantle flow affects the evolution of topography and sediment flux in a rifting basin; of numerical classification of process scenarios for depositional models based on changes in climate, geography, grain-size, subaerial and submarine processes; or of interaction between back-arc rifting and subduction. This project is associated with the University of Oslo.
Start date: As soon as possible.
About the Computational Geosciences Project at Simula
Simula has a focus on high quality research in a supportive and flexible environment and offers competitive salaries and conditions. The Computational Geosciences Project at Simula collaborates closely with StatoilHydro to undertake fundamental research and software development. This partnership is aimed at meeting the knowledge and technology requirements of the company in the competitive oil industry. All the three PhD positions are funded by StatoilHydro, and the successful applicants will interact with researchers in the oil company during the project.
Inquiries and Further Information
To apply for a position, email a short application letter, curriculum vitae (including publications) and copies of transcripts and grades to jobs@simula.no. The subject of the email must contain "0921 Computational Geosciences".
Please rank the open positions according to your interest.
We are interested in how you first came to learn about this position - please let us know in your email.
Applications will be processed successively.
For more information please contact professor Are Magnus Bruaset arem@simula.no
