"EngD position: Designing a framework for the digitalization of condition-based maintenance for Lock Complexes of RWS"

The aim of this project is to design a framework for the SHM system of the Hengelo Lock Complex. You will investigate how the condition of the lock is currently assessed and identify triggers that allow for automated, continuous SHM with minimal human interventions.

Your research will cover:

• Analysis of structural and mechanical behaviour of lock components.
• Review of relevant national, regional, and organizational regulations and guidelines.
• Evaluation of current practices and feasible structural health monitoring technologies.
• Cost–benefit assessment of sensor deployment and measurement interpretation strategies.

This is a multifaceted project at the intersection of structural and mechanical engineering, asset management, and Civionics – sensor-based SHM of civil infrastructure.

The project is sponsored and hosted by Rijkswaterstaat, the executive agency of the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management. Rijkswaterstaat designs, constructs, manages, and maintains key infrastructure in the Netherlands.

You will be supervised by: Dr. Farid Vahdatikhaki (University of Twente), Dr. Roland Kromanis (University of Twente), and Mr. Sukon Wu (Rijkswaterstaat). You will work closely with Rijkswaterstaat to deliver a tailor-made design artifact with real-world impact. The project will start in January 2026 and is based in Enschede/Hengelo.

Requirements: We invite you to apply if you are one of the best M.Sc. graduates with a background in structural and mechanical engineering, structural health monitoring, monitoring systems, and asset management. You have the ambition and talent to accelerate in finding solutions for complex technological issues with a multidisciplinary character. Your professional English proficiency is high, and a working command of Dutch is highly preferred. You like to spend time in a professional organization like Rijkswaterstaat and the academic environment of the University of Twente. You work systematically, design innovative solutions, work independently, have strong communication and social skills, collaborate in teams, take initiative, and are willing to move to the vicinity of Enschede. Presence at the UT and Rijkswaterstaat branch in Hengelo is expected on a daily basis.

Conditions of employment: Two-year fulltime EngD position combining scientific and research domains with education and practical implementation of innovative design. Full status as an employee at the UT, including pension and health care benefits. Tailor-made educational/development program of at least 6 months (30 EC), including visits to conferences. A salary of €3,029 gross per month. An annual holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, and an annual year-end bonus of 8.3%. Minimum of 29 holidays per year in case of fulltime employment. A work environment on a green and lively campus with sports and leisure facilities. Mentorship that supports your professional and personal growth. On successfully completing the program, you will receive a certified and recognised degree, entitling you to use the academic title of Engineering Doctorate (EngD) and be registered as a Technological Designer in the Dutch register kept by the Royal Institution of Engineers in the Netherlands (KIVI).

Additional information: Please send your application before November 15th. Your submission must include a recent CV (including relevant academic and professional experience), a motivation letter (max 1 page) explaining your interest and relevant background knowledge, and an overview of your M.Sc. degree (including thesis project title, thesis abstract, and grade list). For more information, contact the selection committee via email: f.vahdatikhaki@utwente.nl (Farid Vahdati) or r.kromanis@utwente.nl (Roland Kromanis). Interviews will take place between 15 November and 30 November 2025. Screening will be part of the procedure.