Doctoral Position in Magnetic Resonance Applications in Porous Media

The ETH Zurich Geothermal Energy & Geofluids (GEG.ethz.ch) Group in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences investigates subsurface reactive fluid and geothermal energy transfer, developing and employing computer simulations, laboratory experiments, and field analyses. Our aim is to gain fundamental insights and develop sustainable technologies to address societal needs.

The position is 100% with a competitive salary according to ETH Zurich standards. The position is for one year with the potential for annual extensions based on project needs and employee performance. The position start date is 1st of February 2027 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Project background

We are excited to announce a PhD opportunity focused on developing and applying multi-modal magnetic resonance techniques for studying chemical and physical processes in porous media (e.g., natural rock formations). The group is implementing state-of-the-art nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMR/MRI), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR)-MRI, and dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) instrumentation. Fundamental processes will be probed in porous media including multicomponent fluid flow (e.g., H2O, and CO2), H2O-quartz-radical reactions, mineral precipitation, microbial methanogenesis, and crystalline hydration.

Job description

The PhD project will explore:

• Developing new methods and techniques in NMR/MRI, pulsed-EPR-MRI, and DNP
• Characterization of radical centers in natural rock samples with EPR spectroscopy and imaging
• Understanding DNP in porous media both with exogenous and endogenous radical sources
• Studying selected applied chemical and physical processes in porous media possibly including:
• Multicomponent fluid flow and temperature encoding
• Mechanochemical radical generation during rock fracturing and its role in water splitting to form hydrogen gas, oxygen gas, and reactive oxygen species
• Quantification of 13C-enriched CO2, bicarbonate, and/or CH4 in porous media through different phases and geochemical reactions
• Tracking mineral precipitation via 23Na and/or 7Li isotope handles

The work will include method development of various magnetic resonance techniques with a focus on porous and fractured media. Applied projects will combine experimental stimulations (e.g., high-pressure fracture experiments), magnetic-resonance-based characterization, geochemical analysis, microbial ecology approaches, alongside modeling fluid migration and storage potential.

Profile

We seek a highly motivated and self-organized individual with:

• Background in chemistry, physics, engineering, or similar
• Strong interest in interdisciplinary research bridging chemistry, physics, geochemistry, geomechanics, microbiology, and energy science
• Experience with liquid- or solid-state NMR, MRI, or EPR
• Familiarity with analytical tools such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray computed tomography (XRCT)
• Experience in designing and performing high-temperature and high-pressure in-situ experiments is advantageous
• Fluency in English (both written and spoken)

We offer

We provide a dynamic and exciting work environment with cutting-edge computational and laboratory infrastructure at ETH Zurich in general and in the GEG group in particular. The GEG Group’s laboratory includes both low-field (~ 50 mT) and high-field (5.6 T) multinuclear NMR/MRI, pulsed-EPR-MRI, and DNP instruments. Further capabilities include an XRCT, laser Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), and Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF). These are used to monitor reactive experiments, quantify, and visualize a wide range of components over varied temperatures and pressures in up to three spatial dimensions. The GEG Group values an open and inclusive group culture.

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• A cover letter, describing your motivation, experience, and interest in magnetic resonance
• Your CV
• If readily available, up to three professional reference letters, otherwise, please provide the contact information of up to three references

Further information about the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences can be found at our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Adam Altenhof at adam.altenhof@eaps.ethz.ch and/or Dr. Xiang-Zhao Kong at xkong@ethz.ch (no applications).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.