Fully Funded PhD Studentships in Subsurface Geoenergy Science and Geothermal Formation Alteration at Newcastle University Newcastle University in United Kingdom

Newcastle University is advertising two fully funded PhD studentships in subsurface geoenergy and geothermal formation alteration. The opportunities are linked to research led by Mark Ireland, Senior Lecturer in Energy Geoscience at the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences.

The first project focuses on uncertainty quantification in subsurface geoenergy applications, with relevance to geothermal energy, carbon capture and storage (CCS), and hydrogen storage. This research area is centered on robust characterisation of structural geometries, discontinuities, and stratigraphic heterogeneity, and on improving conceptual and numerical models of the subsurface.

The second project examines formation alteration during geothermal production, looking at how geological formations change as fluids are extracted, re-injected, and exposed to thermal and chemical stress. This is a strong fit for students interested in geothermal reservoir behaviour, fluid-rock interaction, and the operational science behind geothermal systems.

The post states that both studentships are fully funded for Home UK candidates. No stipend amount or detailed funding breakdown is given in the post. The application deadline is 5 June 2026.

Ideal applicants are likely to have a background in geoscience, geophysics, numerical modelling, applied mathematics, or related quantitative fields. The opportunity is especially relevant to students interested in the scientific foundations of the energy transition, underground energy systems, and geothermal research.

For more details, use the linked post and blog article, then follow the university application instructions before the deadline.