Post Doctoral Research Fellow - Geosciences

The University of Texas Permian Basin's Department of Geosciences welcomes applications for the position of Post Doctoral Research Fellow

Salary Range

$60,000.00 depending on qualifications

Reporting to the Pl and CO-ls of the Permian Regional Carbon Sequestration Hub team at UTPB, the postdoctoral research associate will serve as a key member of a multidisciplinary research team. The successful candidate will develop and refine subsurface geological and geophysical models to support safe and effective CO2 storage operations. This role is critical for assessing reservoir characteristics and guiding CCUS strategies in the Permian Basin. This position is located on the UTPB Main campus in Odessa, TX (Hybrid or Remote employment is not possible).

1. Conduct original, independent research on subsurface geological models tailored to CO2 storage applications.
2. Analyze seismic, well log, and core data to build accurate 3D geomodels.
3. Integrate geophysical and geological datasets to evaluate reservoir quality and storage capacity.
4. Present research findings in technical reports, internal meetings, and at professional conferences.
5. Participate in fieldwork as required to collect and verify data as necessary.

1. PhD in Geosciences or a related discipline with a focus on subsurface modeling.
2. A strong record of scientific publication and research performance in subsurface geomodeling or related fields.
3. Proficiency with advanced geophysical and geological modeling software (e.g., Petrel, Techlog, Kingdom, etc.).
4. Excellent analytical, quantitative, and communication skills with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.

1. Hands-on experience with CCUS or CO2 storage research projects.
2. Proficiency in industry-standard software for well log analysis and quantitative seismic interpretation.
3. Experience integrating multi-source geoscience data into comprehensive 3D models.
4. Familiarity with statistical analysis and machine learning techniques applied to geoscience data.
5. Demonstrated ability to work with industry partners.

Required Application Materials

1. Cover Letter
2. Résumé
3. List of References
4. Transcripts (Preferred)
5. Letters of Recommendation (Preferred)

Conditions of Employment

1. The job description is not a complete list of all responsibilities and duties performed by employees. Employees may perform other related duties as assigned by their immediate supervisor.
2. Employment is subject to an introductory period to monitor employee performance.
3. Once hired, the prospective employee must present documentation within three (3) days of the hire date to establish their identity and employment eligibility as required by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Applicants must be able to show proof of eligibility to work in the United States by time of hire. UTPB participates in e-Verify.
4. Employees must be able and willing to travel and perform duties away from campus as necessary and must be able to operate a licensed motor vehicle, have access to a dependable motor vehicle, and possess a valid state driver’s license. Must have and maintain a satisfactory driver’s record.
5. Employment is contingent upon a successful background check.
6. UT Permian Basin is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Schedule

Generally, the normal work hours for the university are Monday through Thursday, 7:30 – 5:30 pm; Friday, 8:00 am – 12:00 pm with a one-hour lunch. The individual holding this position may need to be available early morning, evening, and on weekends to meet the needs of the department. Hours worked may differ with some departments.

Standard Working Conditions

1. Able to lift various materials up to 25 pounds on an occasional basis.
2. Able to bend, crouch, and reach continuously.
3. Physically able remain seated, frequently to continuously.
4. Able to remain standing up to 15% of the time.
5. Possesses dexterity abilities required to perform job duties including extensive keyboard work, operating office equipment, performing filing, and other job-related responsibilities that include extensive wrist and hand movement.
6. Standard working conditions may differ depending on department and occupation

University Benefits

1. UT Permian Basin offers an excellent compensation package including heath, retirement, & fringe benefits for eligible employees.
2. Coverage includes medical, prescriptions, life insurance, AD&D, and matching retirement provided by UTPB.
3. You may also be eligible to add dental, vision, family coverage, & flex-spending accounts, additional retirement, and a few other coverages as options too.
4. Fringe benefits include tuition reimbursement (after one year of service), wellness breaks, employee assistant program (EAP), and meal deals, among other perks and discounts!
5. Our benefits package, along with an ample leave policy, make for a great total compensation package.

About the University

The University of Texas Permian Basin is located in Odessa, Texas. It was authorized by the Texas Legislature in 1969 and founded in 1973. The Permian Basin is one of the fastest-growing, culturally vibrant, economically invigorated regions of the country – full of industry, culture, and wide-open spaces. At the academic heart of this area sits The University of Texas Permian Basin – which every year, delivers smart, savvy leaders across the U.S.

As a regional, comprehensive institution, The University of Texas Permian Basin serves a diverse community of students from the region, the state, and beyond. Through excellence in student-centered teaching, learning, research, and public service, the University cultivates engaged citizens and impacts lives while advancing the technology and public interests of West Texas.

Our vision is that the University of Texas Permian Basin will be an innovative, responsive university that thinks large and lives local. We will lead in advancing education, research, economic competitiveness, and cultural enrichment.