The Intelligent Well systems Technologygroup (http://www.pet.hw.ac.uk/research/iwst/)is looking for a PhDstudent to work in the area of modelling and evaluationof advanced downhole hardware used in hydrocarbon production. Thestudentship is available to UK/EU/Overseas candidates. It includes fees andan appropriate stipend. The Institute is committed to equality ofopportunity.

The successful candidate will be involved in development of software toolsfor optimising the operation of downhole equipment. This will be donethrough assessing efficiency of various optimization algorithms with respectto problem of optimal settings for interval control valves and fine tuningof the best algorithms. The group is funded by a number of Upstream OilIndustry operating and service companies. They evaluate the progress of thework via regular meetings held in Edinburgh at four monthly intervals.Applicants will typically already be in possession of a MSc. degree inMathematics or Physics with an outstanding academic or research record.Familiarity with the MATLAB and/or Simulink computing environments,knowledge of Artificial Intelligence will be an advantage, as will beprevious practical experience in the optimization of industrial processes. APetroleum Engineering background will also be useful, but is not essentialsince suitable training course can be provided as required.

To apply please send CV, academic records and a completed application formto Ms Anne Mathers anne.mathers@pet.hw.ac.uk. All other enquires should besent to Dr. David Davies david.davies@pet.hw.ac.uk.

Closing Date for Applications: 15th December 2006
Start Date: As soon as possible

Additional Information:
The Institute of Petroleum Engineering, located on a modern campus on theoutskirts of Edinburgh, focuses on research and teaching for the upstreamOil and Gas resource industry. The Institute of Petroleum Engineering isrecognised internationally as one of the leading centres of excellence inPetroleum Engineering teaching, training and research. It has one of thelargest Geoscience and Petroleum Engineering research programme at a UK orEuropean University. The Institute's currently complement is some 100 staff,60 research students and 100 residential MSc. students.