General information

Reference

2026-4048  

Position description

Category

F09 Geology - Engineer / Researcher

Job title

Postdoctoral Researcher in Sedimentary Basin Geology (M/F)

Contract

Post-doctoral contrat

Contractual hours

Full-time

Contract duration

24 months

Context and contributions of the position

Title: 3D characterization of the subsurface geometry of the Nord-Pas-de-Calais mining basin (France) for the assessment of its deep geothermal resources
The GEOTHERBAMINE project, funded by the French PEPR program “Subsurface as a Common Good,” aims to investigate the geothermal potential of the Nord–Pas-de-Calais mining basin (France). This basin, composed of siliciclastic sedimentary sequences overlying a Carboniferous carbonate substratum, exhibits complex compressional deformation related to the Variscan orogeny.
The Belgian Mons example, where geothermal exploitation has been successfully operating for over 40 years, highlights the potential of these still underexplored geological series. This postdoctoral position is part of WP3 of the project, which aims to reassess in 3D the structural architecture of the basin and its carbonate basement, targeted for geothermal applications.
You will join the “Basement, Orogens and Sedimentary Basins Geology” Unit (GSB) within the “Subsurface Knowledge and Geomodelling Division” at BRGM. The GSB unit focuses on acquiring, enhancing, mapping, and modelling geological knowledge of sedimentary basins and basement domains, both onshore and offshore, in France and internationally. Through the understanding of geological processes, the unit provides an integrated view of interactions between geological bodies, enabling the characterization of their geometry and physical properties.

Job description

As part of this postdoctoral project, you will:
- Interpret approximately 300 km of reprocessed seismic reflection profiles acquired in the western and eastern sectors of the mining basin;
- Integrate and harmonize these newly interpreted seismic lines converted to depth with existing datasets and models, ensuring kinematic and structural consistency at the basin scale in 3D;
- Build and update a regional 3D structural model of the basin, incorporating major tectonic discontinuities (transfer zones, thrust faults, etc…);
- Integrate multi-source datasets (seismic data, boreholes, coal horizon maps and associated fault networks, gravimetric data) to refine the geometry of deep reservoirs;
- Develop a robust structural framework to support:
-kinematic modelling of thermal regimes and fluid circulation (WP4),
-and, where possible, petrophysical characterization of reservoir units at the local scale (WP2).
You will contribute to delivering a coherent, up-to-date, and operational 3D representation of these deep reservoirs, essential for assessing the geothermal potential of the basin.
More broadly, you will contribute to the scientific visibility of BRGM and the PEPR program by disseminating your research through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at national and international conferences.

Your work will be supervised by Dr. L. Beccaletto (BRGM, Orléans, France) and Dr. O. Averbuch (LOG Laboratory, University of Lille, France). As a full member of the project team, you will collaborate with numerous partners involved in the GEOTHERBAMINE project (University of Cergy, IFPEN, University of Mons in Belgium, ENGIE).

https://www.soussol-bien-commun.fr/en/2024-call-projects/geotherbamine-understanding-fluid-circulation-subsurface-former-nord-pas-de

Profile

Requested start date : October 1st, 2026
Contract type : Postdoctoral 24 months
Education : PhD

You hold a PhD in Earth Sciences and have strong expertise in structural geology and sedimentary basin modelling.
Scientific and technical skills:
- Strong background in structurally complex sedimentary basins, with a solid understanding of fold-and-thrust belt;
- In-depth knowledge of deformation processes in orogenic belts, structural inheritance, and tectonic inversion within the Variscan geodynamic framework;
- Proven experience in seismic reflection interpretation, ideally using dedicated software (horizon picking, fault network interpretation, time–depth conversion);
- Proficiency in 3D geological modelling of complex geological systems, regardless of the software used;
- Strong interest in deep geothermal resources and their geological characterization.
Transversal skills:
- Excellent analytical, synthesis, and multi-source data integration skills;
- Ability to work autonomously while contributing effectively within a multidisciplinary team;
- Strong scientific communication skills, both written and oral, in English (knowledge of French is not mandatory but would be an asset);
- Ability to collaborate with academic and industrial partners in an international project framework.

Working conditions

The position is based in Orléans, with regular travel to Lille.
Within an environment that promotes a healthy work/life balance, particularly thanks to remote working, BRGM prides itself on providing a friendly and caring place to work.
Awarded HRS4R certification in 2021, we are committed to supporting you throughout your career at BRGM. We provide you with a range of tools for developing your skills and expertise, with scope for career progression and geographic mobility.
At BRGM, you will gain from such benefits as a 13th month salary, days off compensating for unpaid overtime, a company canteen, sports facilities as well as holiday and leisure options.

At BRGM, you are guaranteed a transparent recruitment process. To apply, please send us your application (up-to-date CV and cover letter) by May 29, 2026.

Because diversity matters to us at BRGM, all our job vacancies are open to everyone!

We will examine your application as soon as the closing date has passed. If your application is short-listed, we will contact you for recruitment interviews during which you will have the opportunity to talk with the recruitment and HR departments as well as a cross-functional department.

https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/web/france-visas/accueil

Position location

Job location

France, Centre-Val de Loire, Loiret (45)

Location