The PhD candidate will do research into the characteristics of fluid mud in order to identify the physical background of the observed and not yet clear and clarified differences and model the relevant relations in the characteristics and dynamics of fluid mud. He or she will calibrate the models with available data from practical experiments, test the models in relevant cases and publish research work in conferences and scientific journals.
The researchers should have a background and interest in the rheology of fluid mud or other material with non-Newtonian behaviour. The successful candidate has an MSc degree in physics, geotechnical engineering or civil engineering. A strong motivation for science and engineering and proficient written and spoken communication skills in English are crucial for the successful completion of this challenging project.
Description
The rheological properties of fluid mud in ports and waterways have been subject to research for decades. Mainly based on practical research, a number of ports apply the so-called nautical depth approach using the bulk density of the fluid mud as the key parameter. In that approach the density is an indicator for the strength of the fluid mud, and as such for the behaviour and characteristics of the fluid mud with regard to dredging and navigation. Recently, with newly developed sensors for the measurement of the yield stresses in the fluid mud and practical experiments, it has been manifest that the relation between strength and bulk density is time dependent and may also depend on dredging strategies and navigational practices. It is also clear that this relation is different for different ports, such as the ports of Zeebrugge, Rotterdam and Delfzijl.
The promoters for the PhD research will be Prof. T. Vellinga and Prof. J.C. Winterwerp of the Rivers, Ports, Waterways and Dredging Engineering Section of the Department of Hydraulic Engineering. The research activities will mainly be carried out at Delft University of Technology with a strong focus on the situation in the Port of Rotterdam, in collaboration with the Rotterdam Port Authority. Collaboration with (international) research laboratories and technology development companies with complementary expertise is foreseen.
Nr of positions available : 1
Research Fields
Engineering - Civil engineering
Career Stage
Early stage researcher or 0-4 yrs (Post graduate)
Research Profiles
First Stage Researcher (R1)
Benefits
The TU Delft offers an attractive benefits package, including a flexible work week and the option of assembling a customised compensation and benefits package (the 'IKA'). Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. Please visit www.phd.tudelft.nl for more information.
Comment/web site for additional job details
For more information about this position, please contact Prof. T. Vellinga, phone: +31 (0)15-278 3345 (secr. Hydraulic Engineering), e-mail: t.vellinga@tudelft.nl. To apply, please e-mail a detailed CV, grades list, scientific publications and/or MSc thesis, and list with three references along with a letter of application by 1 April 015 to Recruitment-CiTG@tudelft.nl.
When applying for this position, please refer to vacancy number CITG14-52. See also:
recruitment2.tudelft.nl/vacatures/index.php
Contract 4 years
Salary €2083 to €2664 per month gross