PhD in Civil Engineering: Digital Design and Delivery for Horizontal Infrastructure Systems The University of Texas at Austin in United States

PhD opportunity at The University of Texas at Austin in the Construction Engineering and Project Management (CEPM) program, within the Cockrell School of Engineering / Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering.

The project focuses on digital design and delivery for horizontal infrastructure systems, with research at the intersection of civil engineering, BIM, 4D/5D modeling, digital delivery workflows, data-driven coordination, AI, automation, and digital twins. The work is aimed at transforming how transportation and civil infrastructure projects are planned, coordinated, and executed in a digital-first environment.

The position is associated with Chris Rausch, Assistant Professor at UT Austin and director of the Digital Harvest Lab / ETHIC-related work. The post highlights a strong fit for candidates with hands-on BIM and modeling experience, infrastructure delivery experience, and interest in project-level coordination and owner-side perspectives.

Eligibility highlights: MASc in Civil Engineering required; publication record in peer-reviewed journals required; strong digital design skills required; Bentley software experience strongly desired; real infrastructure project experience highly desirable; Python/data analytics/simulation skills are a plus.

Application process: Applicants should email a CV, cover letter, and two writing samples to Chris Rausch. The flyer notes that peer-reviewed journal articles are preferred as writing samples and that the email subject should be “PhD – Digital Delivery for Horizontal Infrastructure.” Admissions information is available through the CAEE graduate admissions page.

Timing: The position is anticipated for Fall 2026 or January 2027, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until filled.