Superhot Rock Geothermal Consultant

Superhot Rock Geothermal Consultant

Cornell University’s Department of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences (EAS) is advertising an open position to help advance the development of superhot rock (SHR) geothermal reservoirs at or above approximately 400 C for geothermal energy production.  The goal is to prepare a white paper to help with policy recommendations to advance SHR along with peer-reviewed publications to identify research needs in SHR development. The collaborative report with Clean Air Task Force will focus on 1) identification of early demonstration sites based on existing methods and published data and 2) review of geophysics / remote sensing and in-situ methods and engineering gaps for identification, characterization, and monitoring of SHR resources in dry crystalline rock, throughout the lifecycle of reservoir development and heat extraction. The consultant will work with an advisory team of academics and geothermal experts to review the state of the art and identify key gaps to explore, develop, and achieve economic commercialization of SHR geothermal resources.

The successful candidate will have:

• Experience in the fields of geosciences (such as geophysics, geology, reservoir engineering, geothermal energy, and volcanology.)
• Excellent English communication skills, including writing reports/publications and presentations for technical and lay audiences.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team to produce deliverables on a deadline.

The job is envisioned as a full-time, 9-month postdoctoral position, but could be flexible to accommodate part-time availability and/or a different career stage for the right candidate. Salary will be commensurate with experience. Remote work is acceptable, with travel funds available to workshops/conferences for coordination with team and presentation of results. Review of applicants (including interviews of top candidates) will begin February 12 on a rolling basis, CVs should be submitted (to ssaltiel@cornell.edu) by February 15 for full consideration, but please reach out if you are unable to meet this deadline. The position is expected to start by early March 2024. Feel free to reach out with any questions to Prof. Seth Saltiel at ssaltiel@cornell.edu.

This post-doctoral position could possibly lead to a full-time position with Clean Air Task Force’s Superhot Rock Geothermal Team.

Who We Are:

Cornell Atkinson:

At Cornell Atkinson, we catalyze extraordinary change. We do it by making vital connections among diverse collaborators. We foster creative collisions that provoke large-scale, long-term change by teaming Cornell researchers, faculty, and students with government agencies, for-profit businesses, nonprofits, and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). We believe that our multidisciplinary consortium model makes us singularly well-positioned to address the integrated systems—including food, water, health, economics, and energy—that unite us all.

Clean Air Task Force:

Clean Air Task Force (CATF) is a nonprofit organization working to safeguard against the worst impacts of climate change by catalyzing the rapid global development and deployment of low-carbon energy and other climate-protecting technologies. This is accomplished through research and analysis, public advocacy leadership, and partnership with the private sector. CATF is highly respected for its deep expertise and research on energy and industrial systems and potential strategies, technologies, and policies that can radically shrink their impact on the planet’s atmosphere. Our team of 150+ experts and advocates (and global network of subject matter experts and civil society partners) put this research and knowledge into action by designing and enacting public policies that drive toward zero emissions. We also support policies and work directly with private industry to innovate in technology to make the path to zero emissions swift and affordable.  CATF is headquartered in Boston and has offices in Washington D.C. and Brussels with staff working virtually around the world.

EAS:

The Department of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences (EAS) at Cornell University includes 27 faculty, more than 20 postdocs and research staff, and about 150 students with more than $14 million annual expenditures in sponsored research.  EAS research spans geochemistry, geophysics, planetary science, atmospheric and climate sciences, and more.  EAS helps lead the Cornell University Borehole Observatory and the Earth Source Heat project that seeks to heat the campus with deep direct use geothermal fluids. Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose and contribute creative ideas to further the university's mission of teaching, discovery and engagement. With our main campus located in Ithaca, NY, Cornell's far-flung global presence includes the medical college's campuses on the Upper East Side of Manhattan and Doha, Qatar, as well as the Cornell Tech campus located on Roosevelt Island in the heart of New York City.

EEO Statement:

Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University’s heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, and we do not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex/gender, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law. 

Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff to all identities and backgrounds. We encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.