A significant portion of our built environment comprises masonry structures, which are ageing and vulnerable to earthquakes, vibrations as well as settlement-induced damage. Failure of such structures can often be sudden and brittle, leading to significant life and economic losses. Accurate analysis and assessment of these structures is imperative in order to gauge their vulnerability to collapse and facilitate timely interventions if needed. In practice, analysis of such structures is typically conducted using analytical (code-based) assessment methods. However, such methods can be oversimplified and conservative, and consequently lead to expensive and at times unnecessary intervention measures. Alternatively, such structures could be analysed using more detailed numerical modelling tools such as finite element models (FEM) or discrete element methods (DEM). However such tools tend to be computationally expensive and time-consuming, especially when trying to model collapse of larger-scale structural assemblies.

In this project, you will focus on bridging the gap between accuracy and efficiency through the development of novel, computationally-efficient strategies for the numerical modelling of masonry structures subjected to seismic, settlement and/or transient loading. Additionally, you will work on the development and implementation of new constitutive models to more realistically model quasi-brittle failure of such structures within the computational modelling framework. The robustness of the developed approaches will be tested through implementation in different computational modelling software (i.e. FEM vs DEM), as well as through application to the assessment of case studies within the Netherlands. The ultimate objective would be to create novel, practice-oriented modelling tools which can rapidly be utilised by engineers in the field for the seismic and stability assessment of masonry constructions.

• A Master’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field
• Good programming skills (Python and C++) or willingness to learn/improve them
• Independent and self-motivated, with the ability to work well with others
• Previous experience of numerical modelling of masonry or concrete structures is a plus
• Excellent communication skills (oral, written, presentation): if your mother language is not English and you do not hold a degree from an institution in which English is the language of instruction, you must submit proof of English proficiency from either TOEFL (minimum total score of 100) or IELTS (minimum total score of 7.0). Proof of English language proficiency certificates older than two years are not accepted.    

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers PhD-candidates a 4-year contract, with an official go/no go progress assessment after one year. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2434 per month in the first year to € 3111 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts 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.

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.

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

Faculty Civil Engineering & Geosciences

The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology, and delta technology. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource depletion, urbanisation and the availability of clean water, conducted  in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced that Open Science helps to achieve our goals and supports its scientists in integrating Open Science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences.