PhD Candidate / PhD Candidate

PhD Position: Optimization of Shut-in Strategies to Reduce Induced Seismicity

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Chair of Engineering Geology and the BedrettoLab at ETH Zurich invite candidates for a PhD position within a research project focusing on poroelastic effects and induced seismicity in geothermal systems. This role emphasizes the investigation of post-shut-in seismicity and the creation of safer operational protocols. Induced seismicity in geothermal systems frequently persists after the cessation of injection or production, a phenomenon recognized as post-shut-in or trailing seismicity. Many of the most significant seismic events arise after shut-in, presenting challenges for hazard mitigation and operational safety. Although extensive modelling efforts have been undertaken, the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Furthermore, field observations of pressure and deformation during shut-in that could enhance our process understanding are scarce. This project leverages the unique monitoring capabilities of the Bedretto Underground Laboratory to explore these processes and develop experimentally validated guidelines for safer shut-in strategies.

Job Description

• Investigate pressure, deformation, and seismicity data from hydraulic stimulation experiments to derive conceptual models of post-shut-in processes.
• Develop hydromechanical models to reproduce observed shut-in behaviour and test competing hypotheses (e.g., pressure diffusion vs. poroelastic effects).
• Develop/apply earthquake source physics models to understand induced seismicity processes.
• Design and execute controlled hydraulic stimulation and production experiments with different shut-in protocols.
• Quantify how different shut-in strategies influence seismicity rates and magnitudes.
• Derive recommendations for optimized shut-in procedures to minimize induced seismic hazard.
• Publish results, present at conferences, and contribute to project reporting.

Profile

• MSc degree in Engineering Geology, Geophysics, Seismology, Earth Sciences, Physics, Engineering, or a related field.
• Interest in induced seismicity, geomechanics, and field experiments.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills.
• Interest in learning complex numerical modelling tools.
• Programming skills (Python and/or MATLAB required).
• Willingness to participate in underground field campaigns.
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary and collaborative environment.
• Strong communication skills in English (German and/or French is a plus).

Workplace

The successful candidate will be hosted at the Chair of Engineering Geology at ETH Zurich and will closely collaborate with a multidisciplinary research team comprising the Swiss Seismological Service and the BedrettoLab.

We Offer

• A fully funded PhD position (up to 4 years).
• Employment according to ETH Zurich regulations.
• Access to the Bedretto Underground Laboratory.
• A collaborative environment bridging research, field experiments, and real-world applications.
• Opportunities for publications and international conference participation.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture that promotes equality of opportunity, values diversity, and nurtures a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value—our commitment to a climate-neutral future is unwavering.

Curious? So Are We.

Preferred start date: August 2026

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Please include the following documents:

• Motivation letter
• CV
• Academic transcripts
• Contact details of 2-3 references

Further information about BedrettoLab can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Valentin Gischig at valentin.gischig@eaps.ethz.ch (no applications).

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that fosters independent thinking and an inspiring environment for excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections globally, we collaboratively develop solutions to the pressing challenges of today and tomorrow.