Ph.D. position in Arctic Geology (Spatial and temporal gas emissions)

About the position

The Arctic Geology Department is looking for a highly motivated, independent geo-scientist for a fulltime four-year PhD student position on the spatial and temporal natural gas emissions at present and in geological deep time. The four-year contract includes a year of required duties. Alternatively, the candidate may choose a three-year position which excludes these duties. Applications are also open
to this year's master's candidates, with the requirement that the master's degree must be completed by July 1st, 2025. The desired start date is during August, and no later than September 1st.

It is well documented that methane is actively leaking through the Barents Shelf, both onshore and in Svalbard’s fjords. Active gas seepage is well documented beneath the geologically recent permafrost and also in the fjords of Svalbard. What remains unclear is what this seepage is controlled by and how periodic these fluxes happen, not just seasonally but through geological time. Specifically, this
relates to burial and exhumation of Svalbard (controlling the rates of methane generation) but also magmatic events with potentially catastrophic events (e.g., Early Cretaceous High Arctic Large Igneous Province).

By combining present-day and geological events the PhD candidate will be able to compare methane fluxes and document its environmental implications at present and in the geological past. The primary research focus will be two-fold. The first focus area builds on the present-day methane emissions as documented in the fjords of western Spitsbergen during several recent research cruises. Additional cruises, most likely using UNIS’ Hanna Resvoll, would be undertaken to decipher the temporal control on the methane emissions.

The second focus area is on quantifying the gas generation and potential atmospheric gas emissions during the geological past (i.e. pre-Quaternary). Particular focus will be on characterizing contact metamorphism in organic-rich shales during the emplacement of sills and dykes associated with the High Arctic Large Igneous Province in the Early Cretaceous. Numerical modelling will complement field and drill core-based studies to quantify when and how much greenhouse gas was generated in Svalbard.

The PhD candidate is expected to develop (with the assistance of supervisors) an own project plan within the framework of the announced position. The position is based at UNIS in Longyearbyen, but it may be relevant to undertake some research stays on the Norwegian mainland (Trondheim, Oslo, Tromsø) and internationally.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications
The successful candidate will have good knowledge of geoscience, ideally with a focus on subsurface fluid flow and structural geology. The PhD candidate should be independent and highly motivated, with a proactive approach to delivering scientific results both independently and in a team. The PhD project involves substantial field work on Svalbard both summer and winter, which can be physically very demanding.

• Applicants must hold a master’s degree in a field relevant for the position (geosciences, preferably structural geology, basin analysis, petroleum geology or marine geology), or the degree must be completed by July 1st, 2025
• Admission to the doctoral program at NTNU is a condition of the employment
• Good problem-solving skills, and overall positive and flexible attitude
• Must be able to work in a structured manner both independently and in a team
• Be able to conduct independent field work, using both snow-scooters and small boats for transportation
• Proficient in both written and oral English
• Driver’s license class B (valid for Svalbard)

 

Advantageous knowledge and skills

• Working with 3D modelling (Petrel, Move), numerical modelling (e.g., Petromod), GIS
  software (QGIS, ArcGIS) and 3D outcrop models (Metashape)
• Experience in ship-based fieldwork
• Experience in living and working in remote or polar regions
• Experience in teaching
• Experience with publishing in peer-reviewed journals
• Experience with obtaining external funding (e.g., Arctic Field Grant)

Motivation and personal suitability will be emphasized.

We offer

UNIS offers a challenging and varied job in an exciting, pleasant, and international environment. As an employee, you will be a member of the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund (SPK), which provides one of the best pension schemes on the market. We also offer excellent insurance schemes, coverage of travel and relocation expenses upon starting the position, and staff housing in accordance with current regulations.

The position is classified under the job code “Stipendiat” (code 1017). In addition to the base salary, a Svalbard allowance of NOK 42.840 per annum is provided. A 2 % contribution to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund is deducted from the salary. The income tax rate in Svalbard is currently 8 %, and a national insurance contribution of 7.7 % is also deducted.

Application

Inquiries about this position, may be directed to:
Prof. Kim Senger: kims@unis.no, +47 95 29 15 92
 

Application deadline 25.04.2025.
 

Please include the following documents to the online application form:

• Motivational letter (max. 1 page) to state applicants scientific and personal interest in pursuing a Ph.D on the announced topic and at UNIS
• Full academic CV
• Transcripts and diplomas showing the completion of bachelor’s and master’s degrees, alternatively an official confirmation that the master’s degree will be completed by 1st July, 2025
• Contact information for two references, one of which must be your master's supervisor
   

It is possible to request that your name/application be exempt from public disclosure in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act (Offentlighetsloven) § 25. The request must be justified. Please note that if the request is not granted, the applicant will be contacted and given the opportunity to withdraw the application.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 

One of UNIS’ values is inclusion. We are committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment in the high Arctic. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of nationality, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, or other characteristics. Applications from women are encouraged.

Selection and appointment
A committee appointed by the Managing director of UNIS will evaluate the qualifications of the applicants and invite the highest ranked person(s) for an interview. The appointment will be made by the Director of UNIS based on the recommendation from the committee.