PhD Position in Reflection Seismology for Carbon Capture and Sequestration / PhD Position in Reflection Seismology for Carbon Capture and Sequestration

PhD Position in Reflection Seismology for Carbon Capture and Sequestration

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Institute of Geophysics at the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences of ETH Zurich invites ambitious and talented candidates for a fully funded 4-year PhD position in reflection seismology for Carbon Capture and Sequestration (CCS), hosted by the Mathematical Geophysics group.

The Mathematical Geophysics group at ETH Zurich investigates a wide range of topics related to imaging with geophysical data. Our research focuses on mathematical methods for processing, imaging, and inversion of geophysical data, the physics of wave propagation, and the development of innovative acquisition and processing techniques to study the Earth's shallow subsurface.

Project Background

Switzerland has committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. CCS technologies are a key component of this strategy, particularly in sectors with hard-to-abate emissions, such as waste incineration, cement, and agriculture. CO₂ storage in the Swiss subsurface is considered an essential option in the national roadmap, but its feasibility at a relevant scale remains to be demonstrated.

Leveraging the existence of a borehole in Northern Switzerland, an interdisciplinary initiative has been launched to design and execute a pilot CO₂ injection into a saline aquifer to test its behavior and migration. This PhD project forms part of this study, which aims to assess the feasibility, safety, and societal acceptance of CO₂ injection into Switzerland's subsurface. Time-lapse seismic-reflection imaging is the primary tool to image the CO₂ plume and its migration through the subsurface. A high-resolution, high-density 3D seismic survey was acquired in summer 2025 as a baseline for future monitoring.

Job Description

You will work at the interface of reflection seismology, geophysical monitoring, and CCS. Your main tasks will include:

• Processing and imaging the newly acquired high-density 3D seismic dataset and integrating vintage 3D seismic data to image and characterize the geological structures and potential reservoir.
• Integrating extensive passive seismic recordings and borehole seismic data (including vertical seismic profiling, VSP) into the imaging and characterization workflow.
• Developing seismic monitoring strategies for CO₂ injection, including the design and analysis of surface-based and borehole distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) measurements in preparation for upcoming time-lapse surveys.
• Processing and interpreting time-lapse seismic data to track the migration and evolution of the CO₂ plume.
• Collaborating within an interdisciplinary team of geophysicists and reservoir engineers involved in the CCS pilot study.
• Presenting and publishing your results at international conferences and in peer-reviewed journals.

The project will be supervised by Dr. Cédric Schmelzbach, Dr. Dirk-Jan van Manen, and Prof. Johan Robertsson.

Profile

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with:

• A Master’s degree in geophysics, physics, applied mathematics, or a closely related field.
• Strong background in seismic methods, signal processing, and/or wave physics.
• Experience or strong interest in seismic data processing, imaging, and inversion.
• Good programming skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB) and willingness to work with large datasets.
• Good command of English (spoken and written); a basic understanding of German is an advantage, but not mandatory.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.

Workplace

The successful candidate will join a dynamic working environment with highly qualified scientists, excellent computational facilities, and access to an extensive pool of state-of-the-art geophysical equipment. The Institute of Geophysics at ETH Zurich is embedded in a vibrant Earth and Planetary Sciences department, offering numerous opportunities for collaborative projects.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair environment that allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are committed to working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

Apply online using the form below. 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. Renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society, we foster independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that allows them to grow and thrive.