Intern / Graduate river morphology

Graduation internship investigating the morphological development of side channels in river floodplains. Combination between literature research, modelling and (field) data analysis.

What are you going to do?

The Dutch river systems of Rhine, Meuse and their distributaries are constantly subject to human intervention. Through numerous large-scale programs (e.g. Water Framework Directive, Room for the River, and many other programs) a lot of side channels have been constructed in the river flood plains. During the design phase, it is common to make (numerical) calculations for the effects of side channel on the bed level of the main channel. However, little quantitative studies are done to investigate the morphological development of the side channels themselves. Currently, this is mostly done through expert judgement. This poses a challenge for maintenance, as the functioning of the side channel is assessed based on the effects it has on the main channel. In the design of side channels, special attention must be given to the stability of the side channel profile, as well as the inflow of water and sediment to ensure morphological stability.

The aim of the study is to investigate (and predict) the development of side channels based on some physical design parameters to optimize maintenance strategies. Further content will be determined together with you. Examples of activities include:

• Literature research into the dominant factors driving morphological response of side channels;
• Data analysis using field measurements and hydraulic data to derive key parameters in side channel behaviour;
• Setting up a simple model to calibrate/validate side channel behaviour;
• Sensitivity analysis into erosion and/or sedimentation speeds of side channels;

What do we ask?

• In the final stage of their HBO or Masters programme with a relevant background (e.g. civil engineering, earth sciences, hydrology, water management or a similar study)
• With knowledge and intrinsic interests in river morhodynamics, GIS and/or river modelling;
• With strong analytic and communication skills;
• With strong Dutch/English speaking and writing skills;
• Who is willing to travel to our Amersfoort and Zwolle offices.
• Who is available for minimum 16 weeks (32-40 hours per week), starting preferably in October 2024

What do we offer?

Wherever you work, whatever you do, as an Arcadian you contribute to our mission: ‘Improving quality of life’. This mission is what connects and inspires us. We shape the future from different perspectives and build sustainable relationships. Together, we want to improve our world. With our five core values we build our Arcadian culture: People First, Integrity, Client Success, Collaboration and Sustainability. Characteristic for our culture are inclusiveness, diversity and corporate social responsibility. These subjects can be seen throughout our different activities

Arcadis offers you a whole range of interesting internships and graduation projects, which content will be determined together with you. At Arcadis, we value flexibility, which means you’re free to rearrange the workhours and work locations of your work activities as you see fit.

You will also get to know your colleagues through participation of activities like those provided by: The Young Part, our young adult association. Many interns/graduate students grow into a junior position and they also receive benefits like monthly compensation.