Real-time Monitoring of Drilling Operations for Cloud Database Integration
Develop an innovative IoT sensor and AI-driven control system for real-time geotechnical drilling monitoring and automated subsurface modeling.
Best for:Best for civil and geotechnical engineering graduates with a strong interest in soil mechanics, big data, and smart sensor development.
Overview
Université Gustave Eiffel is offering a PhD thesis position focusing on the real-time monitoring of drilling operations to build reliable cloud-based subsurface models. The project involves developing a novel wireless IoT sensor to measure soil response during drilling and applying geostatistical tools to identify local heterogeneities. Additionally, the researcher will design an expert system or artificial intelligence algorithm to automatically control drilling rigs and optimize excavation parameters. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with field teams and data scientists to improve geotechnical site characterization and engineering safety standards. This is a CIFRE-funded doctoral research opportunity starting in October 2026.
What you'll do
- Design and develop an innovative, accurate, intelligent, and wireless IoT sensor for monitoring drilling parameters in real time.
- Analyze soil response measurements and integrate multi-source geotechnical data into a shared cloud-based database.
- Apply geostatistical tools and data analytics to identify local ground heterogeneities and establish reliable subsurface terrain models.
- Develop an artificial intelligence algorithm or expert system to automatically control drill parameters and depth according to design requirements.
- Collaborate with field operations teams and data scientists to validate sensor measurements and data correlations.
- Contribute to the optimization of drilling rig electronic architecture to reduce energy consumption and machine time.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree or equivalent in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or Continuum Mechanics
Degree offered: PhD
Language: Proficiency in French and/or English
Instruction: French and English
- Solid foundation in soil mechanics and geotechnical engineering
- Demonstrated interest and competence in data handling and Big Data analysis
- Strong scientific rigor and capacity for technical synthesis
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for multidisciplinary collaboration
- Must hold an eligible master's degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Continuum Mechanics, or a closely related discipline
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-12-31
Interested candidates should submit their application through the official recruitment portal with a detailed CV, academic transcripts, and a cover letter demonstrating their suitability for the project.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts
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