Professor in Adaptation and Life Cycle Management of Complex Hydraulic Structures 0.4 FTE

Major hydraulic structures, such as storm surge barriers and dams, are essential for the safety and functioning of delta regions, such as the Netherlands. Many of the existing structures in the Netherlands are aging and need to be upgraded. Other regions around the world, such as Singapore and Texas, are planning novel coastal adaptation programs.

Research on performance, adaptation and design of storm surge barriers and hydraulic structures encompasses a number of research challenges. These are complex and unique structures with high reliability requirements. They usually have multiple functions, such as flood protection, navigation and ecological functions, which all have to be addressed in design and management. There are substantial future uncertainties that affect future performance: sea level rise, subsidence, extreme events and (structural) degradation. Finally, a multidisciplinary approach is needed to address system adaptation and performance, including expertise from civil engineering (hydraulic, structural, geotechnical engineering, risk and reliability) but also expertise in mechanical and ICT systems, and human operations, which all have to be addressed jointly.

Together with your group you will develop scientific expertise to contribute to design, adaptation and life cycle management strategies for storm surge barriers and major hydraulic structures in the Netherlands and around the world. Core research lines associated with this field include:

• Quantitative assessment of structure performance and reliability, including the use of novel techniques (e.g. digital twins) and data and monitoring systems;
• Development of scientific knowledge for improving future adaptation, operation and maintenance – so called (asset) life cycle management;
• Development of risk- and reliability based methods to design infrastructure adaptation for uncertain future conditions.

This is a part-time position (0.4 fte) as a full professor in the hydraulic engineering department at the faculty of civil engineering and geosciences at TU Delft. It is expected that you will establish a strong link with government and the engineering practice and should therefore hold another related part-time position in the field, either in the private sector, government or in a knowledge institute.

Your main responsibilities are:

• Education: contribute to the ‘hydraulic and off shore structures’ track in our Msc program and the general civil engineering program, and development of innovative teaching materials and methods in the field of the chair. Supervision of students for thesis and project work, and contributions to post-academic education for partners in the field.
• Research: initiate, perform and lead scientific research in your own field of specialization. You will bring your own in-depth expertise, and will also act as an integrator of other required disciplines. You have a good publication record in peer-reviewed journals, experience with obtaining externally funded research projects and  knowledge of and connection with new developments in the sector
• Valorization: play a key role in the cooperation of the university with the sector in the Netherlands and globally. Collaboration with the partners from industry, government and research institutes and (inter)national academic groups is expected. The research is anticipated to be connected to external projects and initiatives and to have impact on projects and designs in practice. Besides representation in relevant networks such as ENW, I-Storm and PIANC is considered to be relevant.
• Organisation: management of your own team, and potentially a role in the management of the section and within committees within the faculty or TU Delft.

You have a leading position in scientific research related to storm surge barriers and hydraulic structures, as evidenced by a PhD thesis, scientific publications, and leadership experience in research. Projects and publications demonstrate scientific quality as well as practical relevance and impact. You  have experience with obtaining external funding and a clear vision on future research developments in the field;

You also have:

• MSc and PhD degrees in civil engineering or a strongly related field, and you are a leading expert in one or more relevant specializations in civil engineering such as hydraulic, structural or reliability engineering.
• Demonstrated capabilities to integrate knowledge and expertise from fields beyond your expertise in research and projects. This is needed given the multidisciplinary approach needed to address barrier performance and adaptation.
• Demonstrated ability to innovate through research, leading to impact in practice. Your research has been used in and linked to projects in the field of hydraulic structures and storm surge barriers. Besides, you have a clear vision on how future research can contribute to solving challenges in practice. You have an established national and international network in the sector, spanning industry, government, and academia.
• Excellent teaching capabilities, with a passion and interest in educating the next generation of hydraulic and civil engineers. You have experience in education, knowledge transfer and disseminating information, demonstrating commitment to effective teaching. You have a clear vision on future development in education in the field of the position and have an affinity for educational innovation.
• Strong leadership skills, focused on supporting and supervising academic professionals, leading research teams and projects. You are capable to connect and collaborate with others effectively and is recognized as a team player. You are able to communicate effectively in English, and preferably also in Dutch.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

Inspiring, excellent education is our central aim. We expect you to obtain a University Teaching Qualification (UTQ) within three years if you have less than five years of teaching experience. This is provided by the TU Delft UTQ programme.

TU Delft sets high standards for the English competency of the teaching staff. The TU Delft offers training to improve English competency. If you do not speak Dutch, we offer courses to learn the Dutch language.

For international applicants, TU Delft has the Coming to Delft Service . This service addresses the needs of new international employees and those of their partners and families. The Coming to Delft Service offers personalised assistance during the preparation of the relocation, finding housing and schools for children (if applicable). In addition, a Dual Career Programme for partners is offered. The Coming to Delft Service will do their best to help you settle in the Netherlands.

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology, and delta technology. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource availability, urbanisation and clean water. Our research projects are conducted in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced of the importance of open science and supports its scientists in integrating open science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport &; Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.

Clickhere to go to the website of the Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences.

A comprehensive version of the profile description can be found at the website of the hydraulic engineering department .

Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 5 November 2023 via the application button and upload the following documents in one pdf file.

• Your motivation letter;
• A vision document (max. 2 pages) indicating your vision on research, education and valorization;
• A comprehensive (academic) CV.

The interviews with selected candidates are expected to take place on January 17, 2024.

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-Employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.