EngD position: Standardizing Fieldwork and Data Management for Utility Mapping
Develop fieldwork protocols and data management processes based on long-term systematic collection of geophysical data from UT FieldLab’s Utility Mapping Site
Reliable information concerning underground infrastructure are crucial for safe excavation, asset management, and the digital evolution of the subsurface sector. Utility owners and contractors are progressively relying on Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and other non-destructive sensing technologies. While further automation of the data processing for these tools is possible, a systematic approach to the collection and archiving of reusable geophysical data is currently missing. Consequently, researchers and developers have limited data – inhibiting development of AI models for utility detection.
In this EngD project, you will design a standardized protocol for fieldwork and data handling of GPR measurements at the University of Twente’s Utility Mapping Site (UMS). The UMS provides an ideal environment for testing and evaluating utility detection technologies. While various GPR systems exist, a method for systematically collecting, documenting, and comparing measurement data is lacking. You will outline measurement procedures, key metadata, and performance indicators to maintain consistent measurements across different systems and environmental settings.
By following this protocol, you will conduct measurement campaigns and help develop a benchmark dataset. This dataset supports the evaluation of GPR systems used in utility mapping and future data-driven innovations in that field.
Your environment
This project is part of the ZoARG programme, a collaborative initiative aimed at minimizing excavation damage to underground infrastructure in the Netherlands. You will work within a multidisciplinary environment that includes:
- The University of Twente’s Departments of Civil Engineering and Management (CEM) and Applied Earth Sciences (AES)
- The Utility Mapping Site (UMS) at the UT FieldLab
- Industry collaborators involved in the ZoARG programme
What you will do
- Develop a consistent approach for conducting Ground Penetrating Radar measurements at the Utility Mapping Site
- Build a data management protocol for the collection, storage and documentation of GPR measurement data
- Establish pertinent measurement conditions and metadata needed to conduct detailed comparison of GPR systems
- Plan and complete repeated field measurement campaigns using different GPR systems
- Develop and sustain a well-organized benchmark dataset for utility mapping research
- Work in close partnership with infrastructure owners, contractors, technology providers, and researchers engaged in the ZoARG programme
- Report findings and translate results into practical recommendations for measurement practice and technology evaluation
Information and application
Submit your application by 27 November 2026. Your application must include:
• A recent CV detailing relevant academic and (if applicable) professional experience
• A motivation letter (max. 1.5 pages) explaining your interest and relevant background for this project
• An overview of your MSc degree: including thesis title, abstract, and grade list
For questions about the project or your eligibility, please contact the selection committee at: l.l.oldescholtenhuis@utwente.nl or r.b.a.terhuurne@utwente.nl.
Selected candidates will be invited for an (online) interview with the academic supervisors. Interviews will take place on 11 and 18 December.
Starting date of this position is in the first half of 2027.
Preferred candidates will proceed to a matching interview with the project steering committee.
Screening is part of the procedure.
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.
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