UK Energy Futures Research Fellow

Applications are invited for the post of Postdoctoral Research Fellow (PDRF) in the Department of Earth Sciences.

We are looking for a highly motivated individual to join the research project “Fault system architecture in the Liverpool Bay area (UK)”.

The UK will need to capture and store millions of tonnes of CO₂ per year as part of the 2050 net zero pathway. Offshore hydrocarbon fields in Liverpool Bay are reaching the end of their production life and have been identified as suitable for repurposing into large-scale CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage) projects.
The fundamental characteristics of fault systems exert a major control on subsurface fluid migration, reservoir compartmentalisation, and trapping mechanisms within potential CO₂ storage complexes. Consequently, optimal deployment of CCUS solutions relies upon a robust understanding of fault network architecture in the subsurface.
This project will utilise extensive industry datasets to characterise the tectono-stratigraphic framework offshore Liverpool Bay and provide the geoscientific evidence base relevant to future optimal development of CCUS solutions in the region. The research forms part of the UK Energy Futures research partnership, a joint industry-academia initiative supporting the UK energy transition, and contributes to HyNet North West, a major regional decarbonisation programme focused on reducing carbon emissions across north-west England and north Wales.

The successful candidate will work closely with Dr. Nicola Scarselli as part of the research team. The role will involve contributing to the structural analysis of the study area through the integration surface and subsurface datasets. This will include synthesising existing knowledge of the structural architecture offshore Liverpool Bay, establishing a regional tectono-stratigraphic framework, and carrying out detailed fault analysis for key structures. The postdoctoral researcher will also synthesise results for the preparation and dissemination of research outputs, including academic papers and presentations.

The post is for 12 months, with an expected starting date of 1 October 2026. 

We welcome applications from candidates who meet most of the following criteria 

• A PhD in Earth Sciences
• Strong knowledge of structural geology and subsurface analysis
• Experience working in large subsurface projects within both industry and academia
• Experience mapping stratigraphic and structural features using seismic reflection datasets
• Experience in fault analysis workflows, including restoration of individual structures and regional profiles
• Experience using subsurface interpretation software
• Experience using a range of desktop tools to produce high-quality documents, presentations and technical diagrams
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a research team, managing tasks and deadlines effectively under general supervision
• Experience preparing research outputs for academic or industry audiences is desirable

 In return we offer a highly competitive rewards and benefits package including:

• Generous annual leave entitlement 
• Training and Development opportunities
• Pension Scheme with generous employer contribution 
• Various schemes including Cycle to Work, Season Ticket Loans and help with the cost of Eyesight testing. 
• Free parking 

The post is based in Egham, Surrey where the University is situated in a beautiful, leafy campus near to Windsor Great Park and within commuting distance from London.

Please quote the reference: 0626-197

Closing Date: 23:59, 15 July 2026

Interview Date: End of July 2026

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