Postdoc - Computational Hydrogeology/Hydromechanics

The Energy Geosciences Division at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has an opportunity for a postdoc who will support ongoing projects in the area of basin-scale geological CO2 storage. You will mainly work on modeling basin-scale coupled fluid transport, poroelasticity and geomechanical processes for assessing and optimizing strategies to improve basin-scale storage capacity and security. The purpose of the position is to contribute to our group's efforts in developing new modeling capabilities and to apply existing models that may involve carrying out simulations on high-performance computing platforms. Candidates should have a solid knowledge of flow and transport in porous and fractured subsurface media, extensive experience in numerical modeling and programming involving coupled multi-physics processes, and excellent understanding of and vision for tackling a broad range of challenging subsurface problems, such as multiphase flow and geomechanics. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to publish their research in top journals.

What You Will Do:

• Utilize computer models for simulating subsurface fluid flow and stress changes in basin-scale geological CO2 storage
• Apply simulation and optimization algorithms for investigating safe and effective CO2 injection and storage methods.
• Collaborate as a member of a large multidisciplinary research team.
• Publish research in top journals and write technical reports.

Additional Responsibilities as needed:

• Develop and/or improve theories and computational models for coupled multiphysics processes in porous media.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. in a related scientific field (e.g., hydrogeology, petroleum engineering, civil and environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, applied mathematics, physics or a related field).
• Strong experience in mathematical model development and application for flow and transport problems;
• Demonstrated insights into relevant processes occurring at different scales;
• Knowledge in computer programming (e.g., C/C++, and/or C#, FORTRAN, Perl, Python) as well as parallel computing;
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment with a multidisciplinary group of scientists
• Ability to conduct research with limited supervision
• Good verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration and for writing peer-reviewed journal publications and technical reports
• Demonstrated passion for scientific research and a desire to have a research career.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience in geological carbon sequestration preferred
• Experience in optimization methods preferred.
• Background in continuum mechanics plus.
• Be highly motivated to pursue insight into physicochemical processes relevant for subsurface energy and environmental challenges (e.g., geologic carbon storage, production of geothermal energy, underground nuclear waste storage, hydrogen storage, and protection of groundwater aquifers).

Notes:

• This is a full-time, 2 years, postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
• The monthly salary range for this position is $6,476.00 - $8,619 and is expected to start at $6,476.00 or above. Postdoc positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. Each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D postdoctoral and/or related research experience.
• This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work will be primarily performed at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

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Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. In support of our rich community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.