Recent floods in the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium showed the catastrophic nature that these extreme events can have on our built environment and infrastructure. Post-flood field surveys pointed out that in addition to fast-rising waters, the large amount of debris transported by the flow were responsible for severe damages that contributed to the structural failure of buildings (Figure 1). However, the influence of floating debris blockage during floods is poorly documented and understood, which motivates the present Interreg project within the EMR (Euregio Meuse-Rhine). This project is expected to:

• provide characteristics on floating debris and affected structures during the July 2021 flood;
• apply experimental modelling to document the behavior and impact of floating debris transported by floods;
• provide design recommendations for buildings and infrastructure in flood prone areas and operational procedures for assessing the impact of floating debris during floods.

To address this challenge, the Hydraulic Engineering department of TU Delft is looking for a motivated PostDoc for a period of 18 months. Selected candidate will design and perform physical hydraulic modelling in a large-scale outdoor facility, aiming at documenting the behavior of floating debris, their accumulation in front structures and their effect on the structural stability. Experiments will focus on the impacts in terms of (i) water levels, (ii) wave generation and (iii) building response. Candidate will also co-supervise MSc students and will work with leading academic and industrial partners, both in the Netherlands and abroad. As part of the Interreg EMR project, collaborations with RWTH Aachen and University of Liège will be encouraged. Start as soon as possible, project duration June 2022-December 2023.

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with the following qualifications:

• PhD in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent;
• Proven background in one or more of the following fields: Hydraulic Engineering, Hydraulic Structure, Environmental Fluid Mechanics, Fluid-Structure interaction, Structural dynamics.
• Research experience in experimental or field work is a plus
• Availability to start in September

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.

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