The University of Liège (ULiège), located in the vibrant city of Liège, Belgium, is offering a fully funded postdoctoral position focused on novel approaches for modelling flood risk and cascading effects. ULiège is a leading institution with a strong commitment to open, ethical, and transdisciplinary science, and provides a dynamic, multicultural environment for researchers from around the world.

This position is hosted within the HECE group, part of the Research Unit Urban & Environmental Engineering, which specializes in hydrology, flood risk management, hydraulic engineering, and fluvial hydrodynamics. The group integrates computational modelling and laboratory experiments, and has developed the WOLF modelling system, featuring rainfall-runoff models and advanced 1D/2D flow and transport models with GPU acceleration and GIS-type interfaces. The group also operates a unique experimental facility equipped with state-of-the-art measurement techniques.

The research project centers on two main topics: (1) modelling the hydrodynamic effects of bridge clogging by floating debris, including the design of novel laboratory experiments, development and testing of process-based models, and application to real-world case studies; and (2) stress testing temporary flood storage systems, involving stakeholder surveys, end-to-end modelling from rainfall to flood damage and risk, residual risk analysis, and procedures for optimal positioning of storage systems using multi-criteria analysis.

Main responsibilities include conducting research on flood risk and cascading effects, writing scientific publications and reports, participating in scientific events, contributing to teaching, supervising master projects and internships, co-supervising PhD students, assisting with organizational tasks, and contributing to applied engineering projects and proposal writing.

Applicants must have completed their PhD within the last 6 years in civil engineering, environmental engineering, geosciences, environmental physics, applied physics, data sciences, or a related field. Proficiency in computer programming (e.g., Python) and fluency in English are required; basic French is an asset but not mandatory.

The position is fully funded for two years, with an annual contract renewal after a trial period of three to six months. The basic gross monthly salary is approximately 5,500 EUR, with additional benefits such as public transportation reimbursement and access to training opportunities. ULiège offers a supportive and inclusive research environment, complying with the European HR Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) and providing assistance to incoming researchers and their families.

Applications are accepted via the online form at this link. Selection begins September 30th, 2025, and the position will remain open until filled. Informal inquiries can be directed to Prof. Benjamin Dewals at [email protected]. For more information about support for foreign researchers, visit ULiège EURAXESS or contact [email protected].