The University of Alberta
Department of Physics

Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Geomechanics

The Department of Physics at the University Of Alberta invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher in geomechanics. The successful applicant will carry out research in the group of Professor Mirko van der Baan on the topic of geomechanical modeling using finite and discrete element methods with application to microseismic monitoring, including hydraulic fracture stimulation of tight-gas reservoirs, carbon capture and storage, and reservoir monitoring of for instance heavy-oil fields, and other areas. Ongoing and planned research involves improved understanding of failure mechanisms at the microscale, hydraulic fracture propagation, slow-deformation events, and fluid-induced versus stress-induced seismicity. Projects may involve knowledge transfer of reservoir geomechanics to microseismic monitoring and/or adaptation of computer algorithms.

General information and application procedure

This postdoctoral position is available immediately. The initial appointment will be for one year, with the possibility of renewal for a second year. The successful applicant will become part of the Microseismic Industry Consortium, jointly hosted by the University of Alberta and the University of Calgary, which is currently sponsored by 30 software, service, hydrocarbon and mining companies. There will be a strong interaction with the sponsors.

Applicants should hold a PhD and have research experience in geomechanics and computational modeling of earthquake processes, reservoir engineering, or crustal stress and fracturing.

Applicants should submit a CV, list of publications, and a statement of research interests, and should arrange for three letters of reference to be sent directly to the Department. All application materials should be sent by email or by post to Professor Mirko van der Baan, Department of Physics, CCIS, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2E1, Canada. Email: Mirko.vanderBaan@ualberta.ca.

Information on the department can be found at http://www.physics.ualberta.ca and on the research consortium at http://www.microseismic-research.ca.

Evaluation of applications will commence: 15 October 2013.

The University of Alberta welcomes diversity and encourages applications from all qualified women and men, including persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities, and Aboriginal persons.