Postdoctoral Researcher in Production-induced Seismicity in Fractured Reservoirs / Postdoctoral Researcheress in Production-induced Seismicity in Fractured Reservoirs

Postdoc Position: Production-Induced Seismicity in Fractured Reservoirs

Location: Zurich, 100%, fixed-term

The Swiss Seismological Service (SED) and the BedrettoLab at ETH Zurich are inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position within a two-year research project focused on poroelastic effects and induced seismicity in geothermal systems. This role emphasizes production-induced seismicity in fractured reservoirs through a blend of field experiments, data analysis, and numerical modeling.

Project Background

Geothermal energy projects can trigger seismicity during both fluid injection and production as a result of complex hydromechanical processes occurring in fractured rock. Developing straightforward and standardized modeling approaches to assess production-induced seismicity would greatly benefit from in situ observations that identify relevant or overlooked hydromechanical processes and facilitate model calibration. This project leverages the unique infrastructure at the Bedretto Underground Laboratory, where an extensive multiparametric monitoring network yields unprecedented observations of pressure, deformation, and seismicity. The primary goal of the project is to validate modeling approaches and establish practical workflows for evaluating seismic hazards related to fluid production in Swiss geothermal projects (e.g., in Vaud and Geneva).

Job Description

• Analyze high-resolution pressure, deformation, and seismic datasets from prior and current production experiments to identify governing hydromechanical processes.
• Develop and apply coupled hydromechanical models (continuum and discontinuum) to replicate observed behaviors and quantify poroelastic effects in fractured reservoirs.
• Utilize earthquake source physics models to gain insights into the processes underlying induced seismicity.
• Plan and conduct controlled production experiments at the BedrettoLab to test hypotheses and validate models.
• Translate modeling results into simplified and scalable workflows for assessing production-induced seismicity in geothermal projects.
• Apply developed methods to realistic geothermal scenarios (e.g., Swiss hydrothermal systems) and contribute to best-practice guidelines.
• Publish results in peer-reviewed journals, present at conferences, and collaborate with academic, governmental, and industry stakeholders.

Profile

• PhD in Geophysics, Geomechanics, Earth Sciences, Physics, Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong background in hydromechanics, reservoir modeling, induced seismicity, and earthquake source physics.
• Experience with numerical modeling tools (e.g., MOOSE, PorePy, or similar).
• Proficiency in programming languages (Python, MATLAB, or similar).
• Experience with field data and/or underground experiments is an advantage.
• Ability to work independently and lead research activities.
• Strong analytical and communication skills in English (knowledge of German or French is a plus).

Workplace

This position is hosted jointly by the Swiss Seismological Service (SED) and the BedrettoLab at ETH Zurich, in close collaboration with the Chair of Engineering Geology. The postdoctoral researcher will work closely with experts in hydromechanics, induced seismicity, geothermal energy, and earthquake source physics, engaging with ongoing national and international projects.

We Offer

• A fully funded postdoctoral position (initially 2 years, with the possibility of extension).
• Employment according to ETH Zurich regulations.
• Access to the Bedretto Underground Laboratory, a world-leading research infrastructure.
• A highly interdisciplinary environment that bridges geophysics, geomechanics, energy research, and earthquake physics.
• Opportunities to lead publications and establish an independent research profile.
• Close collaboration with ETH Zurich, the Swiss Seismological Service, and external stakeholders such as the Swiss Federal Office of Energy, Canton de Genève, and Canton de Vaud.

Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture, promoting equality of opportunity and valuing diversity. We nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we maintain a fair and open environment conducive to growth. Sustainability is integral to our mission, and we are continuously striving toward a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

Preferred start date: July 2026

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Please ensure your application includes:

• Motivation letter
• CV
• List of publications
• Contact details of 2-3 references

For further information about BedrettoLab, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Valentin Gischig at valentin.gischig@eaps.ethz.ch (no applications).

Note: 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 exceptional education, groundbreaking research, and the direct translation of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries regard our university as a place that fosters independent thought and inspires excellence. Located at the heart of Europe, we forge connections globally to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's challenges.