PhD Candidate in Hydrodynamic Modelling of River-to-Fjord Plume Formation
The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) invites applications for a 3-year PhD position in Hydrodynamic Modelling of River-to-Fjord Plume Formation. This opportunity is part of the NTNU Ocean and Coast funded project "The PLUME," focusing on developing an integrated modelling platform for freshwater flow, river discharge, and plume dynamics from the Trondheim Fjord catchment to the fjord itself. The research is closely linked to the ERC Consolidator Grant PARTRES and the NFR large-scale project IMod, and will utilize the open-source hydrodynamics framework REEF3D, developed in-house at NTNU.
The successful candidate will join the Water and Water Systems research team and participate in the Marine Civil Engineering group. The project is interdisciplinary, connecting mathematics, civil engineering, biology, industrial ecology, and science and technology studies. The PhD position is central to work package WP1 Water Dynamics, collaborating with WP2 Nutrient Impacts and WP3 Societal Interactions. Supervisors include Professor Hans Bihs (main), Professor Knut Tore Alfredsen, Professor Mats Ehrnström, and Postdoctoral Researcher Adrian Kirkeby.
Research tasks involve building and applying advanced hydrodynamic models to resolve circulation, mixing, and exchange processes in fjord systems, including the effects of hydropower, regulation, and climate-driven changes in rainfall and seasonality. The candidate will contribute to the development of REEF3D::NHFLOW, producing detailed analyses of plume dynamics, spreading, dispersion, and vertical exchange. Macro precipitation–runoff models will be used to estimate time-resolved freshwater inflows from the entire fjord catchment.
Applicants must hold a relevant Master's degree in coastal engineering, hydraulic engineering, oceanography, or fluid mechanics, equivalent to a five-year Norwegian course with 120 credits at master's level. Master students may apply if the degree is completed before starting. A strong academic background is required, with an average grade of B or better on NTNU's grading scale or equivalent. Candidates with weaker grades may be considered if they can document particular suitability for PhD education. Admission to the faculty's Doctoral Programme is required. Essential skills include a strong understanding of coastal and fjord oceanography, geophysical fluid mechanics, and experience with numerical modelling or computational methods for simulating waves and/or currents. In-depth knowledge of stratified flow, plume formation, and tidal systems is required. Good oral and written presentation skills in English are mandatory. Preferred qualifications include experience with open-source hydrodynamic software and proficiency in Norwegian/Scandinavian.
The position offers a gross salary of NOK 550,800 per annum, with a 2% statutory contribution to the State Pension Fund deducted. The employment period is 3 years, and working capital is available for project implementation. NTNU provides access to employee benefits and favorable terms as a member of the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund. The university values diversity and aims to reflect the diversity in society, promoting equality and inclusion in its workforce.
To apply, submit your application and all required attachments electronically via Jobbnorge.no by the deadline of 24 May 2026. Required documents include transcripts and diplomas, CV, Master's thesis or draft, documentation of completed Master's degree, project outline, motivation letter, publications, certificates, and names/contact information of three referees. If invited to interview, bring certified copies of certificates and diplomas. For questions about the position, contact Professor Hans Bihs at [email protected].
NTNU is located in Trondheim, a modern European city known for its rich cultural scene, tech industry, and high quality of life. The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering conducts research and teaching in civil and transportation engineering, technical planning, structural engineering, water and wastewater engineering, and hydraulic engineering, preparing graduates for careers in both public and private sectors with a sustainability mindset.
