Modelling Ephemeral and Terminal Gully Erosion on Cut-slopes and Embankments for Climate Resilient Linear Transport Infrastructure.
University of Birmingham
Department of Civil Engineering
Dr Esdras Ngezahayo
Applications accepted all year round
Self-Funded PhD Students Only
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About the Project
Roads and railways are the most important types of infrastructure in any country. The construction of roads and railways involve cutting and filling of slopes, hence reshaping of the natural ground. This alters hydrological systems and the stress regimes within slopes which in combination with exposure to climate change scenarios lead to changes in failure mechanisms of the cuts and fills (embankments). Gully erosion is the major cause to these slope failures. Regarded as the terminal point of…
erosion processes, it has unfortunately not been studied exhaustively along the transport infrastructure, and there are many unknowns than answered questions. Several studies limited their focus on sheet and rill erosions that are easier to model and test experimentally. In our continued effort to achieve more climate resilient linear transport infrastructure, this research will delve into the modelling of gully erosion mechanisms along cut slopes and embankments. Results are likely to inform erosion control techniques along cut slopes and embankments and thereby contribute to sustainable, climate resilient linear transport infrastructure. The supervisory team has the required expertise combining experimental and computational methods to successfully complete the research– these will be discussed with candidates. Applicants may propose complementary or alternative methods.
Interested applicants can contact Dr Esdras Ngezahayo (e.ngezahayo@bham.ac.uk) for further details and guidance on how to apply.
Eligibility: Home and International students
Requirements: MSc/MEng degree in geotechnical engineering, geology, geoenvironmental engineering, civil engineering, and related disciplines. A first-class undergraduate degree in these areas with relevant working experience can be considered.
