Postdoctoral Researcher in Process-Based Stratigraphic Modelling for Offshore Characterization of the Plio-Quaternary Roussillon Aquifer (ANR AQUIMER) University of Montpellier in France

The University of Montpellier is offering a funded postdoctoral researcher position within Géosciences Montpellier for a project on process-based stratigraphic modelling applied to the offshore characterization of the Plio-Quaternary Roussillon aquifer (ANR AQUIMER).

The postdoctoral researcher will join the Flow and Transport in Porous Media team and work in an interdisciplinary setting spanning sedimentary geology, marine geophysics, hydrogeology, and numerical modelling. The project addresses Offshore Freshened Groundwater (OFG), an important scientific and societal topic related to groundwater preserved in continental shelf sediments. The Roussillon aquifer system, extending beneath the Gulf of Lion, provides the natural laboratory for this research.

The main scientific goal is to integrate geological and geophysical datasets—such as boreholes, outcrops, seismic reflection data, electrical resistivity, and electromagnetic surveys—into a process-based modelling workflow. The appointee will use DionisosFlow™ to reconstruct the sedimentary evolution of the system, generate 3D stratigraphic grids, predict sedimentary facies and lithological distributions, and help distinguish the relative influences of lithology and pore-water salinity on resistivity signatures. The work is expected to improve the inversion and interpretation of electromagnetic datasets and contribute to the characterization of offshore groundwater resources.

Key tasks include compiling and harmonizing onshore and offshore geological, geophysical, and stratigraphic data; performing and calibrating 3D sedimentary simulations; generating synthetic seismic sections; building a 2D resistivity model; and preparing at least one journal article for a leading international peer-reviewed outlet.

Applicants should hold a PhD or equivalent in Geosciences, Geology, Marine Geology, Sedimentary Geology, Geomodelling, or a closely related field. Strong knowledge of sedimentology, sequence stratigraphy, sedimentary basin evolution, and siliciclastic depositional processes is expected, together with experience in seismic interpretation and an interest in hydrogeology and land-sea interactions. Skills in geological modelling software, GIS, and programming are advantageous, and excellent English scientific communication is required.

The position is based at Géosciences Montpellier, University of Montpellier, in Montpellier, France, and runs for 18 months. The net monthly salary is €2,200 to €2,380. The application deadline is 8 October 2026.

Applications should be sent by email to [email protected].