RAP Bursary - PhD on modelling at the pore scale - Research Affiliate Program

Important messages

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Assessment accommodation

Duties

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD student to work on a collaborative project to use X-ray CT images of rock cores at macroscopic and microscopic scales to digitally generate 3D pore networks for integration into a numerical model to simulate fluid flow (CO2, brines) and heat transfer. The models will be calibrated using laboratory fluid injection tests, applying experimental conditions typical of underground reservoir conditions (high pressure).

To achieve this, the student will have to:
. do a literature review to determine the optimal parameters to be used for simulations;
. generate 3D pore networks at different scales that are representative of rock samples and thus appropriately incorporate their heterogeneities;
. develop a methodology for numerically integrating heterogeneities at different scales using, among other things, artificial intelligence;
. develop a protocol for making pore network images compatible with COMSOL software;
. apply these images and models in geothermal and CO2 sequestration research projects.

Work environment

At Natural Resources Canada, a federal government job means developing leadership skills, fostering teamwork, and supporting creativity and innovation. We know it takes people from diverse pools of talent to make this happen. That is why we are looking for people like you. As an employee at Natural Resources Canada, you can enjoy diverse employment opportunities, a range of career development programs, and a learning culture that supports you to learn on an ongoing basis. We support balancing your work and private life by offering the benefits of flexible work arrangements.
Much of the work will take place in laboratories.

Intent of the process

The intention is to staff one student position for the completion of a PhD on the simulation of fluid flow and heat transport in 3D pore networks at different scales.

Positions to be filled: 1

Information you must provide

Your résumé.

A covering letter "Applicants must submit a short cover letter (1000 words maximum) describing their interest in this project and their relevant experience (either on the job or during their studies). In addition, please demonstrate your interest in laboratory testing and manual work (assembly, repairs, etc.)."

Contact information for 2 references.

In order to be considered, your application must clearly explain how you meet the following (essential qualifications)

Essential Education:
• The candidate must have obtained their master's degree from a recognized university or be in the final semester of their master's degree in one of the following fields: earth sciences; geology; geological, mechanical or electrical engineering or engineering physics (or hold a BSc in a suitable field and have relevant experience);

Degree equivalency

Essential experience and knowledge:
• The candidate must have experience in programming;
• The candidate must have experience in fluid flow modeling.

In the context of student recruitment in the federal public service, experience/knowledge can be acquired through studies, work experience or volunteer activities.

If you possess any of the following, your application must also clearly explain how you meet it (other qualifications)

Asset Experience:
• Experience in X-ray computed tomography (CT-scan);

The following will be applied / assessed at a later date (essential for the job)

English or French

Information on language requirements

• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Essential personnal suitabilities:
• Self-motivation
• Autonomy

The following may be applied / assessed at a later date (may be needed for the job)

Asset Knowledge:
• Be familiar with Matlab, Avizo and COMSOL software;
• Be able to program in Python.

Selection may be limited to members of the following Employment Equity groups: Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, women

Information on employment equity

Conditions of employment

• Reliability Status security clearance - NOTE: Each student hired through the Research Affiliate Program (RAP) must meet the security requirements of the position as a condition of employment.
Therefore, the student will be asked by the hiring organization to complete security-related documents.
• The student must be registered at the Institut national de la recherche scientifique - Centre Eau Terre et Environnement (INRS-ETE) in Quebec City for this doctoral degree, where his or her future director is located, and reside in the vicinity because of the laboratory work.
• Students must be prepared to perform laboratory work on a regular basis.

Other information

The Public Service of Canada is committed to building a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the Canadians we serve. We promote employment equity and encourage you to indicate if you belong to one of the designated groups when you apply.

Information on employment equity

We thank all applicants for their interest in our position(s). For the purpose of this staffing process, only candidates selected for further assessment will be contacted.

For further information on the Research Affiliate Program (RAP), please visit:
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-service-commission/jobs/services/recruitment/students/research-affiliate-program.html

Successful completion of both a RAP work assignment and your educational program may lead to a temporary or permanent federal public service position for which you meet the merit criteria and conditions of employment.

For this selection process, it is our intention to communicate with candidates via email. Candidates must include a valid email address in their application. It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure that this address is functional and that it accepts messages from unknown users (some email systems block these types of email).

A written examination may be administered.
An interview may be administered.
Reference may be sought.

You must provide proof of your education credentials and transcript.

Candidates with foreign credentials must provide proof of Canadian equivalency. Consult the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials for further information at http://www.cicic.ca/.

Persons are entitled to participate in the appointment process in the official language of their choice.

You must indicate on your application if you require a technical aid for testing or an alternative method of assessment.

Candidates from outside the public service may be required to pay for travel and relocation costs associated with this selection process.

Preference

We thank all those who apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.