Postdoc Constraining sedimentary and stratigraphic heterogeneity of the Rotliegend in the Groningen area

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Post-doc Researcher

Postdoc Constraining sedimentary and stratigraphic heterogeneity of the Rotliegend in the Groningen area

This vacancy is only available in English

In your role as a postdoctoral fellow within the CrossScale project team, you will investigate the sedimentary and stratigraphic heterogeneity of the Rotliegend in the Groningen area. The study will be based on detailed analysis of core-scale data (sedimentological logs, core photographs, short-wave infrared spectroscopy data) that will be tied to well-scale data (well-logs, lithostratigraphy) and reservoir-scale data (facies models, well swarm analysis, geophysical characterisations). As part of the CrossScale team you will be embedded in the research group of Dr Johannes Miocic in collaboration with Dr Hemmo Abels (TU Delft).

Faculty of Science and Engineering
Apply no later than: 31 March 2026 23:59 Dutch local time
0.6 - 1 FTE
€4.241 - €5.538

Postdoc Constraining sedimentary and stratigraphic heterogeneity of the Rotliegend in the Groningen area

Apply now
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What are you going to do?

Geological reservoirs used for producing or storing energy are heterogeneous. Characterising and quantifying geological heterogeneities is challenging because sampling scales (e.g., thin sections, plugs, cores) are different from the scales where petrophysical properties need to be defined (i.e., the scale of a grid block in a reservoir model). This gives rise to major uncertainties, especially in heterogeneous formations such as the Permian Rotliegend in the Netherlands subsurface, because reservoir models are used to investigate how geological heterogeneities impact engineering. A fundamental challenge is that current reservoir modelling workflows almost always underestimate geological heterogeneity and hence provide unrealistic uncertainty bounds. The unique database of the Groningen Rotliegend reservoir in The Netherlands provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity to develop an efficient and scientifically-based methodology that allows us to represent the key geological heterogeneities in reservoir models through geologically-informed upscaling and better constrain uncertainties in model predictions. Such advanced geoscience research will enable us to execute future geoenergy projects safely and sustainably, and is needed to earn trust among different stakeholders and societal actors. The CrossScale project, which is part of the DeepNL programme funded by the Dutch Research Council, hence aims to bridge across scales and disciplines to develop a new upscaling methodology for better reservoir models and provide a new deliberation approach that improves the communication between scientists and societal stakeholders.

Who are you?

We are looking for creative, motivated, and determined candidates, who meet the following requirements:

  • A background in geology or geomorphology and a PhD degree in sedimentology, stratigraphy or a related field.
  • Hands-on experience with sedimentary observations and interpretations.
  • Experience with integrating core-scale data (stratigraphic section / core log) to field-scale data (full outcrop / reservoir zone) is preferred.
  • First-hand experience with digital logging tools (such as WellCAD, Techlog,..) and 3D modelling software (such as Petrel) can be an advantage.
  • A publication record that is at pace with the moment in your career showcasing your ability to publish in international, peer-reviewed journals.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
  • Experience supervising BSc and MSc students is an advantage.
  • A proactive and motivated approach to identifying research opportunities and contributing to the success of the project and team.

What can you expect from us?

  • In accordance with the collective labor agreement for Dutch universities, we offer a salary of at least € 4.241 (schaal 10.4) up to a maximum of € 5.538 (schaal 10) gross per month for a full-time employment contract.
  • 232 vacation hours per year, based on a 38-hour workweek (1.0 FTE). You can also work more or fewer hours in exchange for more or fewer free hours. For example, with a 40-hour workweek, you save 96 extra free hours, and with a 36-hour workweek, you lose 96 hours.
  • End-of-year bonus of 8.3% and 8% holiday allowance.
  • Extensive opportunities for personal and professional development.
  • A temporary appointment of 1.0 FTE for two years.
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Where will you be working?

At the University of Groningen (UG), researchers from all fields of academia and technology are working on academic challenges and societal questions. Lecturers prepare their students for meaningful careers within or outside the academic world. Interdisciplinary research and teaching, sharing of knowledge, collaboration with businesses, government institutions, and societal organizations are aspects that are of the utmost importance to this European top university. The UG aims to be an open academic community with an inclusive and safe working climate that invites you to add your value.

The Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) provides teaching and research across a wide range of disciplines, from physics and biology to artificial intelligence, mechanical engineering, and pharmacy. In close collaboration with partners from industry, healthcare, and society, we contribute to the urgent challenges of our time, such as energy, sustainability, digitization, and medical technology. Our community is open and informal, with more than 7,000 students, 1,000 PhD students, and 1,400 staff members from all over the world. If you would like to learn more about the Faculty of Science and Engineering, visit rug.nl/fse

At the University of Groningen (UG), researchers from all fields of academia and technology are working on academic challenges and societal questions. Lecturers prepare their students for meaningful careers within or outside the academic world. Interdisciplinary research and teaching, sharing of knowledge, collaboration with businesses, government institutions, and societal organizations are aspects that are of the utmost importance to this European top university. The UG aims to be an open academic community with an inclusive and safe working climate that invites you to add your value.

Application procedure

Step 1: Your application

After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation by email.

Step 2: Selection

The selection committee assesses your application and you will be notified as soon as possible whether you are invited for an interview.

Step 3: First interview

We would like to get to know each other better in a first interview, which can take place either online or on location.

Step 4: Second interview and possible assessment or guest lecture

We may schedule a second interview with you. Depending on the position, this interview can be complemented with an assessment or guest lecture.

Step 5: Terms of employment meeting

After a positive interview, we will discuss the terms of employment together. When everything is completed, we are happy to welcome you at the University of Groningen!

Interested?

Does this vacancy appeal to you? If so, click on the button below and apply straightaway.

Please add the following documents to your application:

  • CV.
  • Cover letter.
  • Diplomas (BSc, MSc, PhD).
  • Contact information of three academic references.
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Do you have any questions or need more information?

  • Questions about the content of the job?

    Johannes Miocic

    Assistant Professor

    j.m.miocic@rug.nl
  • Questions about your application process?

    Johannes Miocic

    Assistant Professor

    j.m.miocic@rug.nl

Information about applying

When scheduling meetings, we will take your schedule into account as much as possible.

The University of Groningen considers social safety important. We strive to be a university where staff and students feel respected and at home, regardless of differences in background, experiences, perspectives, and identity. For more information, see also our page about our diversity policy.

Acquisition is not appreciated.

Onze selectieprocedure volgt de richtlijnen van de NVP Sollicitatiecode

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