Engineering Doctorate (EngD) in Digital Dikes: Risk Assessment of Backward Erosion Piping

The University of Twente is offering a prestigious Engineering Doctorate (EngD) position in the Digital Dikes project, focusing on the risk assessment of Backward Erosion Piping (BEP) in dikes. This two-year, full-time EngD opportunity is based in the Faculty of Engineering Technology and is part of a large international consortium including Deltares, University of Bologna, Rijkswaterstaat, and the Dutch Flood Protection Programme. The project aims to develop advanced digital models for dike stability and erosion, integrating multiscale simulations, data assimilation from laboratory and field experiments, and probabilistic risk predictions. The research will involve gathering and processing validation needs for numerical models, executing and analyzing laboratory tests with Deltares and Water Authority Aa & Maas, and co-designing and implementing field-scale experiments in Boretto, Italy. The candidate will collaborate with international researchers to validate digital models and ensure datasets follow FAIR principles for accessibility. The project offers hands-on experience in real-world experiments and modeling, as well as opportunities for extended internships at Deltares and the University of Bologna. Applicants should have a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related discipline, experience in physical testing and data analysis, and strong programming skills (preferably in Python). The role requires a creative, proactive, and analytical approach to research, excellent communication skills, and the ability to collaborate internationally. Candidates must be available for short-term international travel and have an excellent command of English. Applications from diverse backgrounds are encouraged. The EngD position offers a gross monthly salary of €3,029, with additional benefits including an 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, pension scheme, 29 holidays per year, and free access to sports facilities. The University of Twente provides a supportive, international, and multidisciplinary research environment, with a green campus and a family-friendly policy. The project is supervised by Prof. Vanessa Magnanimo (University of Twente), Dr. Koos V. (Deltares), and Prof. L. Tonni and M. Marchi (University of Bologna). To apply, candidates should submit a motivation letter, CV, transcripts (BSc & MSc), references (at least two, preferably academic/industrial), and any available theses or reports via the University of Twente portal before 15 March 2026. Screening is part of the selection procedure. The intended starting date is as soon as possible, and no later than 1 September 2026. For more information, contact Prof. Vanessa Magnanimo at [email protected]. This is an excellent opportunity for motivated researchers interested in civil engineering, risk assessment, and digital modeling to contribute to a project with significant societal impact.