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Delft University of Technology

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PhD Position in Physical Modelling of Backward Erosion Piping Delft University of Technology in Netherlands

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Environmental Science

Funding

PhD employment for 4 years in principle, with salary increasing from €3059 to €3881 gross per month for a full-time 38-hour contract, plus 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.

Deadline

Nov 29, 2026

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Country

Netherlands

University

Delft University of Technology

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Keywords

Environmental Science
Civil Engineering
Geotechnical Engineering
Earth Science
Hydraulic Engineering
Spatial Statistics
Experimental Geology
Soil Erosion
Granular Material

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About this position

This PhD project investigates backward erosion piping (BEP), a process that can undermine dikes when seepage flows erode sand beneath them. The research is part of the NWO-funded Digital Dikes consortium and is designed to improve how BEP progression and severity are understood and predicted.

You will work on experimental and physical modelling of BEP, developing new test setups and integrating novel measurement techniques to study mechanisms that remain poorly understood. A key focus is the 3D meandering behaviour of pipe networks, including grain-scale interactions and the effect of a non-uniform blanket layer during the propagation stage. You will also analyse 3D BEP patterns in a small-scale setup using image analysis and spatial statistics.

The position is based in the Geoscience and Engineering department within TU Delft’s Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences. The project is carried out jointly by TU Delft and Deltares and sits within a wider consortium led by the University of Twente, bringing together several universities and research partners. The research environment is strongly collaborative and international, with opportunities for secondments, short visits, and interaction with partner organisations across the Digital Dikes network.

The work aims to generate new insight into pipe progression and support the development of more reliable predictive models for dike safety and flood protection.

Funding details

PhD employment for 4 years in principle, with salary increasing from €3059 to €3881 gross per month for a full-time 38-hour contract, plus 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.

What's required

A Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Hydraulic Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Soil Mechanics or a closely related field is required. The post seeks a highly motivated candidate with a strong interest in experimental research and physical modelling, programming skills such as Python and MATLAB for image analysis and data processing, affinity with granular materials, fluid-soil interaction or soil erosion processes, and preferably experience with laboratory work, imaging techniques or particle-scale measurements. Applicants should have strong scientific writing skills, good communication skills for multidisciplinary teamwork, and proficiency in English (spoken and written).

How to apply

Apply online via the application button by 29 November 2026. Upload a motivation letter, CV, and academic transcripts (BSc and MSc). Address the application to Dr. M. Cabrera and do not submit by email or post.

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