Most historical structures in the western part of the Netherlands are founded on timber piles. With an age of up to 500 years, an assessment of their structural   performance is increasingly becoming important. Both mechanical and material degradation, as well is increasing loads on the piles may be the reason for such an assessment. Failures of quay walls have led to the conclusion that a better understanding of the long-term load carrying capacity of timber piles is necessary. In this Post-doc project, an integral calculation model for the calculation of the residual load-carrying capacity of timber piles will be developed, in close cooperation with foundation engineering experts and the city of Amsterdam. A combination of theoretical modelling and reliability analysis on both new and old piles should lead to a comprehensive description of the service life of wooden foundations. The ultimate goal of the project is the integration of a timber reliability model with existing foundation calculation methods which can be used by practicing engineers.

Aspects that need to be considered are:

• Influences of long term mechanical loads and biological degradation mechanism and their interaction using a variety of assessment methods (mechanical testing, microscopy, CT-Scanning, NIR).
• Reliability and Service life modelling concepts (Bayesian statistics, Monte-Carlo simulations) preferably with respect to wood
• Interaction with soil mechanics (creep, skin friction)

The candidate has a PhD with a background in structural engineering, material science or reliability&risk. Programming skills (pref. Python, MathLab) and a hands-on mentality with regard to experimental work and foundation test sites are required. The working language is English. Because of the close cooperation with the city of Amsterdam and other communities, the candidate should be prepared to acquire basic knowledge of the Dutch language. Only candidates are considered who has already finalized their PhD.

Fixed-term contract: 2 years.

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.

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

Faculty Civil Engineering and 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.

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