Over the past decades, the multi-beam echo-sounder (MBES) has become an important imaging tool in offshore survey operations. Its main application is to map the depths of the ocean floors from the two-way travel times. The potential of the MBES is much larger, however, as the levels of the MBES signals contain important information regarding the type of sediment at which the sound is scattered. The ANCE research group has developed a number of methods that use these so-called backscatter values for classifying the surficial sediments.

Within the project described here, the focus will be on mapping the occurrence of marine benthos such as shell beds, since this is becoming a required element in regulations aiming at sustainable use of our oceanic environment. Recent developments have equipped acoustic multi-beam echo-sounder (MBES) imaging systems with capabilities to take multi-spectral data, i.e., almost co-located acoustic measurements over a range of frequencies. As a postdoc (4 years) you will be responsible for designing and executing sea-going campaigns. In addition you will add to the development of data analysis techniques that combine all data streams from these multi-spectral data to realize acoustic classification techniques that map the occurrence of aggregations of specific marine benthos. Ensuring documentation of the developed algorithms in measurement protocols is also part of the job. The project will be carried out in cooperation with a number of companies and governmental organizations.

This postdoc position will be hosted in the Aircraft Noise and Climate Effects Section of the Department of Control and Operations of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering. The mission of the Department of Control and Operations is to improve the safety and efficiency of operations in aerospace and to reduce the impact on the environment. The department comprises three sections: Control and Simulation, Air Transport Operations and the Aircraft Noise and Climate Effects (ANCE) section.

ANCE focuses on modelling the effects of aviation on the environment in terms of noise and emissions. The noise research also deals with acoustic measurements. ANCE expertise in this area is directed towards the development of acoustic arrays for imaging aircraft noise using innovative beamforming techniques. In addition, as a spin-off, ANCE is also internationally recognised for its expertise in the field of underwater imaging, e.g. for offshore applications.

The candidate should have an MSc and PhD degree in an area relevant to the subject, e.g. (applied) physics, oceanography, earth sciences, marine biology, mechanical engineering and civil engineering. A combination of good mathematical/analytical skills and strong programming skills are required. Experience with seagoing campaigns is advantageous for this position. The candidate should have a very good command of the English language, in direct communication as well as writing skills.  

Fixed-term contract: 4 jaar.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

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Faculty Aerospace Engineering

The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is one of the world’s most highly ranked (and most comprehensive) research, education and innovation communities devoted entirely to aerospace engineering. More than 200 science staff, around 250 PhD candidates and over 2,700 BSc and MSc students apply aerospace engineering disciplines to address the global societal challenges that threaten us today, climate change without doubt being the most important. Our focal subjects: sustainable aerospace, big data and artificial intelligence, bio-inspired engineering and smart instruments and systems. Working at the faculty means working together. With partners in other faculties, knowledge institutes, governments and industry, both aerospace and non-aerospace. Working in field labs and innovation hubs on our university campus and beyond.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.