Engineering Doctorate in Digital Dikes: multiscale framework risk assessment of Backward

Title

Engineering Doctorate in Digital Dikes: A multiscale framework for risk assessment of Backward Erosion Piping

Looking for a job that matters? Join the university of technology that puts people first – and shape new opportunities both for yourself and for others.

• Gather and process the needs for validation of numerical models;
• Assist in executing and analyzing laboratory tests on heave screens in collaboration with Deltares and the Water Authority Aa & Maas;
• (Co-)design a field‑scale test at the test site in Boretto (Italy) in cooperation with University of Bologna;
• Assist in the execution of the field tests in Boretto and design a suitable framework for data analysis of the experimental results;
• Collaborate with other researchers in the Digital Dikes for validation of numerical models;
• Ensure that the validation dataset is stored following the FAIR principle and accessible in a user‑friendly manner.

• A Master’s degree in Civil Engineering or in a related discipline;
• Demonstrated experience in physical tests and data analysis;
• Excellent programming skills (e.g. in Python);
• A critical, creative and pro‑active approach to research and design, with good problem‑solving skills;
• Proven experience with preparing communications for scientific and technical meetings with academic and industrial project partners;
• Ability to work in a team and collaborate intensively with industrial and academic parties in regular meetings and work visits;
• Strong hands‑on and practical attitude;
• Excellent command of English (oral and written);
• Availability for occasional short‑term international travel.

This position and the EngD track are for 2 years. Extended internships are planned at Deltares and at University of Bologna (IT). In addition to their individual scientific projects, all fellows will benefit from further continuing education, which includes secondments and short visits to partners in the Digital Dikes network, a wide range of training activities, workshops, dedicated sessions at international meetings, to foster scientific and transferable skills for the Jobs of Tomorrow.

• A full‑time, 2‑year EngD position;
• Gross monthly salary of €3,029
  ;
• Excellent benefits including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, an end‑of‑year bonus of 8.3%, and a solid pension scheme;
• 29 holidays per year in case of full‑time employment;
• A green campus with free access to sports facilities and an international scientific community;
• A family‑friendly institution that offers parental leave (both paid and unpaid);
• A full employee status at the University of Twente (UT), including pension, healthcare benefits, and favourable secondary conditions as outlined in the CAO‑NU collective labour agreement for Dutch universities.

For applications, please submit your documents using the ‘Apply now’ button below, including your CV, motivation letter, bachelor and master transcripts, contact details of at least two references who worked closely with you, theses or reports (if available).

Master students who will graduate in the next coming months are welcome to apply. In that case, please provide an overview of the transcripts that are already available.

The deadline for application is 15 March 2026
. The intended starting date is as soon as possible and no later than 1 September 2026
.

Screening is part of the procedure.

We welcome applications from candidates with diverse gender, backgrounds and perspectives.

The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. We enable society and industry to innovate and create value using efficient, solid and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people‑first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading centre for smart production, processes and devices in five domains:
Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to about 2,900 Bachelor’s and Master’s students, 550 employees and 150 PhD candidates. Our educational and research programmes are closely connected with UT research institutes, Mesa+ Institute, Tech Med Center and Digital Society Institute.

Title:

Engineering Doctorate in Digital Dikes: A multiscale framework for risk assessment of Backward Erosion Piping

Looking for a job that matters? Join the university of technology that puts people first – and shape new opportunities both for yourself and for others.