Engineering Doctorate in Digital Dikes: A multiscale framework for risk assessment of Backward Erosion Piping

The Netherlands relies heavily on its dikes. However, current models do not show exactly how dikes collapse when seepage flows erode sand underneath a dike (Backward Erosion Piping). The Digital Dikes project is changing that. The consortium aims to develop advanced digital models with varying degrees of detail, integrated into a flexible open-source tool, assimilating monitoring data to give probabilistic predictions. This framework can assess the probability (and severity) of pipe progression as a function of dike geometry, variability of subsurface properties and hydraulic loads. The novel technology will be tested through real-world case studies, co-designed with industry, government, and international users. This makes accurate risk assessment and targeted dike reinforcement possible.

Digital Dikes is a prestigious and ambitious project funded by NWO. Twente University is leading this projects with consortium partners University of Utrecht, Eindhoven University, University of Bologna and Deltares. The partners are supported by a large group of users, government (e.g. Water Authorities, Rijkswaterstaat, STOWA, Dutch Flood Protection Programme) and international organisations.

For this unique project we are seeking a motivated and talented Engineering Doctorate. In your role you will:

1. Gather and process the needs for validation of numerical models;
2. Assist in executing and analysis of laboratory tests on heave screens in collaboration with Deltares and the Water Authority Aa & Maas;
3. (Co-)design a field scale test at the test site in Boretto (Italy) in cooperation with University of Bologna;
4. Assist in the execution of the field tests in Boretto and design a suitable framework for data analysis of the experimental results;
5. Collaborate with follow researchers in the Digital Dikes for validation of numerical models;
6. Ensure that the validation dataset is stored following the FAIR principle and accessible in a user-friendly manner

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Job requirements++

We are looking for an enthusiastic and inquisitive researcher who enjoys working in an international and multidisciplinary environment. You have:

• A Master’s degree in Civil Engineering or in a related discipline;
• Demonstrated experience in physical tests and data analysis.
• Excellent programming skills (e.g. in Python);
• A critical, creative and pro-active approach to research and design, with good problem-solving skills;
• Proven experience with preparing communications for scientific and technical meetings with academic and industrial project partners;
• Ability to work in a team and collaborate intensively with industrial and academic parties in regular meetings and work visits;
• Strong hands-on and practical attitude;
• Excellent command of English (oral and written);
• Availability for occasional short-term international travel.

We welcome applications from candidates with diverse gender, backgrounds and perspectives.

This position and the EngD track are for 2 years. Extended internships are planned at Deltares and at University of Bologna (IT). In addition to their individual scientific projects, all fellows will benefit from further continuing education, which includes secondments and short visits to partners in the Digital Dikes network, a wide range of training activities, workshops, dedicated sessions at international meetings, to foster scientific and transferable skills for the Jobs of Tomorrow.

Our offer includes:

• A full-time, 2-year EngD position;
• Gross monthly salary of €3,029;
• Excellent benefits including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%, and a solid pension scheme;
• 29 holidays per year in case of full-time employment;
• A green campus with free access to sports facilities and an international scientific community;
• A family-friendly institution that offers parental leave (both paid and unpaid);
• A full employee status at the University of Twente (UT), including pension, healthcare benefits, and favourable secondary conditions as outlined in the CAO-NU collective labour agreement for Dutch universities.

The EngD project will be conducted under the supervision of Prof. V. Magnanimo at University of Twente, Dr. V. Van Beek at Deltares and Prof. L. Tonni and M. Marchi at University of Bologna.

For applications, please submit your documents using the ‘Apply now’ button below, including your CV, motivation letter, bachelor and master transcripts, contact details of at least two references who worked closely with you, theses or reports (if available).

Master students who will graduate in the next coming months are welcome to apply. In that case, please provide an overview of the transcripts that are already available.

The deadline for application is 15 March 2026.
The intended starting date is as soon as possible and no later than 1 September 2026.

Screening is part of the procedure.