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PhD in Applied Geosciences - Petrophysics and Geomechanics

University of Leeds

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University of Leeds

Course options

3 options available

  • Qualification

    PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

  • Location

    Leeds, Main

  • Study mode

    Full time

  • Start date

    FEB

  • Duration

    3 Years

Course summary

Petrophysics is the study of the physics of rocks and is particularly interested in how the microstructures of these porous media affect their mechanical, electrical, thermal, fluid flow and sonic properties. We concentrate on five principal areas of research in the University of Leeds Petrophysics Laboratory: The electrical properties of rocks. Our expertise is in modelling and developing fundamental theory in this area. Recent breakthroughs have included the generalisation of Archie’s law and the unification of the cementation and saturation experiments, the measurements of the most accurate steady-state electrokinetic measurements and the development of methodologies for measuring frequency-dependent streaming potential coefficients. These techniques help us develop methods for imaging the subsurface remotely. Nanoparticle-based enhanced oil recovery. We collaborate with the School of Chemical and Process Engineering to study how production from existing reservoirs can be significantly improved by using nanoparticles to mobilise the remaining oil by modifying the internal characteristics of the reservoir. These techniques have the potential for making existing hydrocarbon resources last at least 20% longer and result in significant mitigation of environmental damage. The microstructural and flow properties of gas shales. This new project, in collaboration with the School of Chemical and Process Engineering and UK-based hydrocarbon companies, studies the interplay between prostate, connectivity and fluid flow involved in the production of gas from very low permeability shales through fractures. Experimental measurements and modelling are being undertaken to discover methods for the optimisation of gas production. Carbonate petrophysics. Over half of the world’s hydrocarbon resources are in carbonate reservoirs, and many of these are of low permeability. This project is concerned with the understanding of the microstructures of carbonate reservoirs and the processes involved in their creation, as well as linking those microstructures to judgements of reservoir quality for the improvement of hydrocarbon production. Research is highly experimental but has also resulted in new methods for predicting fluid flow in tight carbonate reservoirs. Advanced fractal reservoir modelling - This research explores the new idea that reservoir models based on fractal mathematics might improve on conventional reservoir modelling approaches. We have successfully achieved a full reservoir modelling approach with this new method.

Application deadline

06/10/2025

Tuition fees

Students living in United States
(International fees)

£ 31,000per year

Tuition fees shown are for indicative purposes and may vary. Please check with the institution for most up to date details.

University information

University of Leeds

University of Leeds

University of Leeds

  • University League Table

    21st

  • Campus address

    University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, England

VIEW PROFILE
A global community with staff and students from over 130 countries, providing opportunities to meet and work with people from around the world.
The University of Leeds continually invests in its campus, from new labs and lecture theatres to one of the most impressive libraries in the UK.
The University of Leeds has been welcoming international students for over 100 years, so you can be sure of experienced help throughout your time at Leeds.

Subject rankings

  • Subject ranking

    Geology

    9th out of 27 1

  • Entry standards

    / Max 222
    151 68%

    13th

  • Graduate prospects

    / Max 100
    90.0 90%

    8th

    3

  • Student satisfaction

    / Max 4
    3.08 77%

    20th

    4

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