PhD Position in Coastal Engineering: Modeling Dune Resilience to Wave Overwash University of Louvain in Belgium

This PhD position in Coastal Engineering focuses on modeling dune resilience to wave overwash, a critical issue for coastal protection in the context of climate change. The opportunity is a joint doctoral program between KU Leuven and UCLouvain, two leading Belgian institutions. The research aims to advance numerical modeling approaches to improve the understanding and prediction of dune erosion and failure due to wave overwash, leveraging insights from fluvial hydraulics and new field experiments.

The project involves enhancing the XBeach coastal model by integrating advanced sediment transport and groundwater flow models. The successful candidate will collect and analyze data from field measurements and laboratory experiments, compare and evaluate existing numerical models (including XBeach and Watlab), develop and implement improved numerical models for dune erosion and overwash, and validate the enhanced model against real-world storm events to provide practical guidelines for coastal protection.

Applicants should have a Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Coastal Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Hydraulics, Geosciences, or a related field. Required skills include a strong background in hydrodynamics, sediment transport, numerical modeling, and programming (Python, C++, MATLAB, or Fortran). Experience with computational tools such as XBeach, SWASH, Watlab, or CFD modeling is an asset. Candidates should demonstrate excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and fluency in English. Dutch or French language skills are advantageous.

The position offers a 4-year fully funded PhD, access to cutting-edge numerical and experimental facilities, collaboration with international experts, and the chance to contribute to real-world coastal defense strategies. Interested candidates should send a CV and motivation letter to [email protected] or [email protected]. This is an excellent opportunity for those interested in coastal engineering, climate resilience, and advanced modeling techniques.