Internship | Graduation project; Integration of maximum burial depth methods

Reservoir porosity is usually dependent on the amount of compaction that the reservoir has undergone. To predict the porosity of a reservoir it is therefore important to know its maximum burial depth. This internship project aims to integrate different maximum burial depth models to get a better understanding of the maximum burial depth of reservoirs in the Dutch subsurface. This will be done by collecting maximum burial datasets and to compare and integrate existing models and studies. In addition, the student will estimate maximum burial depths from sonic logs. We are aiming to start with the internship from July 2025 onwards (flexible). The expected duration will be 6 months (flexible).

What is the project about?
Reservoir quality of geothermal reservoirs is strongly determined by its porosity. This porosity is mainly influenced by the maximum burial depth of the rock. Existing models of the maximum burial depth are primarily based on an estimate of the amount of eroded rock. However, this is accompanied by significant uncertainties. Integration with other methods could potentially result in a better and more accurate estimate. Therefore, this research tries to answer what the maximum burial depth is of different clay intervals based on sonic velocities and how this relates to existing models and studies?

What will be your role?
The project requires maximum burial data collection, QC and interpretation. Comparison and integration of existing models to be able to make updated maximum burial depth maps of the Netherlands.

We are looking for a master's student or a student who would use this topic for a master's thesis with the following profile:

• Study: you are studying geosciences or (applied) earth sciences.
• Language: English required, Dutch optional but desirable.
• Interests: Log interpretations, Geoscience, Geothermal Energy.
• Skills: Basic log interpretation, quickly grasping complex topics, analytically strong, collaborative, proactive.

You want an internship opportunity on the precursor of your career; an internship gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative internship environment, within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo-, hbo- and mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet other TNO professionals and join several activities, such as sports activities, (work-related) courses or the yearly ski-trip.
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

You can work hybrid, at home or in the TNO office at the Princetonlaan 6 in Utrecht. At TNO, you will work in the Advisory Group for Economic Affairs & Climate (AGE) within the Geological Survey of the Netherlands. You will work with colleagues of all ages and backgrounds, whose main task is to advise the Ministry of Economic Affairs & Climate and other public stakeholders (Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment, State Supervision of Mines, EBN and Gasunie). In addition, you will also collaborate closely with colleagues from other TNO departments,. Most of our Utrecht colleagues are geoscientists experienced in geology, geophysics, geomodelling, and data analysis. They will guide you on the concepts you need to perform your work.

The atmosphere at TNO-Utrecht is welcoming and pleasant. While we enjoy our work and work hard, there is always time to have coffee together and exciting chats about multidisciplinary topics. We often have lunch walks through the Botanic Garden and sometimes go out for drinks or fun activities organized by the department.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity and inclusion.

After the first CV selection, the application process will be conducted by the concerning department. TNO will provide a suitable internship agreement. If you have any questions about this vacancy, you can contact the contact person mentioned below.

For this internship vacancy it is required that the AIVD issues a security clearance (VGB) after conducting a security screening. Take into account that this process may take about 8 weeks. If you have been abroad for more than 6 consecutive months, or if you do not have the Dutch nationality, it may take longer. Read more about security screening on the AIVD website.

Important to be aware of before applying:

• Before the start of the internship, the internship agreement from TNO needs to be signed. For students at a college or university based in the Netherlands, TNO uses the UNL-template (supplemented with a number of specific agreements from TNO). For students of foreign and MBO educational institutions, the TNO internship agreement applies. TNO does not sign any other internship agreements.
• Before the start of the internship, the educational institution will need to confirm in writing that:
  • 1) you are enrolled at the educational institution during the internship, and;
  • 2) the internship takes place as part of the programme of the study.
• The confirmation of educational institution takes place by signing the UNL template or forms prepared by TNO.
• Interns at TNO must be in possession of a Dutch residential address at the start of the internship. Performance of internship activities from abroad is not possible.