PhD position: High resolution micro-scale modelling of Backward Erosion Piping

A key threat to dike stability is Backward Erosion Piping (BEP), a complex process in which seepage flow through the dike foundation progressively concentrates into internal erosion channels (“pipes”) caused by sand particle erosion, particularly during high-water events. In the worst-case scenario, such pipes can develop into breaches. Current assessment methods use overly simplified models that don’t account for the intricate physics beneath the surface. Digital Dikes addresses this critical challenge by developing advanced numerical models that capture the 3D nature of BEP and the variability of soil and water conditions. The program will train 14 young researchers to develop, apply and validate novel modelling methodologies to assess dike safety, in collaboration with industry, government, and international partners.

Project details:

Internal erosion mechanisms remain poorly understood, particularly at the microscale, which limits the development of reliable models for real-life dikes. Two distinct processes govern Backward Erosion Piping: primary erosion (Darcy-driven erosion at the pipe tip) and secondary erosion (tangential erosion along the pipe walls), which are responsible for the upstream propagation and for the widening of the erosion channel, respectively.

This PhD project will employ advanced particle–fluid simulation tools to model microscale piping erosion, with a particular focus on primary erosion mechanisms. The foreseen numerical simulations methods are the Discrete Element Method (DEM) for the granular soil and the Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM) for the seepage flow at the pore scale. This coupled framework can resolve complex pore-scale fluid flow and effectively captures particle motion driven by erosion. The study will target:

·       Primary erosion at the upstream-propagating pipe tip;

·       Three-dimensional pipe networks, where secondary streams converge into the primary pipe, forming meandering pathways as the pipe advances;

·       The influence of small-scale heterogeneities (e.g., local density variations) on the development of meandering patterns.

The overarching objective is to establish connections between soil characteristics (particle size distribution, initial density, and pressure), local heterogeneity, and, in turn, the 3D advancement of the pipe tip. By comparing different soil conditions, the study will assess how primary erosion is affected by the formation of 3D branches in relation to soil properties.

This project necessitates high-performance computing (HPC) methods and infrastructures to enable, for the first time, a three-dimensional particle-scale numerical investigation of BEP primary erosion.

Information and application

Please submit your application before June 15, 2026 via the ‘Apply now’ button, including:

· A cover letter (maximum 1 pages A4), emphasizing your specific interests, qualifications, motivation, and research ideas for the PhD project.
·  A detailed Curriculum Vitae, including an overview of all courses attended and grades obtained.
·  A description (maximum half-page A4) of your MSc research.

Screening is part of the procedure.
The interviews are planned in the 1st and 2nd week of July 2026.

For more information about this vacancy you can contact Prof.dr. Vanessa Magnanimo  (v.magnanimo@utwente.nl)

About the organisation

At the Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET), we work on engineering for impact: developing smart, sustainable, human-centred and technological solutions for societal challenges. We connect fundamental education, research and practice across five core domains: Asset & Maintenance engineering, Intelligent Manufacturing Systems, Personalised Health Technology, Resilience Engineering, and Sustainable Production, Energy and Resources.

We work on education and research in mechanical engineering, civil engineering and industrial design engineering. Together, we learn by making, creating, and innovating, addressing challenges in a solution-oriented way. Quality, connection and inclusivity are the foundation of our culture.

In our open community, students, researchers and staff collaborate with industrial and societal partners. This enables us to develop insights, applications and solutions that add value to society.

Want to know more

Magnanimo, V. (Vanessa)
Professor

Magnanimo, V. (Vanessa)
Professor

Do you have questions about this vacancy? Then you can contact Vanessa for all substantive questions about this position and the application procedure. For general questions about working for the UT, please refer to the chatbot.

Contact

Phone:+31534895363

Email:v.magnanimo@utwente.nl