This PhD position at the University of Twente is part of the NWO-funded SOURCE program, which focuses on Sand nOURishment strategies for sustainable coastal ecosystems. The SOURCE initiative aims to develop scientific knowledge, models, and design tools for effective sand nourishment strategies, ensuring resilient and multifunctional coastal landscapes for the future. The program features two Living Labs along the Dutch coast, where sand nourishments are co-designed, monitored, and evaluated by a consortium of academic institutes, government organizations, research institutes, nature organizations, and industry partners.

As a PhD candidate, you will investigate cross-shore sand transport processes at various scales, including bottom boundary layer dynamics, vertical turbulence, sand mixing, and wave breaking effects. Your primary task will be to develop a detailed research model for intra-wave cross-shore sand transport and morphodynamics, utilizing tools such as OpenFoam. This model will be validated with laboratory and field data, and subsequently inform the development of a practical numerical model (e.g., Delft3D) in collaboration with another SOURCE PhD project. The ultimate goal is to predict the lifetime, spreading, and impacts of sand nourishments on coastal state indicators.

Collaboration is a key aspect of this position, with regular consortium meetings facilitating knowledge exchange among partners, including close interaction with supervisors at UT and researchers at Deltares. You will present your research at national and international conferences, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and contribute to a PhD thesis. The position also involves contributing to the Civil Engineering teaching program and supervising MSc thesis projects, with didactical training provided.

The University of Twente offers a stimulating multidisciplinary environment, excellent mentorship, and a comprehensive educational and development program. The four-year fulltime PhD position includes full employee status, pension and health care benefits, a gross monthly salary ranging from €3059 to €3881, annual holiday allowance (8%), end-of-year bonus (8.3%), and a minimum of 41 holidays per year. Relocation or temporary housing allowance may be available. The campus provides extensive facilities for sports and other activities, supporting both professional and personal growth.

Applicants should hold an MSc in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, Applied Mathematics, Coastal Engineering, or a related discipline, with experience in numerical methods and CFD modeling (OpenFoam), strong programming skills (C++, Python, Matlab), and fluency in English (IELTS ≥ 6.5 or equivalent). Organizational skills, independence, and a problem-solving attitude are essential. Willingness to relocate to Enschede and contribute to teaching is required.

To apply, submit your application via the University of Twente careers portal by January 21st, 2026. Required documents include a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, English test result (if applicable), publication list, and contact details of two referees. Selection involves an interview and scientific presentation, with the first round scheduled for January 29th, 2026. The project is expected to start on May 1st, 2026, and students finishing their MSc thesis around this time are encouraged to apply.

The Faculty of Engineering Technology at UT is renowned for its research and education in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Industrial Design Engineering, and is closely connected with leading research institutes such as Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Center, and Digital Society Institute.