PhD Position in Mechanical Rock Preconditioning in Zürich

The Engineering Geology Group (Prof. Jordan Aaron) is looking for a creative and motivated PhD candidate with a strong interest in rock mechanics and laboratory experiment design. The position is expected to start in June 2024 and is fully funded for 4 years.

You will develop a new methodology for the mechanical preconditioning of rock for underground energy storage and recovery applications. You will be working in the Rock Physics and Mechanics Lab within the Department of Earth Sciences to design and develop a mechanical rock pre-conditioning method. Using the new method, you will conduct laboratory pre-conditioning experiments under in-situ stress and temperature conditions relevant to applications such as Enhanced Geothermal Systems.

• MSc in Engineering Geology, Earth Sciences, Geological Engineering, Rock Mechanics, or related fields
• Strong background in rock and fracture mechanics
• Experience with or strong interest in rock mechanical laboratory testing
• Motivation, creativity, independence, and ability to work in a multi-disciplinary team
• Excellent English communication skills

We are an enthusiastic and collaborative research group with many opportunities for multi-disciplinary cutting-edge research in engineering geology. There are significant opportunities to broaden your research interests and develop your academic career. We further offer training in teaching through teaching assistantships, as well as access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research equipment.