Job Opportunities
Research Staff
Postdoctoral Fellow - Relative Permiability in Shale
ID: R_00048537
Purpose:
The primary objective of this role is to quantify multiphase flow and gas–condensate relative permeability in unconventional reservoirs and evaluate their impact on production. The position combines advanced laboratory experiments to characterize effective permeability, relative permeability, capillary pressure, and fluid saturation in nano-Darcy shale rocks and propped fractures, with analytical and numerical modeling to interpret multiphase transport and evaluate optimal drawdown strategies for improved production. In addition to the core project objectives, the researcher will have opportunities to develop new experimental approaches for challenging measurements of capillary pressure and to investigate fracture–matrix interactions in multiphase flow.
Functions:
- Multiphase Transport Experiments: Operate, develop, and modify advanced gas-expansion and liquid-transient flow systems to measure effective permeability, gas–liquid relative permeability, fluid saturations, and multiphase transport properties in shale samples.
- Capillary Pressure & Saturation: Develop and implement innovative experimental and analytical approaches to quantify capillary pressure and saturation relationships in extremely low-permeability shale, addressing the experimental challenges associated with nano-Darcy flow and multiphase systems.
- Fracture–Matrix Interactions: Investigate multiphase transport between propped fractures and the shale matrix, including fracture permeability, gas–liquid relative permeability, fluid exchange, and the role of fracture–matrix interactions in production.
- Data Analysis & Modeling: Develop analytical and numerical models to interpret laboratory measurements, quantify the controlling mechanisms of multiphase transport, and establish relationships among pressure, saturation, capillary pressure, and relative permeability.
To learn more or to apply for this position, click here. Please note that there are separate job boards depending on if you are a UT employee or not. It is imperative that you apply to the correct board. Once you have accessed the correct job board, you can either search for the position using either the title of the position or the job code. For instructions on how to apply through the correct job board, click here.
RESA III - Geothermal Conformance and Flow Control Researcher
ID: R_00048120
Purpose:
Bureau of Economic Geology, The University of Texas at Austin, invites applications for a 1-year Research Scientist Associate III in Geothermal Engineering, with a primary focus on reservoir flow conformance and flow control technologies for next-generation Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS). The successful candidate will conduct cutting-edge research to characterize and manage fracture connectivity and optimize fluid distribution within granites and sedimentary rocks, maximize heat sweep efficiency, reduce preferential flow through highly conductive fractures, delay thermal breakthrough, and enhance long-term thermal recovery from EGS. This position also aims to model, evaluate, and optimize innovative engineering solutions, including chemical, mechanical, completion-based, and operational flow control strategies to optimize geothermal energy production performance. Research will combine reservoir simulation, field data analysis, and coupled modeling to investigate fluid diversion, fracture flow management, conformance improvement, and intelligent injection strategies under high-temperature geothermal conditions in granites and sedimentary rocks.
Functions:
- Conduct research to characterize and manage fracture connectivity and optimize fluid distribution within granites and sedimentary rocks, maximize heat sweep efficiency, reduce preferential flow through highly conductive fractures, delay thermal breakthrough, and enhance long-term thermal recovery from geothermal systems. Model, evaluate, and optimize innovative engineering solutions, including chemical, mechanical, completion-based, and operational flow control strategies.
- Write peer-reviewed journal publications and conference papers. Present at conferences.
- Identify new funding opportunities and help write proposals.
To learn more or to apply for this position, click here. Please note that there are separate job boards depending on if you are a UT employee or not. It is imperative that you apply to the correct board. Once you have accessed the correct job board, you can either search for the position using either the title of the position or the job code. For instructions on how to apply through the correct job board, click here.
Postdoctoral Fellow - Geothermal Conformance and Flow Control
ID: R_00048124
Purpose:
Bureau of Economic Geology, The University of Texas at Austin, invites applications for a 1-year Postdoctoral Fellow in Geothermal Engineering, with a primary focus on reservoir flow conformance and flow control technologies for next-generation Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS). The successful candidate will conduct cutting-edge research to characterize and manage fracture connectivity and optimize fluid distribution within granites and sedimentary rocks, maximize heat sweep efficiency, reduce preferential flow through highly conductive fractures, delay thermal breakthrough, and enhance long-term thermal recovery from EGS. This position also aims to model, evaluate, and optimize innovative engineering solutions, including chemical, mechanical, completion-based, and operational flow control strategies to optimize geothermal energy production performance. Research will combine reservoir simulation, field data analysis, and coupled modeling to investigate fluid diversion, fracture flow management, conformance improvement, and intelligent injection strategies under high-temperature geothermal conditions in granites and sedimentary rocks.
Functions:
Conduct research to characterize and manage fracture connectivity and optimize fluid distribution within granites and sedimentary rocks, maximize heat sweep efficiency, reduce preferential flow through highly conductive fractures, delay thermal breakthrough, and enhance long-term thermal recovery from geothermal systems. Model, evaluate, and optimize innovative engineering solutions, including chemical, mechanical, completion-based, and operational flow control strategies. Write peer-reviewed journal publications and conference papers. Present at conferences. Identify new funding opportunities and help write proposals.
To learn more or to apply for this position, click here. Please note that there are separate job boards depending on if you are a UT employee or not. It is imperative that you apply to the correct board. Once you have accessed the correct job board, you can either search for the position using either the title of the position or the job code. For instructions on how to apply through the correct job board, click here.
Postdoctoral Fellow in Energy and Resource Systems
ID: R_00048039
Purpose:
Build and apply quantitative and economic models to assess the resource, infrastructure, and energy requirements of large-load industrial development in Texas. Design and maintain the databases and quantitative models supporting economic valuation of infrastructure and resource options, including cross-sector co-location. Conduct geospatial and data science analysis supporting site suitability, resource constraint mapping, scenario planning, and the COMPASS interactive visualization and mapping database. Translate results into consortium deliverables, peer-reviewed publications, and stakeholder-facing briefings that help translate research into real-world decisions.
Functions:
- Assess the resource, infrastructure, and demand requirements of large-load industrial development, including energy, water, and land use, and competing claims on shared resources. Conduct integrated geospatial analyses for optimal siting, balancing access to water, land, generation resources, transmission, and existing industrial infrastructure, and evaluate synergies from co-locating complementary industries. Build and apply quantitative and economic models to quantify cost, reliability, and trade-offs across development scenarios, and develop projections of industrial resource and energy demand at high spatial and temporal resolution. Build a system modeling framework to evaluate the deliverability of large-load projects, including interconnection, capacity, and infrastructure constraints. Design, build, and maintain the databases and data pipelines that power COMPASS research, integrating large multi-source datasets (including ERCOT and EIA records) into reproducible analytical systems. Conduct independent research, and develop grant proposals.
- Present research to COMPASS Industrial Affiliates members, community stakeholders, and policymakers at consortium meetings, workshops, and short courses; contribute to member-facing forecasting reports, white papers, and policy briefs.
- Publish in BEG Reports of Investigation; peer reviewed, international, journals; and informal outlets. Develop and maintain the analytical, database, and computing infrastructure that forms the basis for these studies, including high performance computing workflows, geospatial data pipelines, and the interactive visualization and mapping database delivered to consortium members. Mentor graduate and undergraduate student researchers.
To learn more or to apply for this position, click here. Please note that there are separate job boards depending on if you are a UT employee or not. It is imperative that you apply to the correct board. Once you have accessed the correct job board, you can either search for the position using either the title of the position or the job code. For instructions on how to apply through the correct job board, click here.
RESA III - Advanced EOR Formulation and Interface Physics in Nanoporous Rocks (Shale)
ID: R_00047074
Purpose:
The primary objective of this role is to lead innovative laboratory investigations into fluid-fluid/fluid-rock interface optimization within unconventional reservoir rocks. The role balances core DOE deliverables on fundamental huff-and-puff mechanisms and processes with exploratory research into advanced chemical systems (surfactants, co-solvents, foam conformance) and complex suspensions (nanoparticles/aqueous stability) designed to unlock uncontacted oil in shale systems.
Functions:
- Experimental Execution: Design and conduct advanced high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) injection, and microscale huff-and-puff experiments to evaluate CO2, gas, and chemical EOR performance.
- Interface & Fluid Characterization: Quantify rock wettability and alterations, interfacial tension (IFT), and the aqueous stability/rheology of complex surfactant-nanoparticle suspensions.
- Advanced EOR Development: Formulate, test, and optimize multi-component injectants, including CO2-co-solvent blends, surfactant co-injections, and foam systems for mobility and conformance control.
- Collaboration & Documentation: Document experimental workflows, author high-impact peer-reviewed publications, deliver technical presentations, and collaborate closely with numerical modeling team members to upscale laboratory findings.
To learn more or to apply for this position, click here. Please note that there are separate job boards depending on if you are a UT employee or not. It is imperative that you apply to the correct board. Once you have accessed the correct job board, you can either search for the position using either the title of the position or the job code. For instructions on how to apply through the correct job board, click here.
RESA III - CO2 Mobility and Subsurface Transport
ID: R_00047073
Purpose:
The primary objective of this role is to quantify and simulate the complex transport dynamics, mobility, and structural interactions of gases and fluids confined within tight, stressed reservoir matrices of shale rocks (unconventional reservoirs). This role combines rigorous laboratory operations (measuring effective permeability, diffusion, and adsorption) in rock samples with nano-Darcy permeability with analytical or numerical modeling to investigate how dynamic stress-sensitivity governs macro-scale reservoir performance.
Functions:
- Core Transport Experiments: Operate and modify advanced gas expansion/liquid transient flow systems to measure CO2 (gas and supercritical phase) mobility, effective permeability, molecular diffusion, and adsorption.
- Geomechanical & Stress Evaluation: Quantify rock-fluid interactions and transport degradation under dynamic net confining stress environments to evaluate reservoir stress-sensitivity.
- Compositional Reservoir Simulation: Upscale laboratory-derived petrophysical, diffusion, relative permeability, and stress-dependent parameters into compositional reservoir models to perform robust sensitivity and production forecast studies.
- Strategic Integration: Work closely with the lab formulation team to translate fluid-interface mechanics into numerical transport constraints, preparing technical frameworks for upcoming field-scale pilot deployments.
To learn more or to apply for this position, click here. Please note that there are separate job boards depending on if you are a UT employee or not. It is imperative that you apply to the correct board. Once you have accessed the correct job board, you can either search for the position using either the title of the position or the job code. For instructions on how to apply through the correct job board, click here.
Postdoctoral Fellow - CO2 Mobility and Subsurface Transport in Nanoporous Rocks
ID: R_00046883
Purpose:
The primary objective of this role is to quantify and simulate the complex transport dynamics, mobility, and structural interactions of gases and fluids confined within tight, stressed reservoir matrices of shale rocks (unconventional reservoirs). This role combines rigorous laboratory operations (measuring effective permeability, diffusion, and adsorption) in rock samples with nano-Darcy permeability with analytical or numerical modeling to investigate how dynamic stress-sensitivity governs macro-scale reservoir performance.
Functions:
- Core Transport Experiments: Operate and modify advanced gas expansion/liquid transient flow systems to measure CO2 (gas and supercritical phase) mobility, effective permeability, molecular diffusion, and adsorption.
- Geomechanical & Stress Evaluation: Quantify rock-fluid interactions and transport degradation under dynamic net confining stress environments to evaluate reservoir stress-sensitivity.
- Compositional Reservoir Simulation: Upscale laboratory-derived petrophysical, diffusion, relative permeability, and stress-dependent parameters into compositional reservoir models to perform robust sensitivity and production forecast studies.
- Strategic Integration: Work closely with the lab formulation team to translate fluid-interface mechanics into numerical transport constraints, preparing technical frameworks for upcoming field-scale pilot deployments.
To learn more or to apply for this position, click here. Please note that there are separate job boards depending on if you are a UT employee or not. It is imperative that you apply to the correct board. Once you have accessed the correct job board, you can either search for the position using either the title of the position or the job code. For instructions on how to apply through the correct job board, click here.
Postdoctoral Fellow - Advanced EOR Formulation and Interface Physics in Nanoporous Rocks (Shale)
ID: R_00046881
Purpose:
The primary objective of this role is to lead innovative laboratory investigations into fluid-fluid/fluid-rock interface optimization within unconventional reservoir rocks. The role balances core DOE deliverables on fundamental huff-and-puff mechanisms and processes with exploratory research into advanced chemical systems (surfactants, co-solvents, foam conformance) and complex suspensions (nanoparticles/aqueous stability) designed to unlock uncontacted oil in shale systems.
Functions:
- Experimental Execution: Design and conduct advanced high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) injection, and microscale huff-and-puff experiments to evaluate CO2, gas, and chemical EOR performance.
- Interface & Fluid Characterization: Quantify rock wettability and alterations, interfacial tension (IFT), and the aqueous stability/rheology of complex surfactant-nanoparticle suspensions.
- Advanced EOR Development: Formulate, test, and optimize multi-component injectants, including CO2-co-solvent blends, surfactant co-injections, and foam systems for mobility and conformance control.
- Collaboration & Documentation: Document experimental workflows, author high-impact peer-reviewed publications, deliver technical presentations, and collaborate closely with numerical modeling team members to upscale laboratory findings.
To learn more or to apply for this position, click here. Please note that there are separate job boards depending on if you are a UT employee or not. It is imperative that you apply to the correct board. Once you have accessed the correct job board, you can either search for the position using either the title of the position or the job code. For instructions on how to apply through the correct job board, click here.
RSA IV
Job Code: R_00042062
Purpose:
Position will lead mineral resource assessment and characterization studies, especially aggregate and industrial mineral mapping initiatives. The position will assist with the Mineral Resource Program tasks utilizing GIS, Satellite imagery and database development for generating geologic maps.
Functions:
- Lead mineral resource assessment, characterization and mapping efforts.
- Assist with the Mineral Resource Program tasks utilizing GIS, Satellite imagery and database development.
- Drafting and producing geologic maps, reports, and data associated with mineral resource projects.
To learn more or to apply for this position, click here. Please note that there are separate job boards depending on if you are a UT employee or not. It is imperative that you apply to the correct board. Once you have accessed the correct job board, you can either search for the position using either the title of the position or the job code. For instructions on how to apply through the correct job board, click here.
RSA III
Job Code: R_00042053
Purpose:
Position will assist in mineral resource assessment and characterization studies, especially aggregate and industrial mineral mapping initiatives. The position will assist with the Mineral Resource Program tasks utilizing GIS, Satellite imagery and database development for generating geologic maps.
Functions:
- Assist in mineral resource assessment, characterization and mapping efforts. 50%
- Assist with the Mineral Resource Program tasks utilizing GIS, Satellite imagery and database development. 25%
- Drafting and producing geologic maps, reports, and data associated with mineral resource projects. 25%
To learn more or to apply for this position, click here. Please note that there are separate job boards depending on if you are a UT employee or not. It is imperative that you apply to the correct board. Once you have accessed the correct job board, you can either search for the position using either the title of the position or the job code. For instructions on how to apply through the correct job board, click here.
RSA II
Job Code: R_00042047
Purpose:
Position will assist in mineral resource assessment and characterization studies, especially aggregate and industrial mineral mapping initiatives. The position will assist with the Mineral Resource Program tasks utilizing GIS, Satellite imagery and database development for generating geologic maps.
Functions:
- Assist in mineral resource assessment, characterization and mapping efforts. 50%
- Assist with the Mineral Resource Program tasks utilizing GIS, Satellite imagery and database development. 25%
- Drafting and producing geologic maps, reports, and data associated with mineral resource projects. 25%
To learn more or to apply for this position, click here. Please note that there are separate job boards depending on if you are a UT employee or not. It is imperative that you apply to the correct board. Once you have accessed the correct job board, you can either search for the position using either the title of the position or the job code. For instructions on how to apply through the correct job board, click here.
Postdoctoral Fellow in Water Systems - Ground Water
Job Code: R_00041180
Purpose:
We are seeking highly motivated candidates for postdoctoral fellow positions within the Bureau’s hydrology research group. These fellows will be key members of an expanding research program focused on assessing Texas water resources and systems in service to our mission as the state geological survey. The current research program objectives are: (a) synthesize a full suite of Texas water resource and system data into a common spatiotemporal framework, (b) develop a web-based product to deliver accessible and actionable water resource and system information to stakeholders, (c) assess the historical impact of drought and flood on water resources and systems, and (d) evaluate drought and flood risk and resilience. This research program is anticipated to yield significant insights for Texas water resource management and planning processes as well as to provide a strong foundation for further research projects.
Each position term is subject to performance as well as research program needs and funding. Multiple postdoctoral fellow positions are initially available, and candidates are strongly encouraged to review Preferred Qualifications to determine which position is best aligned with their skills and experience.
Functions:
- Perform research in the hydrology field, including analysis and interpretation of large datasets using various analytical, statistical, and numerical techniques.
- Contribute to the publication of scientific papers and presentation of findings to scholarly meetings and stakeholders.
- Collaborate and coordinate with research program team members and participate in program development through proposals and other fundraising.
- In addition to other duties as assigned, provide support and service as needed to supervisor, the Bureau, and the Jackson School.
To learn more or to apply for this position, click here. Please note that there are separate job boards depending on if you are a UT employee or not. It is imperative that you apply to the correct board. Once you have accessed the correct job board, you can either search for the position using either the title of the position or the job code. For instructions on how to apply through the correct job board, click here.
Postdoctoral Fellow in Water Systems (ml)
Job Code: R_00041178
Purpose:
We are seeking highly motivated candidates for postdoctoral fellow positions within the Bureau’s hydrology research group. These fellows will be key members of an expanding research program focused on assessing Texas water resources and systems in service to our mission as the state geological survey. The current research program objectives are: (a) synthesize a full suite of Texas water resource and system data into a common spatiotemporal framework, (b) develop a web-based product to deliver accessible and actionable water resource and system information to stakeholders, (c) assess the historical impact of drought and flood on water resources and systems, and (d) evaluate drought and flood risk and resilience. This research program is anticipated to yield significant insights for Texas water resource management and planning processes as well as to provide a strong foundation for further research projects.
Each position term is subject to performance as well as research program needs and funding. Multiple postdoctoral fellow positions are initially available, and candidates are strongly encouraged to review Preferred Qualifications to determine which position is best aligned with their skills and experience.
Functions:
- Perform research in the hydrology field, including analysis and interpretation of large datasets using various analytical, statistical, and numerical techniques.
- Contribute to the publication of scientific papers and presentation of findings to scholarly meetings and stakeholders.
- Collaborate and coordinate with research program team members and participate in program development through proposals and other fundraising.
- In addition to other duties as assigned, provide support and service as needed to supervisor, the Bureau, and the Jackson School.
To learn more or to apply for this position, click here. Please note that there are separate job boards depending on if you are a UT employee or not. It is imperative that you apply to the correct board. Once you have accessed the correct job board, you can either search for the position using either the title of the position or the job code. For instructions on how to apply through the correct job board, click here.
Water Resources Analyst (RESA II)
Job Code: R_00041175
Purpose:
We are seeking a highly motivated candidate for a research scientist associate position within the Bureau’s hydrology research group. This position will be a key member of an expanding research program focused on assessing Texas water resources and systems in service to our mission as the state geological survey. The current research program objectives are: (a) synthesize a full suite of Texas water resource and system data into a common spatiotemporal framework, (b) develop a web-based product to deliver accessible and actionable water resource and system information to stakeholders, (c) assess the historical impact of drought and flood on water resources and systems, and (d) evaluate drought and flood risk and resilience. This research program is anticipated to yield significant insights for Texas water resource management and planning processes as well as to provide a strong foundation for further research projects.
This is a limited term appointment which, subject to performance as well as research program needs and funding, may or may not ultimately result in extension or permanent opportunities. Multiple research scientist associate positions are listed, and candidates are strongly encouraged to review Required Qualifications to determine which listing is best aligned with their skills and experience.
Functions:
- Perform research in the hydrology field, including analysis and interpretation of large datasets using various analytical, statistical, and numerical techniques.
- Contribute to the publication of scientific papers and presentation of findings to scholarly meetings and stakeholders.
- Collaborate and coordinate with research program team members and participate in program development through proposals and other fundraising.
- In addition to other duties as assigned, provide support and service as needed to supervisor, the Bureau, and the Jackson School.
To learn more or to apply for this position, click here. Please note that there are separate job boards depending on if you are a UT employee or not. It is imperative that you apply to the correct board. Once you have accessed the correct job board, you can either search for the position using either the title of the position or the job code. For instructions on how to apply through the correct job board, click here.
Seismology Postdoctoral Fellow
Job Code: R_00028107
Purpose:
Analysis of Geophysical and Geomechanical data to provide models that can be calibrated and verified from available data, to identify processes for earthquake risk mitigation.
Functions:
Provide novel research on geomechanical and pore pressure models linking human operations to the evolving seismicity rates. The goal is to be able to construct models that explain the nucleation and evolution of seismicity. Model-inputs might include earthquake and hydrogeological data, stress-change models, etc. In addition, you will contribute to collaborative research modeling stress changes in the subsurface due to geo-energy related operations, validating potential identification of causal factors. The results could be integrated in a regional time-dependent seismic hazard model estimating approaches for risk mitigation. Present in meetings and conferences. Publish in peer review journals.
To learn more or to apply for this position, click here. Please note that there are separate job boards depending on if you are a UT employee or not. It is imperative that you apply to the correct board. Once you have accessed the correct job board, you can either search for the position using either the title of the position or the job code. For instructions on how to apply through the correct job board, click here.
Administrative/Clerical Staff
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Executive/Managerial Staff
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Technical Staff
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Service/Maintenance Staff
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