Postdoc Title: Thermal and Subsidence Evolution of the Arzacq, Parentis, and Comminges Basins (North Pyrenean Domain): Implications for Natural Hydrogen Potential M/F

Job Description

Missions

The postdoctoral researcher will be hosted at the University of Montpellier and will work in close collaboration with the French Geological Survey (BRGM, Orléans). The postdoctoral researcher will be recruited within the framework of the IDYLLE project (Impact of Lithosphere Dynamics and Basin Evolution on the Exploration of Energy Resources and Geological Potential) of the PEPR “Subsurface, bien commun”, funded by the French National Research Agency (ANR). This project involves the CNRS, BRGM, IFP Energies nouvelles (IFPen), the Universities of Montpellier, Toulouse, Lorraine, and the University of Pau. The IDYLLE project aims to understand the impact of lithospheric processes controlling heat, fluid, and gas transfers on the formation of resources such as natural hydrogen. This issue will be re-evaluated in the Aquitaine Basin and the northern Pyrenees.

Activity

This postdoctoral project aims to reconstruct the thermal evolution and subsidence history of the Comminges, Arzacq-Tartas, and Parentis basins from Cretaceous rifting to Pyrenean compression, in order to quantify their natural hydrogen potential. This approach will make it possible to quantify their natural hydrogen potential in relation to Lower Cretaceous rifting processes and their subsequent inversion during the Pyrenean orogeny. The project will rely on the study of four geological transects to reconstruct subsidence evolution and its driving mechanisms (thermal, tectonic, or combined). Paleotemperatures of the sedimentary cover will be constrained using Raman spectroscopy of carbonaceous material (RSCM method), complemented by bottom-hole temperatures (BHT) and heat flow data to define present-day thermal gradients. These data will be integrated into TemisFlow (Themis) thermal models to reconstruct the thermal and subsidence history of the basins. The modeling will quantify the distribution of heat flow during the Cretaceous, evaluate the duration and intensity of thermal anomalies related to crustal thinning, and test the existence of a post-rift cooling phase. Gravity and magnetic modeling will constrain the distribution and degree of mantle serpentinization, as well as its structural controls in the North Pyrenean zone. Numerical modeling of mantle-derived H₂ production within the North Pyrenean orogenic prism will be carried out to estimate daily hydrogen production and assess the fertility and economic potential of these basins.

Your Profil

Skills

datasets into quantitative and numerical models. Strong analytical and synthesis skills are expected. Excellent scientific writing abilities, autonomy, and the capacity to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team are essential.
The application file must contain the following documents:
• A cover letter containing a brief account of the applicant's research interests and motivation for applying for the position;
• The names and contact information for two referees;
• A CV including a list of publications and the date of the PhD defense;
• Transcripts and diplomas showing completion of the bachelor's and master's and PhD degrees

Your Work Environment

The postdoctoral researcher will be supervised at Géosciences Montpellier by N. Saspiturry. Géosciences Montpellier is a joint research unit affiliated with the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and the University of Montpellier. The laboratory aims to improve the understanding of geodynamic processes across different spatial and temporal scales and to contribute to the assessment of natural resources. The candidate will be co-supervised by A. Lahfid (BRGM) on the reconstitution of basin thermal histories using data of RSCM geothermometry. He will also benefit from significant input from experienced researchers, including subsidence (B. Issautier, BRGM & C. Robin, Rennes University), gravimetric and magnetic modeling (A. Peyrefitte & C. Allanic, BRGM), thermal modeling (A. Gay, Geosciences Montpellier) and modeling for natural hydrogen production (R. Christiansen, Leibniz Institute for Applied Geophysics).

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

From €3,071 gross monthly, depending on experience

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

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