Description
The Bob L. Herd Department of Petroleum Engineering at Texas Tech University is actively seeking four highly motivated researchers for fully funded doctoral positions commencing in Spring 2027. This opportunity focuses on tackling critical challenges within subsurface energy production. Successful candidates will join an innovative research group dedicated to advancing Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) and Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS). As part of this academic environment, scholars will receive comprehensive training spanning the entire research spectrum—from conducting bench-scale laboratory experiments to executing complex reservoir simulations and implementing real-world field applications.
Research Focus & Responsibilities
Doctoral candidates will immerse themselves in hands-on experimental investigations, advanced numerical modeling, and field development analyses. The core research themes include:
- Analyzing reactive transport mechanisms within fractured and porous environments.
- Investigating multiphase flow dynamics across both unconventional and conventional energy reservoirs.
- Exploring the geochemistry behind complex fluid-rock interactions beneath the surface.
- Advancing CO2 mineralization techniques for geological carbon sequestration and EOR applications.
Scholarship Value and Benefits
This program ensures that accepted students are fully supported so they can dedicate their focus entirely to academic and research excellence:
- Comprehensive Financial Support: A complete funding package that covers both full tuition costs and a competitive living stipend for all four available positions.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Exclusive access to Texas Tech's high-temperature, high-pressure laboratory setups and advanced computational computing resources.
- Interdisciplinary Environment: A collaborative workspace merging the fields of geothermal energy and enhanced oil recovery.
- Professional Networking: Direct pathways to collaborate with industry leaders and national research laboratories.
Qualification & Eligibility Criteria
Ideal applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to both foundational science and applied engineering challenges. The requirements include:
- A robust academic foundation in chemical engineering, petroleum engineering, geochemistry, or a closely related scientific discipline.
- A Master of Science (MS) degree is highly preferred.
- A distinct passion for reactive transport modeling, EOR, fluid-rock interactions, and multiphase flow.
- The motivation to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical, field-relevant solutions.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by submitting their comprehensive application package. You may refer to standard formatting guides like Content example.pdf to ensure your documentation is structured professionally.
- Prepare a detailed Cover Letter outlining your specific research interests and alignment with the lab's focus.
- Include a current Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting your academic and research background.
- Provide official or unofficial academic Transcripts.
- Submit valid English language test scores (if applicable to your residency status).
- Upload all requested documentation directly to the official application portal: Apply Now
