Function

Within the framework of the joint NWO-DeepNL project of TUDelft and Utrecht University: ‘Subsidence – Integrating Geodesy and Geophysics to monitor and model the Dutch Subsurface’, Utrecht University is seeking a motivated PhD candidate to work on this collaborative research programme.

 

Project description

Intensive use of the subsurface is increasingly difficult in developed societies. While the natural resources are still necessary, society is critical on the associated hindrance. The Groningen area is currently undoubtedly one of the most significant examples, where the significance of seismicity and subsidence have reached unprecedented levels, in terms of risk, societal unrest, governmental and industrial accountability, and the national economy. The governmental decision to cease hydrocarbon extraction from the Groningen gas field is the latest development in this context.

 

The overall aim of this project is to significantly improve our ability to predict the effects of interaction with the subsurface to avoid or mitigate undesired effects. We achieve this goal by proposing a paradigmatic change in the use of geodetic data in conjunction with geophysical data and models, by establishing an integrated continuous iterative optimization procedure, using data assimilation between geophysical modeling (of different strata and mechanisms) and geodetic data processing (most notably InSAR and GNSS). This procedure will be applied and tested within the Groningen gasfield area.

 

Our programme consists of 5 work packages (WP), all focusing on detecting and modeling the temporal variability of the various driving mechanisms of subsidence, at fine (sub-km) spatial scales:

  • (PhD) Geodetic models and parameter estimation: InSAR data
  • (PhD) Geophysical models at sub-Holocene depths: reservoir and overburden
  • (PhD) Geophysical models at Holocene and Pleistocene depths: soils, hydrology and water management
  • (PhD) Data assimilation: analysis of model-data differences; quantify model uncertainties
  • (Computational Data Analyst): Advancement of numerical data processing techniques

The PhD candidates of WP1 and WP4, as well as the Computational Data Analytics expert will be primarily stationed in Delft, PhD candidates of WP2 and WP3 in Utrecht. All programme participants are expected to work as a team. PhDs work one day per week at the other university. Through regular visits of staff to various knowledge institutions, the research team will be able to work in seamless collaboration, leading to inspired partnership in follow-up projects.

 

Utrecht University is seeking a motivated PhD candidate for WP3: Improvement of geophysical models at Holocene and Pleistocene depths (soils, hydrology and water management)

 

The aim of this PhD project is to quantify and model spatial and temporal changes in surface elevation due to rising or lowering of phreatic groundwater as a consequence of primary subsidence (natural or man-induced), and groundwater extraction from Pleistocene aquifers. Surface elevation changes due to individual drivers will be separated and quantified using the differences in response time, affected area, and foundation depth of the geodetic benchmarks, as reflected in existing and newly measured groundwater level and surface elevation data in combination with process-based modelling.

 

Profile

This PhD project combines soil sciences, hydrology, geo-mechanics, and numerical modeling, and therefore we are looking for a candidate with a strong drive and affinity in those disciplines. Candidates with a background in physical geography, soil science, (geo)hydrology, with clear affinity with physical and mathematical approaches are encouraged to apply. You are able to work independently, but also within the interdisciplinary project team, and have the ability to cooperate with algorithm developers. You have excellent writing and verbal communication skills in English and you are a fast learner with a broad interest.

 

The candidates are expected to publish the results in peer-reviewed papers. Up to 10% of your time will be dedicated to assisting in the BSc and MSc teaching programmes of the Department of Physical Geography. A personalised training programme will be set up upon recruitment, which will reflect your training needs and career objectives. The project is fully financed through the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO).

 

To apply
More information can be obtained from Dr. Esther Stouthamer at e.stouthamer@uu.nl . (As of July 30 out of office up to and including September 1, 2019)

Please submit the following materials as part of your application:

  • A letter of application which describes your motivation and qualifications;
  • Your curriculum vitae and a list of publications;
  • Names and addresses of two referees.