PhD on Numerical Modelling of Subsurface Erosion in Dikes and Geothermal Wells

Introduction

Are you passionate about understanding hidden soil failure processes? Join us to explore how subsurface erosion leads to dike instability and sand production in geothermal wells using cutting-edge FEM modelling.

Job Description

In this PhD position, you contribute to a high-impact research project that combines advanced modelling with lab-scale experimentation to better understand and predict subsurface erosion phenomena.

Subsurface erosion—often invisible until it causes catastrophic damage—poses major risks to buried infrastructure. In this PhD project, you will investigate two pressing real-world challenges: sand production in geothermal boreholes and backward erosion piping in dikes. Both processes are driven by internal erosion mechanisms, which will be studied by developing and extending coupled hydro-mechanical erosion models.

This research simulates subsurface erosion in geothermal wells and dikes with advanced finite element models calibrated through small- and medium-scale laboratory experiments. It investigates the effects of soil properties, flow paths, and scale, aiming to develop practical prediction tools for engineering applications. 

You will be part of the chairs of Applied Mechanics and Engineering Thermodynamics for Energy Systems at the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Netherlands. You will work closely with experts in numerical simulations, soil mechanics and geotechnical modelling. Your work will help safeguard infrastructure, improve geothermal energy systems, and enhance flood protection strategies—contributing to climate-resilient, sustainable development. You will be part of a supportive, inclusive, and multidisciplinary team tackling real-world problems with global relevance.

This project will be embedded within the BEHeaT program on subsurface heat extraction of the Eindhoven Institute for Renewable Energy Systems (EIRES) of the TU/e, serving as a valuable addition to the suite of methodologies for sustainable heat generation. Approaching the topic from a systems perspective within the broader BEHeaT framework, and linking related efforts from the Built Environment and Mechanical Engineering departments, the project strengthens interdepartmental collaboration and aligns well with EIRES’s energy transition goals.

We welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds and encourage applicants who are enthusiastic, curious, and driven by impact. At TU/e, you will find a supportive and collaborative research environment where you can grow as both a scientist and a professional.

Job Requirements

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Civil Engineering or Mechanical Engineering, with a specialization in Applied Mechanics or Computational Mechanics.
• A research-oriented attitude.
• Fluent in spoken and written English (C1 level).
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team and interested in collaborating with academic/industrial partners.
• Motivated to develop your teaching skills and coach students.

Conditions of Employment

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you: 

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment. 
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 2,901 max. € 3,707).  
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%. 
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process. 
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.  
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs. 
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates. 

Information and application

About us

Eindhoven University of Technology is an internationally top-ranking university in the Netherlands that combines scientific curiosity with a hands-on attitude. Our spirit of collaboration translates into an open culture and a top-five position in collaborating with advanced industries. Fundamental knowledge enables us to design solutions for the highly complex problems of today and tomorrow. 

Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

How about a PhD at TU/e?

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager Prof. Dr. A.S.J. Suiker, Full Professor in Applied Mechanics (A.S.J. Suiker@tue.nl).

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact Scott Jacops, HR Advisor (s.m.m.c.b.jacops@tue.nl).

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.