The postdoc position is opened for research in the development of a probabilistic (design) method for the sizing of rock on groynes in tidal rivers/estuaries.  The focus will be on hydraulic loads from ship waves, in particular the stern wave of the long-period primary wave system for which existing design guidance is not applicable. A probabilistic method will be developed based on previous research, which covers physical processes, small scale experiments and field observations. The method is envisaged to guide designers and managing authorities in assessing the likelihood and degree of damage to rock groynes as well as the formulation of (probabilistic) design criteria. The results should be scientifically sound and be applicable for practicing engineers.
In order to assess failure probabilities of the groyne systems, uncertainties and nature of strength and loads (water level, wave height, etc.) need to be accurately modelled. Joint distributions for strength and load variables will be investigated together with physical modelling results for determining failure modes and design criteria. Additionally, (multivariate) extreme value analysis is expected to be applied in this challenging and exciting research project. It is also possible to fullfill the position in a PhD trajectory.
For this position, you will collaborate with the German Federal Waterways Engineering and Research Institute (BAW) and possibly other (inter)national partners. A fair amount of collaboration with other departments of the TU Delft is foreseen. Finally the successful candidate will also undertake activities in education within the section of Hydraulic Engineering of the faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences of the TU Delft.

• PhD degree on civil engineering, applied mathematics, applied physics, mathematics, or similar. Applications from outstanding MSc graduates will also be considered for a PhD position.
• Affinity for probabilistic modelling and simulation and applications to (hydraulic) infrastructure.
• Programming skills (Python, R, Matlab) or willingness to improve these skills.
• Excellent command of the English language. A working knowledge of German language is valued.
• Outstanding analytical skills.
• Ability to cooperate in a multi-disciplinary and culturally diverse team.

Fixed-term contract: 3 years for postdoc, 4 years for PhD.

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. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. 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 position is within the Faculty of Civil Engineering and GeoSciences. Please check https://www.tudelft.nl/en/ceg/.

The Department of Hydraulic Engineering is mainly concerned with major surface waters such as rivers, estuaries and seas. The focus is on understanding, designing and implementing human interventions in the natural environment for the discharge of water, for protection against water, for transport over water and for buiding in water.
Within the department, the Offshore Engineering section focuses on the mechanics of offshore structures, including their interaction with wind, currents, waves and sea ice. The section actively cooperates with all types of energy companies.