The PhD candidate will produce estimates for viscosity of the Earth’s mantle, which is the parameter that controls deformation. Such estimates are currently produced from seismic measurements. The aim of this project is to add gravity data and include variable mantle composition. The candidate will use existing software for integrated lithospheric modelling based on Fortran. The software will be extended to allow constraints from global gravity field models and isostasy in the lithosphere. The forward model is the basis for inversion techniques to obtain the mantle viscosity that best fits to constraints. Case studies are the North American craton and the Barents Sea region.

The maps of mantle viscosity are an important product for geodynamic modelling studies. The estimates of mantle viscosity will be implemented in a numerical model for Glacial Isostatic Adjustment. This model is based on the combination of a commercial finite-element software and a Python program, which is recently developed in the group. Measurements of the GIA process are available in the form of geologic sea level data, uplift and gravity rates. With an accurate GIA model predictions of GIA induced mass change and sea level change are produced.

The project focuses on petrological and geodynamic modelling and application of constraints from available data. The candidate will benefit from cooperation with the project ‘3D Earth’ funded by the European Space Agency (ESA). Cooperation and work visits are foreseen to the Dublin Institute of Advanced Studies

Applicants are expected to have an MSc degree (or the equivalent) in one of the following areas: Earth science, planetary science, physics, engineering, or a closely related area. A background in numerical modelling is desirable. Applicants must be proficient in spoken and written English.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

The successful candidate will be granted a temporary employment contract with the university for a period of 4 years (48 months), with an evaluation at the end of the first year. Within the contract period, the candidate is expected to produce a dissertation (PhD thesis) of sufficient quality for him/her to be awarded a PhD.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. Please visit www.tudelft.nl/phd for more information.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

https://www.tudelft.nl

Faculty Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace Engineering

The faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is one of the world's largest faculties devoted entirely to aerospace engineering. In the Netherlands it is the only research and education institute directly related to the aerospace engineering sector. It covers the whole spectrum of aerospace engineering subjects. In aeronautics, the faculty covers subjects ranging from aerodynamics and flight propulsion to structures and materials and from control and simulation to air transport and operations. In astronautics, topics include astrodynamics, space missions and space systems engineering. The faculty has around 2,700 BSc and MSc students, 225 PhD candidates and 27 professors supported by scientific staff.
The faculty's mission is to be the best Aerospace Engineering faculty in the world, inspiring and educating students through modern education techniques and enabling staff to perform ambitious research of the highest quality for the future of aerospace. The working atmosphere at the faculty is friendly, open-minded and dedicated.

Section AS
The Astrodynamics and Space Missions (A&S) section constains a research group dedicated to Earth and planetary science. For more information, please visit www.as.lr.tudelft.nl.

https://www.tudelft.nl/en/ae/