Ebigbo

This PhD Research Assistant position is offered at Helmut Schmidt University / University of the Federal Armed Forces Hamburg, within the Faculty of Mechanical and Civil Engineering, Chair of Hydromechanics led by Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Ebigbo. The role is part of a research project funded by the German Research Foundation, focusing on 'Assessing underground hydrogen storage with natural gas using numerical simulations.' The chair specializes in flow and reactive transport in porous and fractured media, and the advertised position centers on the numerical simulation of two-phase flow of hydrogen-methane mixtures and brine in subsurface reservoirs, with a particular emphasis on understanding how these flows affect storage efficiency. Responsibilities include developing models, improving numerical methods, conducting realistic simulations (including on HPC systems), analyzing and implementing equations of state and hysteretic constitutive relations for two-phase flows in porous media, and presenting research results at conferences and in journals. The position also offers the possibility of further academic qualification, such as pursuing a doctorate, and involves some administrative and academic self-administration duties. Applicants should hold a Diplom (univ.) or Master’s degree in civil/environmental engineering, geosciences, physics, mathematics, computer science, or a related field with a focus on fluid flow. Required skills include good knowledge of two-phase flow in porous media and experience in numerical modeling of flow. Desirable qualifications are proficiency in English (at least B2 CEFR), programming skills (Python, MatLab, or C++), and a strong interest in academic research. The position is full-time (39 hours/week), limited to 3 years, and classified under salary group 13 TVöD, with benefits such as annual bonus, company pension scheme, flexible working hours, subsidized public transport, childcare options, professional development, budget-friendly meals, health promotion, free parking, and car-sharing. The university encourages applications from women and severely disabled persons. Applications must be submitted electronically (PDF) with the reference number BIW-1125 by November 24, 2025, to [email protected]. For further information, candidates can visit the university and chair websites or contact the supervisor directly.

This PhD position at Helmut Schmidt University, Faculty of Mechanical and Civil Engineering, in the Chair of Hydromechanics (Prof. Ebigbo), is part of a research project funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) focused on the assessment of underground hydrogen storage with natural gas using numerical simulations. The research group specializes in flow and reactive transport in porous and fractured media. The successful candidate will develop and advance numerical models and methods for simulating two-phase flow of hydrogen-methane mixtures and saline water in subsurface reservoirs, with a particular emphasis on understanding how the unique properties of these flows affect storage efficiency. Responsibilities include model development, enhancement of numerical techniques, and realistic simulations (partly on HPC systems), as well as analysis and implementation of appropriate state equations and hysteretic constitutive relationships for two-phase flow in porous media. The position also involves presenting research results at national and international conferences, publishing in scientific journals, and participating in academic self-governance and administrative tasks. The role offers the opportunity for further academic qualification, such as pursuing a doctorate. Applicants should hold a university degree (Diplom [univ.] or Master) in civil/environmental engineering, geosciences, physics, mathematics, computer science, or a related field, with a strong background in fluid mechanics and numerical flow modelling. Additional skills in English (minimum B2 CEFR), programming (Python, Matlab, or C++), and a keen interest in scientific research are desirable. The position is full-time (39 hours/week), limited to three years, and compensated according to Entgeltgruppe 13 TVöD, including social benefits, annual bonus, pension scheme, flexible working hours, subsidized public transport, and access to campus facilities. Applications from women and individuals with disabilities are encouraged. For further information about the university and the chair, visit www.hsu-hh.de and www.hsu-hh.de/hmech. Applications must be submitted electronically (PDF) with the reference number BIW-1125 by 24.11.2025 to [email protected].

Helmut Schmidt University / University of the Federal Armed Forces Hamburg (HSU/UniBw H) is offering a PhD Research Assistant position in the Faculty of Mechanical and Civil Engineering, within the Professorship for Hydromechanics (Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Ebigbo). The position is part of the research project “Modelling of reactive mass transport and microbial conversion of hydrogen in the subsurface on the pore and Darcy scales,” funded by the German Research Foundation. The research focuses on the numerical simulation of microbial transport through heterogeneous porous media and the precipitation of carbonate minerals triggered by microbial activity. The successful candidate will develop and implement numerical models for simulating microbial transport, model hydrogen conversion by subsurface microorganisms using biochemical reaction kinetics, and present research results at conferences and in journals. The position also offers the possibility of further academic qualification, such as a doctorate or habilitation. Applicants should hold a completed university degree (Diploma [univ.] or Master) in civil/environmental engineering, geosciences, physics, or a related field with a focus on fluid flow. Required qualifications include proven knowledge in reactive transport in porous media. Additional desired skills are experience in numerical modelling, proficiency in English (at least B2 CEFR), programming skills (Python, MatLab, or C++), and familiarity with geochemical modelling tools (Reaktoro, PHREEQC, The Geochemist's Workbench). A strong interest in academic research is expected. The position is funded at salary group 13 TVöD (public service), 29.25 hours per week, for 3 years. Benefits include capital-forming benefits, annual bonus, company pension scheme, flexible working hours, subsidized public transport, childcare options, professional development, and more. The university supports equality, diversity, and applications from women, people with disabilities, and those with a migrant background. To apply, submit your application documents in PDF format, quoting reference number BIW-0326, by 12 April 2026 to [email protected]. For more information about the university and the professorship, visit www.hsu-hh.de and www.hsu-hh.de/hmech . For scientific or technical questions, contact Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Ebigbo at [email protected].