Senior Principal Geologist (Carbonate Development Geologist)

CNPC R&D (DIFC) Company Limited is CNPC’s R&D and Technical Support Centre based in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), We are a strategic technical arm of CNPC, dedicated to supporting the CNPC Group’s upstream asset interests across the Middle East (e.g., UAE, Iraq, Oman). Our mission is to deliver impactful, field-driven R&D through close collaboration with CNPC’s leading upstream research and engineering institutes in China and a network of internal and external global partners. Role PurposeWe are seeking a Senior Principal Geologist with deep expertise in carbonate development to join our technical department as a subject-matter expert. In this role, you will bridge static geological understanding with dynamic field performance, driving the construction of robust conceptual and digital geological models that directly inform field development planning, well placement, and reservoir management strategies.Static Modelling & Conceptual FrameworkLead the construction of high-quality 3D static geological models for complex carbonate reservoirs, integrating structural framework, matrix properties, and fracture characterisation with robust uncertainty quantification.Develop conceptual reservoir models that capture critical geological uncertainties—including depositional architecture, diagenetic overprint, and fracture networks—to support early-stage field development decisions.Ensure that geological concepts and diagenetic models are quantitatively translated into model properties, with clear traceability from data to model output.Field Development & Well SupportProvide authoritative geological input to field development planning (FDP), including well targeting, trajectory optimisation, reservoir compartmentalisation analysis, and recovery factor assessment.Support well planning and operations through geological interpretation while drilling, geosteering decisions, and real-time model updates.Lead appraisal and development activities for complex, naturally fractured carbonate reservoirs throughout project life cycles.Cross-Discipline IntegrationDrive genuine cross-discipline integration across geophysics, petrophysics, and reservoir engineering to build consistent subsurface descriptions.Champion integrated subsurface workflows, promoting best practices in data gathering, quality control, risk/uncertainty management, and static–dynamic model coupling.Facilitate effective communication and alignment between operational teams, Beijing-based research institutes, and external partners.Regional & Strategic StudiesOversee regional geological evaluations and basin modelling to de-risk exploration opportunities, identify by passed pay and upside potential within existing asset portfolios, and support new venture evaluations.Provide strategic geological advice on portfolio positioning and long-term asset maturation.Key AccountabilitiesLead appraisal and development of complex carbonate reservoirs from concept to execution.Ensure geological concepts and diagenetic models are adequately captured in high-quality static models that stand up to dynamic validation.Provide strategic geological input across all project phases, from exploration through to field development planning and operations.Drive cross-discipline integration, communication, and collaborative working practices across geoscience and engineering teams.Qualification and ExperiencePhD degree in Geoscience or a closely related discipline.Minimum 15 years of industry experience in E&P geosciences, with the majority focused on carbonate reservoir development and static modelling.Proven track record in appraisal and development projects for complex carbonate fields, including naturally fractured reservoirs.Deep expertise in carbonate sedimentology, diagenesis, and sequence stratigraphy, with demonstrable ability to translate geological concepts into robust 3D static models.Hands-on experience with industry-standard static modelling platforms (e.g., Petrel, SKUA, or RMS).Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable recommendations for non-technical stakeholders (management, partners, government)Fluent English proficiency (C1 or above）Track record of technical leadership on at least 3–5 major carbonate field development projects, with demonstrable impact on FDP outcomesPublication record in peer-reviewed journals or recognized industry conferences (SPE, AAPG, EAGE) evidence of intellectual contribution to the disciplineExperience in mentoring/developing junior to mid-level geoscientistsExperience with unconventional reservoirs is plus.Familiarity with dynamic data integration (production, PLT, MDT/RFT) into static model updates.Working knowledge of Python or R for data analytics and modelling automation.Previous experience working in Middle East or North Africa carbonate provinces.Track record of mentoring junior geoscientists and leading technical working groups.Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) —this is a baseline requirement; advanced Excel and PowerPoint skills for technical communication are expected.