Engineering Doctorate in Digital Dikes: A multiscale framework for risk assessment of Backward Erosion Piping

The Netherlands relies heavily on its dikes. However, current models do not show exactly how dikes collapse when seepage flows erode sand underneath a dike (Backward Erosion Piping).  The Digital Dikes project is changing that. The consortium aims to develop advanced digital models with varying degrees of detail, integrated into a flexible open-source tool, assimilating monitoring data to give probabilistic predictions. This framework can assess the probability (and severity) of pipe progression as a function of dike geometry, variability of subsurface properties and hydraulic loads. The novel technology will be tested through real-world case studies, co-designed with industry, government, and international users. This makes accurate risk assessment and targeted dike reinforcement possible.

Digital Dikes is a prestigious and ambitious project funded by NWO. Twente University is leading this projects with consortium partners University of Utrecht, Eindhoven University, University of Bologna and Deltares. The partners are supported by a large group of users, government (e.g. Water Authorities, Rijkswaterstaat, STOWA, Dutch Flood Protection Programme) and international organisations.

The EngD project will be conducted under the supervision of Prof. V. Magnanimo at University of Twente, Dr. V. Van Beek at Deltares and Prof. L. Tonni and M. Marchi at University of Bologna.

For applications, please submit your documents using the ‘Apply now’ button below, including your CV, motivation letter, bachelor and master transcripts, contact details of at least two references who worked closely with you, theses or reports (if available).

Master students who will graduate in the next coming months are welcome to apply. In that case, please provide an overview of the transcripts that are already available.

The deadline for application is 15 March 2026.
The intended starting date is as soon as possible and no later than 1 September 2026.

Screening is part of the procedure.

The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. We enable society and industry to innovate and create value using efficient, solid and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people-first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading center for smart production, processes and devices in five domains: Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to about 2,900 Bachelor's and Master's students, 550 employees and 150 PhD candidates. Our educational and research programmes are closely connected with UT research institutes Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Center and Digital Society Institute.