Postdoc positions in CO2 storage research

Centre for Energy Resources Engineering (CERE) at DTU Chemistry is seeking talented postdoctoral researchers to contribute to our exciting CO2 storage research in the following projects:

CompReact: Compositional simulation of reactive transport in CO2 storage

In this project, we aim to advance CO2 storage simulation technology by combining state-of-the-art equilibrium calculation algorithms with compositional simulation. We intend to take advantage of the recent development in simultaneous chemical and phase equilibrium calculation to improve the speed and reliability of CO2 storage simulation significantly. The candidate will work on integrating the novel chemical and phase equilibrium calculation algorithm into an in-house compositional simulator to simulate CO2 storage in both saline aquifers and depleted petroleum reservoirs. This requires robust and efficient calculation of multiphase equilibrium in dynamic simulation. The developed simulator will be applied to analyze both near-wellbore and reservoir-scale problems. It will also be an objective to integrate the relevant simulation methods in the advanced CO2 storage simulation software GEOSX (www.geosx.org/) through a collaboration with the current developers of GEOSX. We expect that the project will provide a new paradigm for performing compositional simulations for various underground CO2 storage processes. The project is a part of the INNO-CCUS partnership (www.inno-ccus.dk).

CO2plus: Phase behavior of CO2+X in CO2 storage

Our second project focuses on understanding the phase behavior of CO2 with different impurities or fluids at storage sites. We aim to acquire systematic knowledge and develop modeling approaches to analyze the complex phase behavior during CO2 injection and storage. The project involves experimental measurement, phase behavior modeling, and integration of the developed models into simulation analysis of injection risks and storage issues. The project is under the Innovation Fund Denmark’s Grand Solutions program.

The CERE group at DTU Chemistry possesses extensive expertise in both experimental measurement and modelling of high-pressure phase equilibrium and thermophysical properties. Furthermore, the group excels in development of efficient phase equilibrium calculation algorithms for compositional simulations. Both projects are supported by robust consortia of industrial and academic partners, ensuring that the high-level research remains relevant and applicable in real-world contexts.

Responsibilities and qualifications

Each of the two projects has one postdoc position.

The postdoc in CompReact will work on the improvement of the calculation algorithms for multiphase reactions, the integration of the multiphase reaction module into a CO2 storage simulator, and simulation analysis using the developed simulator.

The postdoc in CO2plus will work on the phase behavior modeling of CO2 rich streams and the integration of developed models into simulation analysis.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent) in areas such as chemical engineering, chemistry, petroleum engineering, and mathematics.

Overall, we are specifically seeking candidates who have, or are willing quickly to acquire the following skills:

• Phase equilibrium calculation algorithms and their integration into dynamic CO2 storage simulation
• Thermodynamic modeling of phase equilibrium and thermophysical properties related to CO2-rich mixtures.

The candidates should possess strong programming skills. It is an advantage to be familiar with thermodynamics and dynamic simulation. Since CO2plus involves measurement of phase equilibrium and thermophysical properties, it facilitates the collaboration with others in the project if the postdoc in CO2plus has relevant experimental knowledge and experience.

We offer

DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and terms of employment 

The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The postdoc position(s) are for a period of maximum 4 years. We will start the positions as soon as possible (or according to mutual agreement).

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information 

Further information may be obtained from Associate Professor Wei Yan, tel.: +45 4525 2379, email: weya@kemi.dtu.dk.

You can read more about Department of Chemistry on www.kemi.dtu.dk.

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure 

Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 17 September 2023 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply now”, fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

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