The post-doctoral researcher will advance the knowledge of cyclic soil-monopile interaction in offshore wind turbines using novel experimental techniques. Scientific challenges exist in the fundamental understanding and conceptualisation of cyclic pile behaviour, and its translation into simplified engineering models (e.g., model based on the well-known p-y approach).

The researcher will investigate the cyclic behaviour of small-scale monopile models in sandy soil, both dry and saturated, using two geotechnical centrifuge facilities at TU Delft and Deltares. The work will include design and implementation of advanced instrumentation for physical modelling studies. Test planning and data interpretation will be carried out in close collaboration with numerical modellers and industry experts.

This position is supported by MIDAS (Monopile Improved Design through Advanced cyclic Soil modelling), a research project funded by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland - RVO) and industry partners in the framework of the Dutch offshore wind program GROW (https://www.grow-offshorewind.nl/). TU Delft is the leading institution of a team including Deltares, Eneco, IHC, Innogy, Shell, Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, and Van Oord. 

A general summary of the MIDAS project is available under this link.

Candidates will meet as many of the following requirements as possible: 

• PhD degree in Civil/Geotechnical Engineering or related areas; 
• proven experience in geotechnical centrifuge testing, preferably including soil-structure interaction problems and cyclic loading;
• excellent knowledge of soil mechanics and foundation engineering. Acquaintance with offshore wind geotechnics is also appreciated (but not mandatory);
• experience in designing/implementing instrumentation, control, and data acquisition systems/interfaces for physical modelling studies;
• interest in contributing to the global success of the project, liaising with other team members responsible for different segments of the research; 
• appreciation of team work, good social skills, and ability to function in international circles involving experts from academia and industry;
• high proficiency in spoken/written English, and proven experience in preparing technical publications and project reports;
• interest in contributing to educational activities, including occasional teaching, student tutoring and co-supervision of BSc/MSc graduation projects.

Fixed-term contract: 24 months (start on 1-4-2020).

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. Coming to Delft Service organizes diverse events for new international employees and their accompanying partners, like Partner Career Workshops and Dutch Culture Workshops. Located on campus are the International Children’s Centre and an international primary school which are subject to availability as well as several bilingual schools in the nearby surrounding. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

Technische Universiteit Delft

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

Faculty Civil Engineering and Geosciences

The Department of Geoscience and Engineering (www.tudelft.nl/ceg/gse) encompasses 5 sections: Applied Geology, Applied Geophysics and Petrophysics, Geo-Engineering, Resource Engineering, and Petroleum Engineering. Within the department there is considerable scope and encouragement for inter-disciplinary research. 

The Section of Geo-Engineering has 9 full-time and 5 part-time academic staff, and 25 PhD and post-doctoral researchers. Areas of expertise include soil mechanics, dykes and embankments, foundation engineering, underground space technology, engineering geology, and geo-environmental engineering. 

The department is part of the Faculty Civil Engineering and Geosciences (www.tudelft.nl/ceg). The Faculty Civil Engineering and Geosciences 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. The research covers global social issues and is closely connected to education as well as the work of a wide range of knowledge institutions. CEG is convinced that Open Science helps to realise these 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.