Reservoir Simulation Research Scientist Machine Learning & Optimization Focus
11 hours ago
Houston
Job DescriptionSalary: About the Role: We are seeking a highly motivated Reservoir Simulation Research Scientist to contribute to the next generation of reservoir modeling technologies. This role focuses on the research and development (R&D) of advanced computational methods combining physics-based reservoir simulation with machine learning, data assimilation, and optimization. You will work on developing novel algorithms, enhancing simulation capabilities, and bridging data-driven and physics-based modeling approaches to support the energy transition and improve reservoir management workflows. Key Responsibilities: • Conduct fundamental and applied research in reservoir simulation, computational physics, and data-driven methods., • Develop and prototype novel algorithms that integrate machine learning with traditional reservoir simulation workflows, including surrogate modeling, reduced-order modeling, and hybrid physics-ML models., • Research and implement advanced data assimilation techniques, including ensemble-based methods, adjoint-based gradient optimization, and Bayesian inference for history matching and uncertainty quantification., • Develop and apply optimization algorithms for field development planning, production enhancement, and reservoir control under uncertainty., • Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams including reservoir engineers, geoscientists, data scientists, and software engineers., • Publish research outcomes in peer-reviewed journals, patents, and present at industry and academic conferences., • Provide technical leadership in framing R&D roadmaps, identifying high-impact research directions, and supporting technology transfer into commercial or operational tools., • Contribute to the development of internal software prototypes or production-grade software for reservoir modeling and AI-enabled workflows. Required Qualifications: • Ph.D. in Petroleum Engineering or Reservoir Engineering or a related field with a focus on numerical simulation, optimization, or machine learning applications., • Strong background in numerical methods for PDEs, linear and nonlinear solvers, and reservoir flow physics., • Expertise in reservoir simulation technologies, including finite difference, finite volume, or finite element methods applied to multiphase subsurface flow., • Demonstrated research experience in one or more of the following:, • Machine learning (e.g., surrogate modeling, neural networks, Gaussian processes, physics-informed ML), • Data assimilation (e.g., Ensemble Kalman Filter, Ensemble Smoother, Adjoint-based optimization, Bayesian inference), • Optimization (e.g., field development planning, well control optimization, robust optimization under uncertainty), • Proficiency in scientific programming (ideally Python and MATLAB) for algorithm development and prototyping., • Proven track record of peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, or patents in relevant technical domains. Preferred Qualifications: • Experience integrating physics-based simulation with machine learning frameworks, including Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) or hybrid models., • Knowledge of high-performance computing (HPC), parallel programming, or cloud computing for large-scale simulations., • Familiarity with open-source or commercial reservoir simulators (e.g., MRST, Open Porous Media, Eclipse, Intersect, tNavigator, CMG)., • Experience with probabilistic modeling, uncertainty quantification, and decision-making under uncertainty., • Background in related domains such as CO sequestration, geothermal systems, or unconventional resources modeling is a plus. Soft Skills: • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a rigorous scientific approach., • Ability to communicate complex technical ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences., • Self-driven, collaborative, and passionate about advancing the state of the art in reservoir engineering and computational sciences., • Comfortable working in both independent research settings and collaborative, multi-disciplinary environments. Why Join Us? • Work on cutting-edge problems at the intersection of subsurface science, machine learning, optimization and computational physics., • Be part of a collaborative R&D team influencing the future of energy, carbon management, and sustainable subsurface technologies., • Opportunities to publish, patent, and contribute to open-source software or commercial products., • Competitive compensation, research freedom, and professional growth in a dynamic, innovation-driven environment.