Interested in connecting complex physics to real world flood safety? Join this PhD on piping and internal erosion.
Internal erosion and piping are among the main failure mechanisms of clay–sand layered dikes and remain an important topic in flood risk management. Numerical models are used to support the prediction of piping initiation and progression, as well as the assessment and design of flood defence systems.
This PhD project centres on the development of continuum based two phase models to describe particle transport and fluid–soil interaction in dikes. The research builds on an Eulerian two phase approach, which has been applied in the modelling of backward erosion piping. Within this framework, there is room to further develop and adapt modelling strategies. Possible directions include the use of constitutive relations for particle–particle and particle–fluid interactions based on Direct Numerical Simulations with Discrete Element Modelling (DNS–DEM) simulation data generated within the project.
The work includes the capturing the multi-scale nature of the problem, while retaining the computational efficiency. Adaptive mesh strategies may be explored, with fine resolution in regions where pipe formation is expected and coarser resolution in surrounding zones governed by Darcy flow. Based on soil–fluid interface modelling and expected pipe dimensions, the mesh resolution can be assessed and refined during the project. In addition, the project may include the development and/or refinement of a reduced one dimensional two phase pipe element model derived from the three dimensional formulation, enabling coupling with Random Finite Element Method (RFEM) studies in collaboration with other researchers involved in the project.
The PhD position is embedded in a multidisciplinary research team at TU Delft, at the intersection of geotechnical engineering, computational mechanics, and fluid dynamics. Supervision and guidance are provided, while allowing scope for self-directed contributions to the research. The project includes opportunities for collaboration, conference participation, and publication in key international journals.
We are looking for a highly motivated and skilled candidate who is enthusiastic about the translation of fundamental flow and erosion physics to practically relevant scales through two-phase flow modelling.The successful candidate should:
- Have an MSc degree in a relevant field (Civil Engineering, Geotechical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, Ocean Engineering).
- Have demonstrated experience in fluid mechanics, computational fluid dynamics and scientific programming. Familiarity with Euler–Euler approaches or the development of mathematical flow models is considered an advantage.
- Have the ability to work in a multidisciplinary consortium, taking initiatives and being results-oriented.
- Be well organized and have excellent time management skills.
- Have excellent communication skills and command of English.
- Have affinity with teaching and guiding MSc students.
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 as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.
Challenge. Change. Impact!
From chip to ship. From machine to human being. From idea to solution. Driven by a deep-rooted desire to understand our environment and discover its underlying mechanisms, research and education at the ME faculty focusses on fundamental understanding, design, production including application and product improvement, materials, processes and (mechanical) systems.
ME is a dynamic and innovative faculty with high-tech lab facilities and international reach. It’s a large faculty but also versatile, so we can often make unique connections by combining different disciplines. This is reflected in ME’s outstanding, state-of-the-art education, which trains students to become responsible and socially engaged engineers and scientists. We translate our knowledge and insights into solutions to societal issues, contributing to a sustainable society and to the development of prosperity and well-being. That is what unites us in pioneering research, inspiring education and (inter)national cooperation.
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Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.
Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3059 - €3881 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
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 your 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.
Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.
For information about this vacancy, you can contact Dr. G. Keetels [email protected].
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 15 June 2026 upload the following documents:
- A cover letter stating your motivation
- Your curriculum vitae
- A summary of your master thesis
- List of courses and grades at Master and Bachelor level (in English).
You can address your application to Dr. G. Keetels.
Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.
Please note:
- You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
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