Postdoc position in SaltiSolutions

Job description

Rehistration website

Salt intrusion is a major threat to the availability of fresh water and the management of freshwater habitats in deltas. This project therefore looks for both natural and technological solutions to support coastal zone management. The SaltiSolutions project aims to develop the “Virtual Delta”, a digital replica of a delta system. In the Virtual Delta scientific knowledge and local interests interact to test new solutions. To guarantee the application of our outcomes, users are actively involved in the development of the Virtual Delta system.

For this project our group at the University of Twente is currently exploring what indicators are used by the key stakeholders for decision making related to salt intrusion and what information they need hereto. From this we will develop the Delta Management Game as part of the Virtual Delta. The Delta Management game enables stakeholders to gain an increased understanding of the delta system, to learn about other stakeholders’ perspectives, to build relationships, and to enhance trust and cooperation.

For  the Delta Management Game, the PostDoc will develop the Integrated Assessment Model (IAM). This IAM will be a qualitative model that visualizes and specifies links and effects of mitigating solutions to salt intrusion to the key indicators. Existing models and the models produced in other SALTISolutions workpackages will be reviewed on their applicability to quantify the effects and their ability to assess effects quickly. Where necessary, meta models (i.e. simplified models that behave like their parent models) will be developed to make application in the IAM feasible. Moreover, assessment models for certain key indicators may not be available or not be suitable and may need to be developed. Data from partners within SALTISolutions may then be used to quantify effects and if those are not available, experts may be involved to create best estimates. The IAM will be developed in iterative cycles, with early tests starting with the qualitative model and testing to continue with refined, quantified designs. The IAM’s applicability—whether it can or cannot be used for its intended purpose—and its usefulness—its added value—will be assessed by applying the IAM to case studies.

• PhD (and MSc) in Civil Engineering, Earth System Science, Applied Mathematics or Computer Sciences.
• Extensive experience in computer model development.
• Affinity with data processing or numerical modeling
• Excellent ability to think multidisciplinary and take a systemic view
• Excellent ability to work in a team and engage diverse stakeholders
• Good communication skills, in speech and writing and in English and Dutch.

Our offer

• A  full-time contract for 36 months (with possibility of extension)
• A gross salary between € 3.353,- and € 4.402,-  per month , depending on experience and qualifications.
• An annual holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, and an annual end of year bonus of 8.3%.
• A solid pension scheme.
• Minimum of 29 leave days in case of full-time employment.
• Professional and personal development programs.
• The University of Twente is situated on a green and lively campus with lots of facilities for sports and other extracurricular activities.
• In the last phase, a duo-position at Deltares can be discussed.

You can apply for this position before 11th of September 2021 by clicking the ‘apply now’ button below. Please include a CV (including contact information for at least two academic references) and a cover letter.

For more information on this position, please contact prof.dr. J.C.J. Kwadijk, [email protected].

SALTISolutions  is a multi-disciplinary TTW-funded Perspective Program, led by TU Delft and carried out in close collaboration with the universities of Twente, Eindhoven, Utrecht, Wageningen and NIOZ.

bout the organization

The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering with a view to enabling society and industry to innovate and create value using sound, efficient and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people-first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading centre for smart production, processes and devices in five domains: Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to some 1,800 Bachelor's and Master's students, 400 employees and 150 PhD candidates and offers three degree programmes: Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. Our educational and research programme are closely connected with UT research institutes Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centra and Digital Society Institute.

University of Twente (UT)

University of Twente (UT) has entered the new decade with an ambitious, new vision, mission and strategy. As ‘the ultimate people-first university of technology' we are rapidly expanding on our High Tech Human Touch philosophy and the unique role it affords us in society. Everything we do is aimed at maximum impact on people, society and connections through the sustainable utilisation of science and technology. We want to contribute to the development of a fair, digital and sustainable society through our open, inclusive and entrepreneurial attitude. This attitude permeates everything we do and is present in every one of UT's departments and faculties. Building on our rich legacy in merging technical and social sciences, we focus on five distinguishing research domains: Improving healthcare by personalised technologies; Creating intelligent manufacturing systems; Shaping our world with smart materials; Engineering our digital society; and Engineering for a resilient world.

As an employer, University of Twente offers jobs that matter. We equip you as a staff member to shape new opportunities both for yourself and for our society. With us, you will be part of a leading tech university that is changing our world for the better. We offer an open, inclusive and entrepreneurial climate, in which we encourage you to make healthy choices, for example, with our flexible, customisable conditions.