The ETH Zurich Geothermal Energy & Geofluids (GEG.ethz.ch) Group in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences investigates subsurface reactive fluid and geothermal energy transfer, developing and employing computer simulations, laboratory experiments, and field analyses. Our aim is to gain fundamental insights and to develop sustainable technologies that address societal needs.
We are excited to announce two interdisciplinary PhD opportunities focused on cutting-edge research in geochemistry, planetary science, and natural hydrogen. The successful candidates will join a dynamic research team to explore fundamental processes in supercritical CO₂ systems with dissolved water and the formation of natural hydrogen in geological environments. This research aims to address pressing questions regarding geological processes on Earth and other planets as well as the potential for energy resources from natural hydrogen.
Job description
For this research, we are looking for applicants with backgrounds in geochemistry and electrochemistry, or closely related fields, to fill two PhD positions with respective foci on: (1) reactivity of hydrous supercritical CO₂ (scCO2) and (2) subsurface production of natural hydrogen.
The PhD position on the reactivity of hydrous scCO₂ will focus on mineral-hydrous scCO₂ reactions, including the dissolution and precipitation of minerals as well as the associated electrochemical processes in CO₂-rich environments with limited dissolved water. This research will have direct applications to natural and artificial CO₂ reservoirs, geologic CO₂ storage, usage of subsurface CO₂ as a geothermal energy extraction fluid, insights into early Earth conditions, and the potential for studying CO₂ interactions on other planets.
The PhD position on natural hydrogen production will focus on the formation, accumulation, and migration of natural hydrogen in subsurface environments. The research aims to explore geochemical processes that lead to natural hydrogen generation, focusing on the potential of natural hydrogen as an energy resource. The research will also extend to the study of hydrogen generation in planetary systems, particularly in the context of (early) life in deep subsurface environments and extraterrestrial settings.
Profile
We seek highly motivated, self-organized individuals with a strong background in geochemistry, planetary science, subsurface energy science, or a related field. Successful candidates will:
- have a keen interest in interdisciplinary research that combines Earth science and energy resources.
- be motivated to conduct innovative research in geochemistry, energy systems, and planetary science.
- have experience in experimental geochemistry, geochemical modeling, or geothermal/fluid systems.
- possess skills in geochemistry measurement techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray computed tomography (XRCT), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), or electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR).
- ideally also have expertise in designing and performing high-temperature and high-pressure in situ experiments.
- be near-fluent in English, both written and spoken.
https://jobs.ethz.ch/job/view/JOPG_ethz_EiacvBQn9ECNR6wsMl
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