Research Assistant Professor in Geologic Characterization of Energy Systems

General Notes

This position will support activities for both STARR and CISR. The candidate will provide support with geological characterization of outcrops and subsurface data to tackle a wide variety of energy related research while integrating observations with other subdisciplines including geophysics, engineering, data science, and economics. This is for a position at J.J. Pickle Research Campus in North Austin.

We are seeking a highly motivated individual with a strong geoscience background and a drive to address energy-related research challenges. This position will support the State of Texas Advanced Resource Recovery (STARR) and Center for Injection and Seismicity Research (CISR) teams at BEG, performing surface and subsurface geologic characterization to tackle a wide range of topics from assisting oil and gas operators in Texas to mitigating the anthropogenic impact of produced water injection in the Permian Basin. Additionally, the position holder will develop and articulate new research topics relevant to the energy industry and secure external funding through proposal submissions to a variety of funding agencies.

The Research Assistant Professor (RAP) will join a multidisciplinary team of researchers and will be responsible for designing and executing laboratory and field-based research. The RAP is expected to integrate geological data and observations with engineering, geophysics, geochemistry, data science, and economic subdisciplines. The RAP is expected to possess a strong quantitative background including coding skills, and have an affinity for ML and AI workflows.

• 
  

  Develop and execute research activities to comply with CISR's mission.

  
  
• Develop and execute research activities to comply with STARR's mission.
  
  
• 
  

  Publish quality research results in peer-reviewed publications, submit proposals to secure external funding, and contribute to the educational mission of JSG as a RAP.

  
  

Ph.D. in geophysics, geology, or a related field. Strong understanding of outcrop and subsurface geology, with an emphasis on the sedimentology and stratigraphy of siliciclastic and evaporitic sequences. Demonstrated experience in designing and executing field campaigns to study outcrops, as well as proficiency in describing core and designing sampling strategies for laboratory analysis. Experience in manipulating well-log data and integrating rock observations to develop basin-scale petrophysical models. Proven record of involvement in research projects relevant to oil and gas (O&G) and emerging energies. Ability to develop code/algorithms in Python or similar platforms. Excellent data analytical skills. Demonstrated report writing and publication skills. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and professional demeanor. Ability to work both independently and effectively in a large group. Ability to collaborate with multiple disciplines and experts, including geologists, geophysicists, engineers, and economists.

Some knowledge of carbonate stratigraphy, structural geology fundamentals, and manipulation of seismic data. Formalized training on the use of machine learning and AI workflows that can be transferred to geoscience applications. Relevant peer-reviewed publications and conferences papers on the topics of emerging energies.

$103,000+ depending on qualifications

• Uniforms and/or personal protection equipment (furnished)
• 
  

  May work in all weather conditions

  
  
• 
  

  May work in extreme temperatures

  
  
• 
  

  May work around standard office conditions

  
  
• 
  

  Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation

  
  
• 
  

  Use of manual dexterity

  
  
• 
  

  Lifting and moving

  
  
• 
  

  Occasional weekend, overtime, and evening work to meet deadlines

  
  
• 
  

  Fieldwork as necessary

  
  

• 
  

  Resume/CV

  
  
• 
  

  3 work references with their contact information

  
  
• 
  

  Letter of interest

  
  
• 
  

  Research statement

  
  

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in geophysics, geology, or a related field. Strong understanding of outcrop and subsurface geology, with an emphasis on the sedimentology and stratigraphy of siliciclastic and evaporitic sequences. Demonstrated experience in designing and executing field campaigns to study outcrops, as well as proficiency in describing core and designing sampling strategies for laboratory analysis. Experience in manipulating well-log data and integrating rock observations to develop basin-scale petrophysical models. Proven record of involvement in research projects relevant to oil and gas (O&G) and emerging energies. Ability to develop code/algorithms in Python or similar platforms. Excellent data analytical skills. Demonstrated report writing and publication skills. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and professional demeanor. Ability to work both independently and effectively in a large group. Ability to collaborate with multiple disciplines and experts, including geologists, geophysicists, engineers, and economists.

Some knowledge of carbonate stratigraphy, structural geology fundamentals, and manipulation of seismic data. Formalized training on the use of machine learning and AI workflows that can be transferred to geoscience applications. Relevant peer-reviewed publications and conferences papers on the topics of emerging energies.

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.