PhD Position Advanced Numerical Analysis for Probabilistic Assessment of Ma

at  TU Delft

JOB DESCRIPTION

We are looking for a PhD candidate to work on advanced numerical analysis and improve the assessment of historical infrastructure, specifically masonry quay walls, which are a specific type of earth-retaining structure. This infrastructure plays a key dual role in many historic cities, especially in the Netherlands, serving both as functional infrastructure and as culturally significant assets. Originally designed as gravity retaining walls, quay walls are increasingly exposed to higher loads due to vehicle traffic on carriageways above their backfill. Additionally, many historical quay walls suffer from material degradation, particularly in timber foundations, making accurate assessment essential. However, traditional methods often result in conservative predictions, and the absence of standardised procedures for evaluating multi-wythe masonry walls adds to the complexity.
This PhD research is part of a research project linked to the Bridge and Quay walls (Bruggen en Kademuren) programme set up by the municipality of Amsterdam, whose broader scope focuses on the monitoring and assessing of quay walls and bridges across the city. The PhD project builds on high-fidelity numerical models recently developed, incorporating the interaction between quay wall structures and the surrounding soil. These models have been used to investigate different levels of simulation complexity and correlate results through behaviour factors. The PhD research will aim to expand these methods to enable rapid assessments of extensive networks of quay walls and support intervention planning by the city’s engineering office via probabilistic assessment.
The research will focus on addressing several technical challenges. These include accounting for dynamic traffic loads and repeated vehicle passages, determining load intensities that may trigger quay wall failure, and identifying monitored outputs that could predict collapse. The study will also involve establishing threshold values for displacements and deformation velocities to anticipate failure mechanisms. A typological approach will be followed to produce fragility curves and serve a probabilistic assessment of different quay wall types. Additionally, the project will investigate strengthening solutions and their numerical modelling to improve stability.
During the PhD research, you will work closely with a team of researchers who can support you in the development of the numerical model. Additionally, you will have frequent contact with other researchers and PhD fellows investigating other relevant aspects related to the quay walls, such as material characterization, dynamic experimental characterization, or monitoring. You will have the opportunity to attend regular meetings with stakeholders and engineers of the Amsterdam engineering office working within the framework of the Bridge and Quay Walls programme.
At TU Delft, we provide a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters international collaboration, innovation, and work-life balance. If you are willing to leverage science and innovation to create societal impact, join us in shaping a sustainable future!

JOB REQUIREMENTS

You excel in developing complex numerical models and analysing simulations, bringing strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with colleagues and project partners. With a solid foundation in structural engineering and a keen interest in interdisciplinary research, you are well-suited for this role. Specifically, you have:

• Education: An MSc in a relevant field, such as Civil, Structural Engineering or related areas, with knowledge of structural mechanics and soil mechanics. Familiarity with masonry mechanics is an advantage.
• Technical Skills: Experience with advanced finite element software and nonlinear analyses; familiarity with DIANA FEA is a plus. Strong numerical skills and proficiency in Python (preferred) and/or MATLAB for data analysis are required. Knowledge of probabilistic design and managing uncertainty is desirable but not mandatory.
• Language: Excellent command of English (see requirements for PhDs at TU Delft; Dutch proficiency is helpful but not essential. While some on-the-job learning is expected, a strong technical foundation is essential to succeed in this position.

• Education: An MSc in a relevant field, such as Civil, Structural Engineering or related areas, with knowledge of structural mechanics and soil mechanics. Familiarity with masonry mechanics is an advantage.
• Technical Skills: Experience with advanced finite element software and nonlinear analyses; familiarity with DIANA FEA is a plus. Strong numerical skills and proficiency in Python (preferred) and/or MATLAB for data analysis are required. Knowledge of probabilistic design and managing uncertainty is desirable but not mandatory.
• Language: Excellent command of English (see requirements for PhDs at TU Delft; Dutch proficiency is helpful but not essential. While some on-the-job learning is expected, a strong technical foundation is essential to succeed in this position