Jobid=619535237842345668 (0.028)
Overview
Join a PhD project on the physical modelling of Backward Erosion Piping (BEP) with a particular focus on pipe progression and 3D meandering behaviour.
The Netherlands relies heavily on its dikes. However, current models do not show exactly how dikes collapse when seepage flows erode sand underneath a dike (i.e., Backward Erosion Piping, BEP). The Digital Dikes project is changing that. The consortium aims to develop advanced digital models with varying degrees of detail, integrated into a flexible open‑source tool, assimilating monitoring data to give probabilistic predictions. This framework can assess the probability and severity of pipe progression as a function of dike geometry, variability of subsurface properties and hydraulic loads.
The novel technology will be tested through real‑world case studies, co‑designed with industry, government and international users. This makes accurate risk assessment and targeted dike reinforcement possible.
Digital Dikes is funded by The Dutch Research Council (NWO) and involves partners from University of Twente, University of Utrecht, University of Eindhoven, University of Bologna, Deltares and TU Delft.
Responsibilities
Physical modelling has significantly advanced our understanding of BEP initiation and progression, especially regarding the influence of hydraulic gradients, pore fluid pressures and the relative density of granular soils. This PhD position aims to push the boundaries of experimental BEP modelling by developing new experimental setups, incorporating novel measurement techniques and exploring mechanisms that remain only marginally understood, such as the 3D meandering behaviour of pipe networks. The experimental models aim to identify the driving interactions at the grain scale and the influence of a non‑uniform blanket layer in the propagation stage of BEP. This will be complemented by interpreting 3D patterns of BEP in a small setup by means of image analysis and spatial statistics.
Job Requirements
You are a motivated graduate looking to apply your skills and curiosity to improve the reliability and resilience of flood protection structures. With your pioneering mindset and communicative nature, you thrive in complex multidisciplinary teams and have an interest in connecting field data and observations with the lab.
We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with:
- A Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Hydraulic Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Soil Mechanics, Engineering Geology or a closely related field.
- Strong interest in experimental research and physical modelling.
- Programming skills such as Python or MATLAB, and keen interest in applying them to image analysis and data processing.
- Affinity with granular materials, fluid–soil interaction or soil erosion processes.
- Experience with laboratory work, imaging techniques or particle‑scale measurements is preferred, but not required.
- Strong scientific writing skills, with the ability to document experimental work clearly and translate findings into high‑quality scientific publications.
- Good communication skills and the ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment, learning and communicating with project stakeholders.
- Proficiency in English, spoken and written.
- Availability to start in Autumn 2026.
Conditions of Employment
Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4‑year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5‑year contract with an official go/no‑go progress assessment within 15 months, followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.
As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline‑related and research skills.
The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, a monthly work costs contribution and the possibility of flexible work schedules.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Deel deze vacature: