The Institute of Water and Flood Management (IWFM) at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) is inviting applications for 8 PhD positions under the NWO (Dutch Research Council)-funded project "Systems Approach for Creating Sustainable Landscape and Resilient Community in Riverine and Coastal Socio-Ecological System." The project is a collaboration between BUET, Jagannath University, Utrecht University, and other partners, focusing on the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna (GBM) delta and its socio-ecological challenges. The research aims to address the high biophysical vulnerability of the GBM delta, including flood risk, cyclonic storms, sedimentation, and climate change impacts. The project will use a social-ecological systems (SES) perspective to analyze the interconnectedness of socio-demographic, economic, governance, and environmental factors. Key research areas include water and sediment management (WSM), climate resilience, delta management, and the development of sustainable strategies for local communities. PhD candidates will work on topics such as conceptualizing baseline stresses in the delta, evaluating water-sediment management strategies, and investigating the effectiveness of interventions like embankments, dredging, and nature-based solutions. The research will involve both physical and socio-economic analysis, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and fieldwork in Bangladesh. Applicants must have a relevant MSc or equivalent degree, strong analytical and communication skills, and a willingness to work in interdisciplinary teams. Experience in numerical modeling, participatory research, and statistical analysis is desirable. The program offers a competitive fellowship, travel grants, and support for visits to Utrecht University. To apply, candidates should submit a CV, Letter of Intent, and names of three referees to Professor Md. Munsur Rahman and Dr. Shampa. The application deadline is 15 March 2026, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews at IWFM, BUET, Dhaka.

Applications are open for 8 fully funded PhD positions under the project "Systems Approach for Creating Sustainable Landscape and Resilient Community in Riverine and Coastal Socio-Ecological System," funded by the Dutch Research Council (NWO). The positions are primarily based at the Institute of Water and Flood Management (IWFM), Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), with additional opportunities at Jagannath University and Utrecht University. The research focuses on water and sediment management (WSM), climate resilience, socio-ecological systems, and sustainable development in the GBM (Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna) delta region of Bangladesh. The project addresses critical challenges such as flood risk, sedimentation, land subsidence, waterlogging, and the impacts of climate change and sea-level rise. It aims to develop integrated systems frameworks for adaptive delta management, combining biophysical, socio-economic, and governance perspectives. Research topics include baseline stress analysis, river and sediment management strategies, embankment reliability, and the effectiveness of nature-based solutions. Applicants should have a relevant MSc or MEng degree (e.g., Civil Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Environmental Management, Hydrology, Physical Geography, Botany, Ecology, or equivalent) with a minimum GPA of 2.75/4.0 (for BUET) or equivalent. Strong English skills, analytical and modeling abilities, and willingness to conduct fieldwork in coastal Bangladesh are required. Experience with Python, model packages, and interdisciplinary teamwork is valued. Publications are an added advantage. Funding includes a fellowship package for 39–47 months, a gross monthly allowance of 2,500 Euro during Utrecht University visits, travel, accommodation, and insurance. Successful candidates will receive a PhD degree from Utrecht University. The application deadline is 28 February 2026. To apply, submit a CV, Letter of Intent, and three referees to Professor Md. Munsur Rahman and Dr. Shampa Shampa via email. Shortlisted candidates will undergo a multi-stage selection process, including an interview at IWFM, BUET. Key academic keywords: water management, sediment management, coastal systems, climate resilience, socio-ecological systems, riverine processes, environmental engineering, hydrology, flood management, Bangladesh delta.