Researcher/Senior Researcher in Geochemistry, Optical Petrography for Subsurface Energy Applications

About the Department of Reservoir Technology

The Department of Reservoir Technology conducts interdisciplinary research on underground storage of CO₂ and H₂, geothermal energy, reservoir characterization and sustainable subsurface utilization, fluid–rock interaction processes, environmental monitoring, and geochemical fingerprinting. We are core partners in several major Norwegian and European research initiatives, including SFI SWIPA – Centre for Subsurface Well Integrity, Plugging and Abandonment; SFI earthresQue – Circular economy of Earth materials; NCS2030 – National Centre for Sustainable Subsurface Utilization; FME HYDROGENi – Hydrogen Research Centre; ACT PERBAS - In search of safe carbon dioxide storage in offshore basalt rocks; ECCSEL – European Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage Laboratory Infrastructure.

Our laboratories include:

• Advanced optical microscopy facilities
• IFE-developed hydrocarbon core scanner
• Fluid inclusion microthermometry and spectroscopy systems
• ICP-MS and multi-collector ICP-MS
• Gas-source IRMS instruments
• XRD and GC-MS platforms

The laboratories serve both research and commercial analytical services.

The Position

We seek a highly motivated Researcher or Senior Researcher to strengthen and further develop our analytical geoscience capabilities, with particular emphasis on:

• Optical petrography and mineralogical characterization
• Fluid inclusion analysis (microthermometry, fluorescence, spectroscopy)
• Hydrocarbon geochemistry
• Core-scale analytical imaging
• Integration with isotope geochemistry and fluid–rock interaction studies

The successful candidate will play a central role in operating and further developing:

• The optical microscopy laboratory (including thin section lab)
• The IFE Hydrocarbon Core Scanner
• Fluid inclusion analytical capabilities

The position combines laboratory leadership, independent research, and active participation in national and international research projects related to subsurface energy systems, CCS, hydrogen storage, and environmental monitoring.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and lead national and international research proposals utilizing fluid inclusion geochemistry, petrography with available instruments and tools at the lab
• Publish in high-impact international journals
• Contribute to scientific and strategic development of IFE’s analytical laboratories
• Strengthen industry collaboration and support analytical services
• For senior candidates, demonstrated ability to attract external funding and lead research teams is expected.

Qualifications

We are looking for candidates with:

• A PhD in geology, geochemistry, mineralogy, petroleum geology, or related discipline
• Strong laboratory-based analytical expertise in fluid inclusion analysis for geothermometry and fluid geochemistry in diagenetic- and ore-forming systems, subsurface fluid evolution and petroleum migrating history
• Experience with optical petrography and mineralogical methods
• A solid scientific publication record

For Senior Researcher level:

• Minimum 8–10 years of relevant research or industry experience
• Demonstrated experience in acquiring competitive research funding
• Experience supervising PhD candidates

Experience with isotope geochemistry, subsurface fluid migration, CCS systems, or hydrogen storage is an advantage.

Excellent communication skills in English are required.

Personal Qualities

• Scientific curiosity and initiative
• Ability to combine independent research with collaborative teamwork
• Strong networking and project development capabilities
• Structured and solution-oriented mindset

We offer

• Exciting and challenging work in an international research environment
• Participation in cutting-edge projects in subsurface energy transition
• Access to advanced analytical laboratory infrastructure
• Strong national and international scientific networks
• Competitive salary and social benefits
• Flexible working hours and high degree of autonomy
• The position is permanent. The position is located at IFE, Kjeller, Norway.

Application

Applications must be submitted in English and include:

• Cover letter
• CV with publication list
• Research statement
• Copies of educational certificates
• Up to three selected publications
• Contact information for three referees

Inquiries may be directed to Dr. Viktoriya Yarushina: Viktoriya.Yarushina@ife.no.

Further information about the Institute for Energy Technology and the Department of Reservoir Technology is available at our web page https://ife.no/en/field/reservoir-technology/

Starting date, as soon as possible.

IFE is subject to the Security Act, which includes requirements for the organisation’s management of critical national information, as well as other relevant legislation concerning the management of sensitive information. The successful applicant for the position advertised will have access to classified information and critical national objects and infrastructure. In order to meet the qualification criteria, the applicant must therefore meet the security clearance and/or authorisation requirements. Note that relevant applicants will be asked questions that are necessary to ascertain this. This includes questions about any ties to countries that the PST has classified as a ‘high-risk country’ in its open threat assessment. Background checks are performed as part of our recruitment process.

Research for a better future

IFE conducts research for a better future. Since 1948, we have been a frontrunner in international energy research. We contribute to new solutions in renewable energy, petroleum and industry. We develop zero-emission transport solutions, digital systems and ground-breaking cancer medicine. IFE develops new solutions for the industry and public sector in over 30 countries. IFE is host to the international OECD NEA Halden Projects. We are about 550 employees and the annual turnover is about NOK 1,2 billion. Read more about IFE at www.ife.no/en