Geochemical Post-Doc position in Perth, Australia
Dear All,
We are looking for a postdoc to work on geochemical issues associated with
geothermal energy extraction in the Perth Basin - its a three year position with
some possibility for further funding. Ideally the person would be somebody fairly
recently out of a PhD with a good practical and theoretical feel for aqueous and
mineral geochemistry and an ability to pick up and work with different software
tools fairly easily. The main issues we are looking at are mineral precipitation
and issues associated with dissolved gases (CO2, H2, CH4, H2S). The postdoc
will be working closely with a couple of geothermal energy companies and two
drilling projects here in Perth and we have the opportunity to do some fairly
sophisticated analysis as the holes are being drilled so it is quite an exciting
project.
There is an active and developing geothermal community here in Perth
(http://www.geothermal.uwa.edu.au/home/centre) so the successful candidate
will have plenty of opportunity for interaction with others in the field.
We are also looking for a PhD student.
If anybody knows of such a person or people who would like to work in sunny
Perth then please feel free to send them this email.
If you are interested in the position or positions yourself then please send me
your CV and a covering letter before the 15th December, 2010.
A brief project description is included below.
All the best, cheers, Katy
Summary of Proposal
Exploitation of geothermal energy from hot sedimentary aquifers in the Perth Basin, WA,
has been demonstrated to be viable, but chemical aspects of the geothermal fluids and
their interactions with equipment and the host aquifer need to be understood if these fluids
are to be used effectively. Severe problems can occur as a result of scaling (mineral
deposition), and the presence of gases such as CO2 and H2S. Potential issues with these
problems in the Perth Basin will be assessed, and strategies designed to minimise
undesirable outcomes. Results will be applicable to comparable hot sedimentary aquifers
worldwide, and will increase the technical and economic viability of a widely available
source of geothermal energy.
Applied Geology
Curtin University of Technology
GPO Box U1987
Bentley, WA 6845, Australia
+61 8 92664682