PhD student position in Risk-based renewal of water distribution networks

Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.

Description

Drinking water distribution networks need ongoing maintenance to ensure the reliable delivery of safe drinking water to consumers. Effective management systems are needed to ensure long-lasting pipe networks that minimise health risks, costs and interruptions to water supply. Existing methods for managing pipe networks are difficult to use due to their reliance upon extensive system data. To effectively prioritise pipe replacement and repairs in the absence of extensive long-term datasets, it must be well-understand how various types of faults or vulnerabilities in the network influence health risks and maintenance costs.

Well-performing distribution networks introduce negligible health risks to consumers. However, various events can lead to polluted water intrusions in the network, including when pipes are cross-connected, or when low pressure areas develop causing water to flow in the wrong direction. Estimates of public health risks associated with pollution intrusion are largely based on assumptions instead of actual data, and epidemiological studies correlating disease incidence to network characteristics are limited in number and scope. To identify cost-effective and sustainable mitigation strategies, alternative options must be carefully evaluated with respect to risks, benefits and costs.

The aim of this research is to develop strategies for managing a water distribution network in the absence of extensive system data, in order to minimize health risks and costs. Important tasks within this scope include:

• quantify microbial risks associated with various hazards that may affect the pipe network, by combining data from pipe surveys, hydraulic models and disease prevalence surveys.
• develop a framework for sound network management based on limited system data

The results will be exemplified in several case studies.

This is a multi-disciplinary project connecting the fields of drinking water engineering, risk assessment, economics and mathematical statistics.

As a PhD student you are expected to work independently in collaboration with other group members. You are expected to develop your own scientific concepts, manage your time effectively, and communicate the results of your research verbally and in writing, in Swedish and English. Proficiency in spoken and written Swedish is essential for maintaining a close relationship with Swedish stakeholders.

The candidate is expected to participate in undergraduate-level teaching within the department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, corresponding to 20% of full-time work.

Nr of positions available : 1