PhD in Dynamic System Identification and Digital Twins for Underground Infrastructure Monitoring Belgian Nuclear Research Centre in Belgium

This PhD opportunity at the Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN) focuses on developing advanced vibration-based methods for monitoring the structural health of deep underground tunnels, with the HADES Underground Research Laboratory serving as the primary case study. The project leverages dynamic system identification and digital twin technologies, which have proven effective in other large-scale civil structures such as bridges and wind turbines, to address the unique challenges of underground infrastructure.

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) in this context involves capturing variations in dynamic characteristics—such as eigenfrequencies, mode shapes, and modal damping ratios—to detect structural changes or damage. The research integrates in situ vibration measurements with sophisticated numerical simulations, accounting for complex soil–structure interactions that influence the behavior of deep underground tunnels. Unlike conventional inspection methods, vibration-based monitoring offers higher sensitivity and resolution, enabling early detection of distributed or deep-seated defects.

The project will develop coupled numerical models using finite element, boundary element, and perfectly matched layer formulations to simulate tunnel and soil dynamics. These models will be used to compute modal characteristics, dispersion, and attenuation curves of guided waves, and to analyze various environmental and damage scenarios through parametric and sensitivity studies. Experimental validation will be conducted at the HADES URL, including hammer impact tests and long-term ambient vibration monitoring to capture operational patterns and assess the impact of different damage scenarios.

The ultimate goal is to create a digital twin that forms the basis for a permanent SHM system for the HADES tunnel, with methodologies applicable to future underground infrastructures such as geological disposal facilities, the Einstein Telescope, and railway tunnels. The position offers a multidisciplinary research environment, access to innovative facilities, and opportunities for academic collaboration and internal training through the SCK CEN Academy.

Eligibility requires a Master of Science in engineering, specifically with a background in civil engineering, and excellent English proficiency. The PhD is expected to last four years, and candidates will benefit from SCK CEN’s supportive research community and training resources. Applications should be submitted online before the deadline, and further details are available on the SCK CEN website.