On the hunt for geophysicists

Statoil needs more geophysicists. The group will offer jobs to talented science graduates and a one-year course in geophysics at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim.

“We need more science graduates who can analyse large amounts of complex data,” says Monica Varøy Haga, head of knowledge management in the Technology & Projects (T&P) business area. “We will recruit 16 bright mathematicians, physicists, statisticians and similar with a minimum master’s degree and who have only recently completed their education.”

The candidates will be employed in the group from day one, and are obliged to complete a one-year education in the geo disciplines at the NTNU. The science graduates will work at Statoil’s research centre at Rotvoll near Trondheim for the first year.

“There are many talented science graduates who just lack the oil and gas discipline,” says Ms Varøy Haga. “Initially we are looking for candidates from the Nordic countries.

The geophysicists will play an important role in the work of collecting, processing and interpreting geophysical data. Statoil is exploring for oil and gas in ever more challenging areas. At the same time, the need for leading-edge expertise is increasing.

The group is also collaborating with the NTNU for the recruitment of 6 doctoral scholars for geophysics research projects defined by Statoil.

“These candidates may have a master’s degree in geophysics, mathematics, physics, astrophysics, oceanography or similar,” adds Ms Varøy Haga.

The scholarship holders will receive a scholarship salary and will be employed by the NTNU. Some of them may be offered a job in Statoil when they have completed their doctorate.

Tina Todnem (32) started her career as one of 16 candidates in Statoil’s school for geophysicists in 1998. Today she is a head geophysicist in the Tampen area in the North Sea.

“My job is very interesting,” says Ms Todnem. “No two days are the same. There is no shortage of challenges. Statoil is making a strong commitment to technology and is one of the first to implement new research. I have good colleagues, and I spend a lot of time working in a team.”