Postdoc Experimental Thermo-Mechanics Geothermal Energy

Excited to advance the field of geothermal energy? Looking for a new hands‑on challenge investigating thermo‑mechanics of reservoir rocks and understanding when faults slip due to cooling? Join us!

We are opening a 2‑year postdoctoral researcher position funded by NWO on experimental mechanics and material behaviour modelling of thermo‑mechanical processes occurring in geothermal energy extraction. This role will address the scientific question: “When can reservoir cooling in sedimentary geothermal projects lead to significant seismic activity?” The project combines laboratory experiments, geophysical field monitoring, and numerical reservoir modelling.

Key responsibilities:

• Investigate thermo‑mechanical and hydraulic properties of geothermal reservoir rock, focusing on thermal expansion and permeability heterogeneity under relevant stress‑temperature conditions.
• Study the relation between thermal expansion, fault slip, and triaxial stress states.
• Collaborate with another postdoctoral researcher on numerical modelling to develop a constitutive model adaptable for specific reservoirs.
• Work within the Rock Mechanics lab and the Geothermal Theme of TU Delft, collaborating with PhD and PD teams.

• PhD in Earth Sciences, Experimental Physics, Geotechnical Engineering or a closely related discipline, awarded before the position start.
• Experience and enthusiasm for experimental work.
• Experience with rock deformation equipment (triaxial testing, fault mechanics, thermo‑mechanics).
• Solid understanding of rock mechanics, including volumetric deformation and shear failure.
• Ability to work independently, manage experimental programmes, and collaborate within a multidisciplinary research team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, including the ability to publish in peer‑reviewed journals.

Additional qualifications that are considered a plus:

• Experience with test rock deformation under temperature‑controlled conditions.
• Experience with constitutive modelling.
• Affinity for the advancement of geothermal energy.

• Duration: 2 years (temporary).
• Work load: 32‑38 hours per week.
• Salary and benefits in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
• Excellent pension scheme via ABP.
• Annual individual employment package adjustments.
• Health insurer discounts on supplemental packages.
• Flexible working week.
• 232 leave hours per year (at 38‑hour week), with options to sell or buy additional leave hours.
• Opportunities for education, training, and courses.
• Partially paid parental leave.
• Health and vitality program support.

Interested candidates should apply no later than 31 March 2026 using the application button and upload the following documents:

• Recent CV.
• Motivation letter (max 2 pages) explaining how your experience matches the requirements.
• Publication list with a one‑page summary of your PhD thesis.
• Contact details for two referees.

Send applications online. Email or postal applications are not processed.

For questions, contact Dr. Anne Pluymakers (Anne.

Pluymakers) or Prof. Phil Vardon (p.j.vardon).

We value diversity and believe in a fair and inclusive workplace.