Real-Time Drilling Monitoring for Subsurface Data Acquisition
Develop wireless sensors and AI-driven systems to automate drilling operations and improve subsurface modeling.
Best for:Best for civil engineering or geotechnical engineering graduates with expertise in soil mechanics, data analysis, and a passion for integrating AI and sensor technology into construction processes.
Overview
This PhD position at Gustave Eiffel University focuses on advancing real-time monitoring of drilling operations to enhance subsurface modeling and risk management in construction and geotechnical engineering. The project aims to create innovative, wireless sensors that record drilling parameters and soil responses, enabling near-real-time identification of terrain heterogeneities. Using geostatistical tools and AI algorithms, the research will establish reliable terrain models and automate drill control to optimize performance, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact. The candidate will collaborate with field teams and data scientists to integrate cutting-edge technology into drilling rigs, ultimately contributing to the robotization of construction machinery.
What you'll do
- Design and develop innovative wireless sensors to measure drilling parameters and soil responses in real time.
- Apply geostatistical tools to analyze drilling data and identify local terrain heterogeneities.
- Develop AI algorithms or expert systems to automate drill control and optimize drilling parameters.
- Collaborate with field teams to integrate sensors and systems into drilling rigs for practical testing.
- Establish a cloud-based database to store and share real-time drilling data for improved subsurface modeling.
- Conduct experiments and field trials to validate the performance and accuracy of the proposed systems.
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at international conferences.
- Contribute to the development of a new electronic architecture for robotizing drilling rigs.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or Continuum Mechanics (or equivalent).
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English proficiency is not explicitly required, but scientific communication in English is expected.
Instruction: French (primary language of supervision and instruction)
- Strong foundation in soil mechanics and geotechnical engineering principles.
- Proficiency in data handling and analysis, including experience with Big Data techniques.
- Familiarity with geostatistical methods for spatial data analysis.
- Basic knowledge of sensor technology and embedded systems.
- Ability to synthesize complex information and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
- Open to international applicants.
- No specific residency or nationality restrictions mentioned.
- No age or prior experience caps.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-12-31
Applicants must submit their application through the official Campus France portal for doctoral admissions. The application should include a CV, a cover letter, a research proposal, and academic transcripts. Additional documents may be requested depending on the evaluation process.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Research proposal
- Academic transcripts (BSc + MSc)
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
Contact
Philippe Reiffsteck· Supervisor
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