PhD Position on Finite Element Modelling of Backward Erosion Piping in Spatially Variable Soils

Job description

The Netherlands relies heavily on its dikes. However, current models do not fully explain how dikes collapse when seepage flows erode sand underneath a dike, known as Backward Erosion Piping. This PhD position is part of the Digital Dikes project, a prestigious and ambitious project funded by the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO), which aims to develop advanced digital models with varying degrees of detail, integrated into a flexible open-source tool and assimilating monitoring data to provide 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, enabling accurate risk assessment and targeted dike reinforcement.

Digital Dikes involves partners from the University of Twente (leading institution), the University of Utrecht, Eindhoven University of Technology, the University of Bologna, Deltares, and Delft University of Technology (TU Delft). The partners are supported by a large group of stakeholders, including water authorities, Rijkswaterstaat, STOWA, the Dutch Flood Protection Programme, and international organisations.

This PhD position uses the Random Finite Element Method (RFEM) to investigate the role of soil spatial variability on the initiation and progression of backward erosion piping under dikes. RFEM links the finite element method for modelling geotechnical structure response with stochastic models of ground spatial variability, within a Monte Carlo framework to account for uncertainty in soil parameter values.

The research includes the following components:

• the development and validation of a 3D RFEM tool, which may be constrained and updated by measurement and monitoring data, for modelling groundwater flow and piping initiation and progression in heterogeneous soils;
• the application of the developed tool to investigate the influence of the spatial variability of geological layering and spatial variability within layers on piping initiation, progression, and extent;
• the utilisation of RFEM results to develop, train, and test a reliability-based surrogate model for practical risk assessments;
• an investigation of design protocols for monitoring and measurement systems to reduce uncertainty and improve dike safety.

The project combines fundamental research with applied relevance. It will be carried out in the Geo-Engineering section of Delft University of Technology and involves collaboration with other partners within the Digital Dikes consortium. The project will benefit from a wide range of training activities, workshops, and dedicated sessions at international meetings to foster scientific and transferable skills.

Job requirements

We are looking for a candidate with:

• an MSc degree in Civil Engineering, Geosciences, or a related field;
• a strong background in numerical modelling;
• a genuine interest and aptitude for the development, computer implementation, and application of numerical and probabilistic-based algorithms;
• knowledge of machine learning techniques and soil mechanics, which would be an advantage;
• excellent computer programming skills;
• proficiency in verbal and written English;
• experience with teamwork.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Delft University of Technology is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, its engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

Faculty of 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. Its research feeds into educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource availability, urbanisation, and clean water. Research projects are conducted in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG supports its scientists in integrating open science in their research practice.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, structured as two employment contracts. An initial 1.5-year contract with an official go/no-go progress assessment within 15 months is followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years, assuming satisfactory progress and performance requirements are met.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff, and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing transferable, discipline-related, and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.