De-risking unconventional hydrocarbon exploration through novel biogeochemical approaches: towards a systematic understanding of organic matter processes in the subsurface and their impact on the environment

Shale gas is a major new energy source but is yet to be commercially exploited in Europe. Depending on how this opportunity develops, the new source of gas could contribute to decarbonising of energy with the potential to support the transition to a localised hydrogen economy. Experience from commercial operations in North America, however, have shown that in-situ microbial activity and associated fluid-rock interactions can result in the unintentional mobilisation of harmful elements (e.g. heavy metals, hydrogen sulphide, and naturally occurring radioactive material, NORMs) in flowback water that will require additional processing to prevent impacts on near-surface/surface environment, and treatment. What is less known is if organic contaminants of environmental concern (e.g. PAHs) are associated are also mobilized, adding to environmental issues, and how these contaminants are possibly linked to the sources and preservation of organic matter in the shales.

All these challenges are of key for shale gas exploration in the UK and worldwide. The project will improve the understanding of the importance and impact of microbial action in the subsurface and how they may affect the development of new subsurface technologies; this is key to the NERC large capital UKGEOS program, which provides a unique framework at the interface between science and industry.

Our initial pioneering work has demonstrated that the quantity, composition, molecular size and structure of the DOC from rock-water experiments allow improved understanding of these subsurface processes, through separating and characterizing classes of DOM with different reactivities and properties. By pairing DOC characterization with inorganic analysis, surface imaging and microbial community analysis this project aims to determine the mechanisms by which DOC, metals and sulphur are released during hydraulic fracturing. Additionally, the selected student will explore whether the released DOC can stimulate microbial sulphur reduction and hydrogen sulphide production, which can lead to increased environmental risk, once transported to the surface.

With this scope, this project sets a new theme of research, with a large potential to grow to more sophisticated experimental designs (high pressure and temperature experiments).

For more specific details on this project, including training and placement opportunities, please see the full advertisement at: http://www.iapetus.ac.uk/iap2-18-170-de-risking-unconventional-hydrocarbon-exploration-through-novel-biogeochemical-approaches-towards-a-systematic-understanding-of-organic-matter-processes-in-the-subsurface-and-their-impac/ or contact: [Email Address Removed]

All applicants should meet NERC’s eligibility criteria to be considered for an IAPETUS2 studentship and these are detailed in NERC’s current studentship handbook.

IAPETUS2 is looking for candidates with the following qualities and backgrounds:

- A first or 2:1 undergraduate degree, or have relevant comparable experience;
- Candidates may also hold or be completing a Masters degree in their area of proposed study or a related discipline;
- An outstanding academic pedigree and research potential, such as evidenced through the publication of articles, participation in academic conferences and other similar activities.

Applicants must apply to Heriot-Watt University via the online application form, select PhD Environment and include reference IAP2-18-103. You must provide a current CV, degree certificates and full transcripts, a research proposal in the form of a cover letter, no greater than 2 sides in length, detailing the reasons for applying and why you have selected the project. You must also provide two (or more) references, avoiding any references from any members of the supervisory team for project that they wish to conduct.

The selected applicant will proceed to an interview at the IAPETUS2 Studentships Panel, which will meet on Wednesday 20th February 2019. The studentship will commence in September/October 2019, except in exceptional circumstances.