PhD Research Fellow in Applied and Computational Mathematics
The University of Bergen, a leading European institution renowned for high-quality research and education, is offering a PhD Research Fellow position in applied and computational mathematics at the Department of Mathematics. This opportunity is part of the Norwegian Research Council funded DifFracS project and is affiliated with the Porous Media Group. The position is for a fixed-term period of three years, with the possibility of a fourth year dedicated to career-promoting activities such as teaching.
The DifFracS project focuses on enhancing simulation of subsurface processes, particularly where fractures nucleate and propagate. The primary goal is to develop and implement simulation tools based on a differentiable formulation of fracture deformation. The secondary objective involves simulating two- and three-dimensional multiphysics problems with fracture propagation, including the investigation of various thermal stress and fluid pressure regimes, as well as the merging, branching, and nucleation of fractures.
The appointed candidate will contribute mainly to the primary objective, deriving a fully differentiable problem formulation for fracture propagation in coupled multiphysics systems and developing algorithms based on automatic differentiation. These algorithms will be implemented as extensions to the fracture deformation simulation functionality of the PorePy simulation toolbox. The candidate will also apply the new functionality to explore fracture propagation under different subsurface conditions.
Applicants must hold a master's degree or equivalent in applied and computational mathematics, scientific computing, computational physics, or computational geoscience. Master students may apply if they complete their final master exam before 30 September 2026. Experience with numerical methods for partial differential equations is required, while experience with mathematical modelling of fracture propagation or multiphysics systems and collaborative/open-source software development is advantageous. Candidates must demonstrate good written and oral English skills, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and provide documentation of English proficiency if required. Personal and relational qualities, research experience, ambitions, and potential will be considered during evaluation.
The position offers a professionally stimulating working environment, a gross annual salary of NOK 593,700, enrolment in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, and welfare benefits. Salary increases are based on length of service. The University of Bergen is subject to export control regulations, which will be applied during the application process.
To apply, candidates must submit their application and appendices via Jobbnorge, including a brief account of research interests and motivation, detailed justification of qualifications, names and contact information for two referees (one should be the main advisor for the master's thesis), CV, MSc thesis or draft, transcripts and diplomas, relevant certificates, documentation of English proficiency, and a publication list. Certified translations into English or a Scandinavian language must be uploaded.
The University of Bergen values diversity and encourages qualified applicants regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, worldview, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and age. Women and applicants with disabilities, immigrant backgrounds, or gaps in their CV are encouraged to apply. The university ensures that at least one qualified applicant from each of these groups is invited for an interview as part of its commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity.
For further information about the position, contact Dr. Ivar Stefansson ([email protected]) or Professor Antonella Zanna Munthe-Kaas ([email protected]). For HR-related questions, contact Karoline Christiansen ([email protected]).
Application deadline: 4 June 2026.
