Postdoctoral researcher – thermally induced seismic events in geothermal energy

About the role

We are seeking a motivated postdoctoral researcher to investigate thermally induced seismicity in sedimentary geothermal projects. The 2‑year NWO‑funded position is based at TU Delft and involves close collaboration with KNMI and other project researchers.

Key responsibilities

• Perform centroid‑moment tensor inversions for small (M < 1) induced events in the Groningen area.
• Develop an inversion strategy tailored to low‑magnitude events and sparse seismic data from geothermal sites.
• Carry out centroid‑moment tensor inversions for low‑magnitude events in geothermal projects, focusing on the volumetric component and linking results to geothermal‑induction theory.
• Collaborate with colleagues on experimental thermo‑mechanics and numerical reservoir modelling.

Required profile

• PhD in Geophysics, Physics, Mathematics, Earth Sciences or a closely related discipline.
• Strong understanding of seismic wave fields and mechanics.
• Proven ability to link models to field data and publish in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Capacity to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team.

Required skills

• Centroid‑moment tensor inversion.
• Seismic data processing and inversion.
• Finite‑difference wave‑equation solvers (e.g., SeisSol, SPECFEM3D).
• Numerical reservoir modelling.

What we offer

• Two‑year fixed‑term contract funded by NWO.
• Employment at TU Delft with access to state‑of‑the‑art facilities.
• Collaboration with KNMI and a vibrant Geothermal research theme.
• Opportunities to publish high‑impact research and develop a strong professional network.