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Delft University of Technology

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PhD in Mathematical Modelling of Suspended Sediment Dynamics in Estuaries Delft University of Technology in Netherlands

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Environmental Science

Funding

Doctoral employment for 4 years in principle, split into an initial 1.5-year contract and a subsequent 2.5-year contract subject to a positive progress assessment. Salary is €3204–€4051 gross per month over the four years for a full-time 38-hour contract, plus 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus. TU Delft also offers a customizable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution.

Deadline

Oct 12, 2026

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Country

Netherlands

University

Delft University of Technology

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Keywords

Environmental Science
Mathematics
Mathematical Modeling
Fluid Mechanics
Civil Engineering
Nonlinear Dynamics
Earth Science
Geophysical Fluid Dynamics
Physics
Applied Mathematic

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About this position

TU Delft is advertising a PhD position on understanding and predicting high suspended sediment dynamics in estuaries. The project sits at the intersection of applied mathematics, geophysical flows, turbulence modelling, sediment transport, and environmental fluid mechanics.

The PhD researcher will develop and analyse new process-based mathematical models for hyperturbid estuaries, where very high suspended sediment concentrations, fluid mud layers, and strong flow-sediment feedbacks make prediction especially challenging. The work includes extending an existing 2DV estuarine model, designing novel turbulence closures, and using analytical methods, asymptotic analysis, and numerical simulations to study turbidity maxima, sediment trapping, and sediment retention.

In a second phase, the project will go beyond the 2DV framework by adding lateral variability to investigate lateral circulation, channel-shoal interactions, and cross-estuary sediment transport. Model results will be compared with observations from several European estuaries. The project is part of the iMose project and involves collaboration with other PhD candidates, postdoctoral researchers, and knowledge institutes such as Deltares.

Eligibility highlights: a Master's degree in Applied Mathematics, Applied Physics, or a related discipline; demonstrated experience with mathematical modelling of geophysical flows and turbulence; strong analytical and numerical skills; good communication skills in English; willingness to learn Dutch.

Funding and conditions: the position is a 4-year doctoral employment at TU Delft, with salary from €3204 to €4051 gross per month (full-time, 38 hours), plus holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus. TU Delft also mentions health insurance discounts and a work costs contribution.

Application deadline: 12 Oct 2026. Apply online through the TU Delft careers portal and upload your CV, motivation letter, transcripts, Master’s diploma/degree if available, and a Master’s thesis or comparable writing sample.

Funding details

Doctoral employment for 4 years in principle, split into an initial 1.5-year contract and a subsequent 2.5-year contract subject to a positive progress assessment. Salary is €3204–€4051 gross per month over the four years for a full-time 38-hour contract, plus 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus. TU Delft also offers a customizable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution.

What's required

A Master's degree in Applied Mathematics, Applied Physics, or a related discipline is required. Candidates should have demonstrated expertise in developing mathematical models for geophysical flows and turbulence using analytical and numerical techniques. Strong critical thinking and inquisitive mindset are expected, along with the ability to work independently and in a multidisciplinary team. Strong written and spoken English is required, and willingness to learn Dutch is expected.

How to apply

Apply online via the application button by 12 Oct 2026. Upload your CV, motivational letter, transcripts and Master's degree/diploma if available, and a copy of your Master's thesis or comparable writing sample. Do not send applications by email or post.

More information can be found here

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