PhD Position in Real-Time Multimodal Construction Transport Optimization & AI-Driven Decision Support (MULTIPLIER Project) University of Twente in Netherlands

The University of Twente invites applications for a PhD position in Real-Time Multimodal Construction Transport Optimization & AI-Driven Decision Support as part of the MULTIPLIER Project. This opportunity is based within the Industrial Engineering and Management Sciences (IEMS) section of the High-tech Business & Entrepreneurship (HBE) department, in collaboration with the Pervasive Systems Research Group at the EEMCS Faculty. The MULTIPLIER project is a large, cross-disciplinary initiative focused on scaling prefabricated modular housing in the Netherlands while drastically reducing logistics-related emissions. The project aims to deliver up to 50,000 prefab houses per year, leveraging modular construction to create predictable transport flows and utilizing inland waterway transport (IWT) for scalable, low-emission logistics.

The PhD research will develop real-time optimization and hybrid AI models for end-to-end multimodal transport planning under uncertainty. Key tasks include designing synchronization, consolidation, and matchmaking algorithms to align factory production schedules with IWT capacity, terminal availability, and urban delivery windows. The project involves modelling multi-level planning decisions, from early feasibility assessment to tactical release planning and real-time operational dispatching, while incorporating urban and site-specific constraints such as quay availability, zero-emission zones, access windows, and reverse logistics flows. The candidate will build explainable, scenario-based decision support systems to help planners determine when and how IWT can be applied effectively.

As part of a large multi-actor consortium—including universities, housing factories, IT solution providers, logistics and terminal partners, and municipalities—the PhD candidate will contribute to Living Lab pilots demonstrating real-world applicability and scalable logistics impact. The main deliverables are expected before 31 December 2028, with time allocated afterwards for thesis writing and finalization.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Transport Engineering, or a related field. Required skills include optimization (integer programming, vehicle routing, packing problems, heuristics), simulation, data-driven modelling, decision support systems, and AI (reinforcement learning, machine learning). Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders are essential. Excellent English proficiency is required; Dutch language skills are advantageous. Experience in transport and logistics planning, multimodal networks, construction logistics, or decision support systems is preferred. Non-Dutch applicants without prior education in English must provide proof of English proficiency (IELTS ≥ 6.5, TOEFL iBT ≥ 90, or Cambridge CAE-C/CPE).

The position offers a full-time, 4-year contract with a gross monthly salary starting at €3,059 and rising to €3,881, plus holiday and end-of-year bonuses, pension scheme, 29 holidays per year, and full employee status with healthcare and other benefits. The University of Twente provides a stimulating research environment, excellent facilities, a personal development program within the Twente Graduate School, and a green campus with free sports facilities. The HBE department fosters an inclusive, collaborative culture and supports flexible working arrangements to promote work-life balance.

Applications must be submitted online by 25 January 2026. Required documents include a cover/motivation letter, CV, list of publications and references (if applicable), course list with grades, and proof of English proficiency. For further information, contact Dr. Engin Topan ([email protected]) or Dr. Rob Bemthuis ([email protected]).

Join a forward-thinking technical university committed to positive social impact, responsible innovation, and bridging technology with societal needs. Become part of a vibrant, international scientific community and contribute to sustainable solutions in construction logistics and transport optimization.