At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge research team investigating offshore groundwater resources to combat climate change.
- Company: University of Derby, a top-rated institution with a commitment to sustainability and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 47 days of annual leave, flexible working, and a supportive wellbeing culture.
- Other info: Be part of an international project with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental challenges while developing your skills in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent in a relevant field, with experience in subsurface modelling and seismic data.
The predicted salary is between 29588 - 44746 £ per year.
About the University
We have one simple promise – to make a positive impact. Through our ground-breaking research, teaching excellence and commitment to sustainable living, we are changing lives for the better. The University of Derby is a modern university with a modern outlook. Everything we do is driven by delivering excellence and opportunities for our students, our staff and our region. We have some of the best university facilities in the UK and achieve outstanding results for our teaching and research and have been awarded Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 – making it one of the top universities in the country recognised for its outstanding student experience and student outcomes.
Financially strong and seriously ambitious we offer our employees an inclusive culture that centres itself around staff wellbeing, where you can be confident you will receive all the help and encouragement you need to build a rewarding career with lots of opportunities to enhance your skills.
About the College/Department
Here at the University of Derby, the College of Science and Engineering is the home of STEM: the skills that are essential to the UK’s Industrial Strategy. From digitisation to decarbonisation, we have an important role to play in shaping the future. The College brings together a powerful combination of scientific expertise, technological innovation, and creative practice. With disciplines spanning computing, AI, data science, engineering, environmental sciences, built environments and psychology - we are uniquely positioned to solve real-world challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration. Our courses are designed with employability and future industry needs in mind, supported by cutting-edge facilities, strong employer partnerships, and a commitment to sustainability. Through applied research and hands-on learning, we equip students and staff to drive progress in areas that matter most; from smart technology to clean energy, advanced manufacturing to immersive design.
School of Science
The School of Science brings together three key subject areas; Environmental Sciences, Biomedical and Forensic Science and Psychology. The School has strong links with key external agencies including the University Hospitals for Derby and Burton NHS Trust who support the Biomedical Sciences IBMS provision as well as research collaborations. The School also works with regional forensic science agencies including the police and private forensic science labs as well as numerous environmental agencies locally, nationally and internationally focusing on conservation, habitat management and environmental regeneration.
About the Discipline
The Discipline of Environmental Sciences in the College of Science and Engineering incorporates Earth Sciences, GeoEnergy, Biological Sciences and Environmental Science and Sustainability. We work with colleagues across the College and University, including Mineral Products, Engineering, Computing, Maths, and Business, to contribute to critical research within the University’s Research themes of Zero Carbon and Data Science. We have a 130-year pedigree in geoscience teaching and research, reflected in our high impact international research, collaboration with external companies, and recognised excellence in teaching and learning. We are a future-focused and collaborative department, working together to make a significant positive impact for our world.
About the Role
RESCUE is a €1,000,000 international collaboration funded by Water4All and Horizon Europe to investigate the potential for Offshore Freshened Groundwater (OFG) resources to mitigate drought during extreme climate events. An international consortium of researchers from the University of Derby (UK), University of Trieste (Italy), OGS (Istituto Nazionale di Oceanografia e Geofisica Sperimentale, Italy), University of Malta (Malta), and RudenAS (Norway) work across 4 work packages to improve knowledge and understanding of technical, social, legal and economic frameworks that underpin the discovery and use of OFG across Europe. You will join the University of Derby as a RESCUE project Co-Investigator to contribute to the development and application of technical methods, workflows, datasets, and dissemination outputs relating to large-scale modelling of subsurface reservoir systems in the Southern North Sea. The machine learning subsurface modelling tool EMBER will be used within Petrel workflows to efficiently derive cutting-edge subsurface porosity and permeability models from large-scale 3D seismic and well datasets. The RESCUE team will then perform dynamic flow simulations for the Southern North Sea using MODFLOW6 and Flopy.
About You
For this research role, you will hold a PhD or equivalent (pending or awarded) in a relevant discipline. You will have experience working with methodologies and techniques in subsurface reservoir modelling using seismic reflection and wireline log data. You will be self-motivated and able to work independently, as well as being communicative and an effective team worker. You will have experience working with seismic reflection and wireline log data, which is essential for this role. You may also have an interest working with Petrel, seismic attributes, machine learning tools, and/or dynamic flow simulations, which are desirables for this role.
Benefits
- Generous annual leave entitlement of 47 days inclusive of bank holidays and concessionary days (pro rata)
- Teacher’s Pension Scheme
- Suite of holistic wellbeing benefits and support including family-friendly policies, generous sick pay provision and comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to a variety of staff discounts at high street retailers
- Discounted onsite gym
- Cycle to Work scheme
- A flexible working environment
- A commitment to personal and professional development
Key Contact
For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Dr Jordan Phethean, Senior Lecturer in Earth Sciences.
Important Information
This role may be eligible for sponsorship by the University. The offered salary for this role is less than the going rate for the occupation and the minimum salary threshold for the Skilled Worker route (£41,700 per annum, as of 22nd July 2025). Therefore you will only be eligible to apply for a Skilled Worker visa subject to your individual circumstances which must meet one of the following criteria set out by UKVI:
- Your job is on the Immigration Skills List
- You’re under 26, studying or a recent graduate, or in professional training
- You have a PhD level qualification that’s relevant to your job
- You have a postdoctoral position in science or higher education
You must also meet the English Language requirement. Please note that the University will assess your individual eligibility for sponsorship at the shortlisting stage. For more information, visit our website.
The University of Derby is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our staff, students and children. At the University of Derby, safeguarding is everybody's concern.
Closing Date: 12 Jul 2026
Area: Teaching and Research
Salary: £29,588 to £44,746 per annum
Researcher in Subsurface Modelling (0131-26) - Derby, DE22 1GB employer: University of Derby
The University of Derby is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises staff wellbeing and professional development. With generous annual leave, a commitment to sustainability, and access to cutting-edge facilities, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact through innovative research and collaboration in a supportive environment. Located in Derby, a city known for its rich history and modern amenities, the university provides a unique opportunity for researchers to thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Researcher in Subsurface Modelling (0131-26) - Derby, DE22 1GB
✨Dive into Geoscience Communities
Join local and online geoscience communities and forums. Places like the Geological Society of London often have events where you can network with professionals in the field. Engaging in discussions or attending workshops can really get you noticed!
✨Show Off Your Fieldwork Skills
If you've got hands-on experience from university projects or internships, make sure to highlight that. Employers in geoscience love practical skills. Consider creating a portfolio showcasing your fieldwork or any research projects you’ve been a part of.
✨Utilise Research Publications
Stay up to date with the latest research in geosciences by diving into journals or attending conferences. Not only will this make you more knowledgeable, but it can also provide talking points in interviews and even lead to job opportunities through academic connections.
✨Apply Directly on Our Website!
When you find a role like Researcher in Subsurface Modelling (0131-26) - Derby, DE22 1GB at University of Derby, apply directly on our website! Tailor your application to highlight your specific skills and experiences in geoscience. Remember, being specific can really set you apart!
We think you need these skills to ace Researcher in Subsurface Modelling (0131-26) - Derby, DE22 1GB
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills in Geoscience:When you're drafting your CV, make sure to highlight specific geoscience skills and experiences. Whether it’s fieldwork, data analysis, or modelling software you’ve used, these details can set you apart. We love to see practical experience, so don't shy away from discussing any projects or research that relate directly to the earth sciences!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Shine:Your cover letter for a full-time geoscience position should scream passion for the field! Let us know why you're excited about working at University of Derby and how your skills align with what we're looking for. Mention any relevant coursework, internships, or projects that showcase your journey in geoscience.
Certifications Matter!:In the geoscience sector, having relevant certifications can give your application an extra edge. If you have any geological or environmental certifications, or even training in software like GIS, make sure to list them prominently. It not only highlights your commitment but also shows that you're equipped with the knowledge required for the role.
Detailed Project Portfolio:For a full-time role, it's super helpful to include a project portfolio if you've worked on significant geoscience projects. This could include research papers, fieldwork summaries, or even visual data representations. We love seeing how you've applied your skills in real-world situations, so make it easy for us to see your achievements!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Derby
✨Show Your Technical Prowess
In geoscience, you'll likely face some technical questions related to geology, geophysics, or GIS tools. Brush up on the fundamental concepts and be prepared to talk about any software you’ve used, like ArcGIS or MATLAB, and how you applied them in your previous projects or studies.
✨Bring Your Field Experience to the Table
If you've had any fieldwork or practical experience, make sure to highlight those experiences during your interview. Talk about specific projects where you collected data, conducted analyses, or made observations. This not only shows your hands-on skills but also demonstrates your commitment to the field.
✨Passion for Our Planet
As a full-time candidate, showing genuine enthusiasm for geoscience can set you apart. Think about what excites you most in this field, whether it's climate change, natural resources, or environmental conservation. Be ready to discuss what draws you to University of Derby and how you can contribute to their ongoing projects.
✨Stay Curious and Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some questions that reflect your keen interest in ongoing research or specific projects at University of Derby. This stays in line with the collaborative nature of geoscience; it shows that you’re not just looking for a job but are genuinely interested in being part of a team that explores and solves real-world problems.
