Benchmarking Seismic Source Models for Geothermal Operations. We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher who will work on two closely related research projects addressing subsurface challenges in geothermal energy production and CO₂ storage. The role focuses on developing, implementing, and benchmarking advanced numerical models to understand and manage induced seismicity, fault reactivation, and near-wellbore processes such as salt precipitation and hydrate formation. The work integrates processes across scales, from near-wellbore physics to reservoir- and fault-scale behaviour, supporting the development of robust, physics-based modelling tools for subsurface energy applications.
Responsibilities- Design and implement benchmark scenarios for (shear) stress modelling along faults and seismic modelling in geothermal operations, supporting fault stressing and seismicity analyses.
- Establish validated reference scenarios for this benchmark with varying levels of complexity, including cases with analytical or semi-analytical ground truths.
- Develop accurate near-wellbore physical models for salt precipitation and hydrate formation during CO₂ injection, explicitly accounting for impurities in the CO₂ stream.
- Bridge near-wellbore, reservoir, and fault-scale processes through consistent numerical modelling and upscaling.
- Support model evaluation, comparison, and performance assessment across both projects, in close collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
- Background in geophysics, reservoir engineering, geomechanics, or a related field.
- Strong background in numerical modelling of subsurface processes, including fluid flow, geomechanics, or coupled multiphysics systems.
- Experience with seismic source modelling, induced seismicity, or fault mechanics.
- Familiarity with analytical and numerical modelling approaches.
- Ability to work with complex geological and reservoir datasets.
- Strong documentation and communication skills.
- Experience working in collaborative, research-driven projects is an asset.
- Experience with geothermal systems or subsurface energy applications.
- Experience with near-wellbore modelling, including completions, perforations, and damage zones.
- Knowledge of benchmark model development and model validation workflows.
- Ability to translate scientific concepts into practical modelling scenarios.
TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft University of Technology is a leading international university combining science, engineering and design. It values diversity and openness and invites you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.
Conditions of employment- Duration of contract: 24 months. Temporary position.
- Job: 36-38 hours per week.
- Salary and benefits follow the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
- Excellent pension scheme via ABP; option to assemble an individual employment package each year.
- Flexible working week; leave: 232 hours per year (38-hour week). Leave can be bought or sold via the individual budget.
- Opportunities for education, training and courses; partially paid parental leave.
- Vitality program supports healthy and energetic working.
Relocation support is available. The HR unit provides information on relocation and integrates a Dual Career Programme to assist accompanying partners.
Additional informationFor more information about this vacancy, please contact Denis Voskov at d.v.voskov@tudelft.nl.
Application procedureApply via the online application button and upload a recent CV and motivation letter explaining how your experience matches the requirements (max 2 pages) no later than 17 February 2026.
- Publication list including a one-page summary of your PhD thesis.
- Contact details for two referees.
You can address your application to Denis Voskov.
Please note:
- You can apply online. Applications sent by email or post will not be processed.
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