PhD Position in Environmental, Marine and Coastal Technology Tallinn University of Technology in Estonia

The Department of Cybernetics at the School of Science, Tallinn University of Technology, invites applications for a 4-year fully funded PhD position in Environmental, Marine and Coastal Technology. The research will be conducted within the Laboratory of Wave Engineering, a leading group in the Baltic States focused on wave dynamics, coastal engineering, and the application of mathematical methods to marine environments. The successful candidate will join an international team working at the forefront of coastal research, with direct impact on sustainable coastal management and engineering design.

The proposed PhD thesis, “Alongshore sediment transport patterns under different water levels on the eastern Baltic Sea coast,” addresses a critical gap in understanding how synchronisation between storm waves and elevated water levels affects beach stability. The project will systematically analyse the interplay of water levels and wave directions, quantifying sediment transport patterns and mapping areas of erosion and accumulation. This research is highly relevant to climate change impacts, as recent findings indicate shifts in wind and wave regimes that may alter coastal stability and increase flood risks.

Responsibilities include collecting and processing wave, sea-level, and field data; developing and improving sediment transport models; conducting fieldwork and statistical analyses; interpreting results; and contributing to publications and research meetings. The position offers hands-on training in science communication and diplomacy, as well as opportunities for conference attendance and research stays at leading institutions.

Applicants should hold a master’s degree in physical, mathematical, or Earth sciences (preferably physical oceanography, coastal engineering, or ocean engineering) and possess strong skills in mathematics, statistics, and scientific software (Matlab, Mathematica, Python, R). Excellent English proficiency, analytical and writing skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are essential. Experience with GIS software, statistics, and science popularisation is beneficial.

The Wave Engineering Laboratory is renowned for its research on nonlinear wave phenomena, coastal hazards, and the application of advanced modeling techniques, including machine learning and AI. The team’s work supports science-based decision-making for coastal infrastructure and management, with a strong emphasis on translating fundamental research into practical solutions.

Funding includes a stipend for the full duration of the PhD, with additional support for travel and networking. The application deadline is January 31, 2026. For application instructions, visit the TalTech PhD admission page and send required documents (CV, motivation letter, degree certificates, passport copy) to Prof Dr Tarmo Soomere. For further information, contact the supervisors or visit the Wave Engineering Laboratory website.