2-year PostDoc: Accurate and Efficient Geophysical Potential Field Response on Implicit Structural Geological Models Université de Lorraine in France

This 2-year postdoctoral position at Université de Lorraine offers an exciting opportunity to advance research in geophysical potential field response on implicit structural geological models. The project aims to integrate multi-modal geological and geophysical data to better understand subsurface heterogeneity and manage resources such as heat, hydrogen, CO2 storage, minerals, and groundwater. The successful candidate will focus on improving the accuracy and efficiency of potential field computations on realistic rock unit geometries, addressing the challenges posed by geological faults and rugged topography.

Research will involve testing and comparing various numerical and computational techniques, including parallel implementations and optimization of existing in-house CPU/GPU C++ code. Initial work will use synthetic models with analytical solutions, progressing to complex 3D geological models. There is scope to extend the approach to other geophysical problems, such as electromagnetics, and to explore advanced inversion techniques combining multiple level sets and transdimensional methods.

The postdoc will join the GeoRessources Laboratory's RING team, a multidisciplinary group of 12-15 researchers and graduate students with strong academic and industrial collaborations. Close collaboration is expected with Prof. Guillaume Caumon, Dr. Ayoub Belhachmi, Dr. Modeste Irakarama, Dr. Jeremie Giraud, and Dr. Frédéric Dubois. The position is part of the Digital Earth project under the PEPR Sous-sol, Bien Commun initiative, providing access to a broad research network.

The scholarship offers a competitive monthly salary (2600 to 3500 EUR, depending on experience), comprehensive social benefits including 44 days of paid leave, and a budget for attending national and international conferences. The postdoc is expected to produce, present, and publish innovative methodologies and open-source software, with strong support for professional development and networking with both industrial and academic partners.

The ideal candidate will have a PhD in numerical geophysics or applied mathematics, with required experience in computer programming. While a background in geoscience is appreciated, it is not mandatory. Strong scientific writing and communication skills are essential, and proficiency in English is required. The contract is expected to start in Q2 2025, with flexibility based on candidate availability. Nancy, the host city, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a vibrant student life and cultural scene, located conveniently near Paris, Luxembourg, and Strasbourg.

Application deadline is December 15, 2025. Interested candidates should apply online and prepare all necessary documents. For further information, contacting the supervisors is encouraged.