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This PhD position at KU Leuven is part of the multidisciplinary SSPIRIT project, which aims to advance the numerical modelling of plastic dispersal in the Scheldt Estuary and along the Belgian coast. The project is funded by Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship and involves collaboration with leading research institutes such as VITO, VLIZ, University of Ghent, and University of Antwerp. The Sediment Mechanics Research Unit, within the Hydraulics & Geotechnics Division at KU Leuven, is internationally recognized for its expertise in computational fluid and sediment mechanics and has developed advanced modelling tools like Mixt3SedFOAM and adapted the OpenTELEMAC suite for large-scale aquatic environments. The successful candidate will focus on developing and validating depth-averaged (2DH) and 3D models in the TELEMAC system to simulate the fluxes and fate of plastics. Key research challenges include improving the modelling of beaching and remobilization of plastic pellets lost from petrochemical plants, and enhancing 3D turbulence modelling to study the correlation between microplastics and suspended particulate matter (SPM) concentrations. The project will utilize field data collected by partners for model calibration and validation, and will contribute to the broader SSPIRIT objectives of identifying and quantifying plastic litter across multiple water compartments using remote sensing and advanced modelling. Applicants should have a strong background in engineering, computational fluid dynamics, and scientific programming, with experience in hydraulic or morphodynamic modelling in estuarine and coastal environments. Familiarity with TELEMAC and related modelling systems is highly desirable. The position offers a stimulating, multidisciplinary research environment, with a contract of up to 4 years (renewed annually after evaluation), and salary terms consistent with KU Leuven regulations. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. The application deadline is November 30, 2025. Interested candidates should submit a comprehensive application online, including motivation letter, CV, transcripts, references, and evidence of relevant experience.

The Interuniversity Programme in Water Resources Engineering (IUPWARE) at KU Leuven offers a comprehensive Master’s degree focused on advanced topics in water resources, hydraulics, and environmental engineering. The program is designed for students with a strong interest in hydrology, water management, and sustainable engineering solutions. Courses cover a wide range of subjects including hydrological modeling, field work in diverse international catchments, and practical applications in bioscience engineering. Professor Erik Toorman, who teaches the Hydraulics course, invites prospective students to join an upcoming webinar introducing the Master’s in Water Resources Engineering. The webinar will provide an overview of the curriculum, career prospects, admission requirements, and scholarship opportunities, and will include a live Q&A session. This is an excellent opportunity for students, professionals, and academics interested in pursuing advanced studies in water resources engineering to learn more about the program and interact with faculty members. The IUPWARE program is interuniversity and interfaculty, with administrative registration through KU Leuven. Students benefit from hands-on fieldwork experiences in locations such as Uganda and Ecuador, and have access to a vibrant international community. The program welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and offers generous scholarships through VLIR-UOS for eligible candidates. Detailed information about the program, admission process, and scholarships can be found on the official website (https://iupware.be/). Webinar sessions are scheduled for 10 February (16:00–17:00 CET) and 11 February (10:00–11:00 CET). Registration is required via the provided link. For those interested in applying, the KU Leuven application portal and the VLIR-UOS scholarship page provide step-by-step guidance. The Faculty of Bioscience Engineering at KU Leuven is renowned for its research and teaching excellence in environmental and water sciences. Key academic keywords include Water Resources Engineering, Hydraulics, Environmental Engineering, Hydrological Modeling, Field Work, and Bioscience Engineering. The program is ideal for students seeking to address global water challenges through interdisciplinary research and practical training.