The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Fossil Energy (FE) invites graduate students and early-career professionals interested in learning more about carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) to apply for the 2018 Research Experience in Carbon Sequestration (RECS) program. The RECS program offers graduate students and individuals starting off in their careers the opportunity to gain hands-on field research experience in areas related to CCUS.

CCUS is a combination of technologies for capturing, compressing, transporting, using, and permanently storing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from large, stationary fossil energy facilities.

Supported by FE and the National Energy Technology Laboratory, RECS 2018 is scheduled for July 22–28 in Birmingham, Alabama. The program is now accepting applications, and the deadline to apply is June 30.

An intensive science and field-based program, RECS 2018 will be hosted by Southern Company and DOE’s Southeast Carbon Sequestration Partnership. The program combines classroom instruction with group exercises and CCUS field experience; it also involves several site visits to locations such as the National Carbon Capture Center, CarbonSAFE, and the Geological Survey of Alabama. Topics cover the range of CCUS deployment issues with a particular focus on CO₂ utilization, enhanced oil recovery, and carbon storage.

Founded in 2004, RECS was the first program for young scientists and engineers to offer intensive CCUS training and workforce development. It has become the premier summer research experience and career network for students and young professionals interested in this field.

Applicants should be early-career professionals, Ph.D., or master’s degree students with backgrounds in geology, chemistry, hydrology, physics, engineering, natural sciences, and related fields. Enrollment is limited to 20 participants, and applicants are welcome from throughout the United States.

RECS is tuition-free, and the program covers housing and travel costs. Application instructions are found on the RECS web site: www.recsco2.org.