R&D Production Technology - Graduate Internship (Summer 2027)

OVERVIEW: The Production Technology team conducts applied research and develops innovative materials and geomechanics related methods and technologies to improve the mechanism understanding and practical operations of drilling, completion, production and underground storage in both conventional and unconventional reservoirs. The Graduate Summer Intern supports a defined research project for underground gas storage involving computational geomechanics simulation which involves lab testing data. Working under the guidance of experienced researchers, the intern will contribute to project deliverables while gaining practical experience in an industrial R&D environment. SCOPE: Focused on completing a defined, supervised research assignment related to computational geomechanics simulation for underground gas storage. PRINCIPAL DUTIES: • Research and Technical Support • Contribute to a defined research project for underground gas storage involving computational geomechanics simulation which involves lab testing data. • Construct and calibrate core-scale models with lab test data on core plugs in ELFEN-Lab Scale module. • Plug in calibrated fines migration models and permeability evolution into wellbore scale models. • Perform parametric study to identify critical influential factors behind fines migration. • Develop a criterion or procedure for optimizing gas injection & withdrawal operation schemes. • Collaboration and Communication • Collaborate with assigned mentor, participate in technical discussions, and incorporate feedback into assigned work. • Prepare a technical report, project updates, and a final presentation summarizing the research problem, approach, results, and conclusions. • Support preparation of publications, conference materials, or other technical communications when appropriate. • Safety and Professional Responsibilities • Follow all laboratory safety procedures and contribute to a safe, accident-free work environment. • Comply with company safety, cybersecurity, confidentiality, and professional conduct requirements. • Perform other project-related duties as assigned within the scope of the internship. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, geoscience, mechanics, or a related field, with current enrollment in a PhD graduate program in one of these disciplines. • Relevant coursework or research experience in rock mechanics, analytical and computational geomechanics, reservoir engineering, in-situ test or related subsurface systems is preferred. • Experience in data analysis, numerical methods, or scientific computing is desirable. • Familiarity with technical computing or programming tools such as Python, C++, or MATLAB is desirable. • Ability to review technical literature, analyze results, maintain research records, and communicate findings clearly in written and spoken English. • Ability to work independently and collaboratively, follow guidance, and demonstrate professionalism, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic. • Availability for the full internship term (mid May - early August) Opportunity eligible for internship course credit (credits earned), please check with your Academic Advisor or University.