Sedimentology and Modelling of North Sea, Jurassic marine reservoirs

The Jurassic succession of the North Sea basin contains some of Norway’s most important hydrocarbon-bearing intervals. Some of the most prolific units in these successions are of shallow marine origin (e.g. Brent Group). As such, the heterogeneity in their record reflects the dynamics of wave, tidal and fluvial sedimentary processes in coastal environments. Despite its economic significance and large amount of information and studies, predicting the distribution and internal architecture of these reservoirs remains challenging, and in some conditions can become problematic for simulations of oil and gas production and/or CO₂ injection.

Supervisors

Main supervisor: Tor Sømme, UiB-GEO/Equinor
Co-supervisor: Augustin Scotti, Equinor
Co-supervisor: Christian H. Eide, UiB-GEO

Project description

This project aims to improve understanding of the depositional architecture and reservoir characteristics of one of these units through an integrated approach combining well data analysis and numerical forward stratigraphic modelling. Particular emphasis will be placed on identifying the controls on sediment distribution, stacking patterns, and facies variability within shallow marine systems.

Figure showing different approaches to modelling subsurface data
Different approaches to modelling subsurface data. Photo: Augustin Scotti

To complement and extend these interpretations, the project will incorporate numerical modelling using Geopard (and/or Delft3D), a forward stratigraphic modelling tool. The student will design and run simulations to test how variations in parameters such as sediment supply, accommodation space, sea-level changes, and tidal influence affect reservoir geometry and facies distribution. By comparing model outputs with actual data, the project will assess the ability of numerical models to reproduce observed geological patterns and refine interpretations of the depositional system. This approach will help bridge the gap between conceptual geological models and quantitative simulation, providing insights into the spatial distribution of high-quality reservoir units and potential heterogeneities that impact fluid flow.  Through this work, the student will develop practical skills in sedimentological interpretation, subsurface data integration, and numerical modelling. 

The project will provide valuable experience in combining geological observations with modelling techniques, a skillset highly relevant to subsurface characterization in both hydrocarbon exploration and broader geoscience applications such as CO₂ storage. 

Field-, lab- and analysis work

Numerical modelling and some core/well analysis

Proposed course plan

GEOV272 (10p), GEOV361 (10p), GEOV251 (10p), GEOV261 (10p), GEOV320 (5), GEOV360 (10p), GEOV302 (5p)

 

NB! This project is not yet approved by the program board

Last updated: 30.06.2026