Postdoc Researcher for Monitoring in-Situ Root Growth in Urban Settings

Job description

The ambition of this project is to create a 'digital twin' of the ecosystem services of the urban soil/subsoil in Amsterdam required for optimal tree growth. Ecosystem services include: storing water in the unsaturated zone; draining water via groundwater; sequestering carbon; filtering and breaking down contaminants in groundwater; providing a growth environment for soil and plant roots; providing carrying capacity for infrastructure; providing biological activity for biological soil improvement.

The digital twin aims to be a tool that provides insight into where tree roots grow and what impact these roots have on the local environment. The presence of active tree roots influences water flow, water content and nutrient transport. In addition, as tree roots grow, they apply stresses on infrastructure such as roads, foundations and sewers. This often leads to damages requiring expensive repair measures and often the tree is then removed. The aim of this project is to understand how tree roots grow in the urban context and use these insights to predict how they will damage infrastructure, but also to develop approaches to prevent damage. In the project we aim to develop a numerical model to predict root growth.

Your task as a Postdoc researcher is to develop a measurement and monitoring strategy at a number of sites in Amsterdam to quantify tree root growth from in-situ measurements. This should provide the team with data which can be used as site- specific boundary conditions for running model scenarios, and data which can be used to test the developed models. Measurements will include, for example, water content, and pressure head with local in-situ sensors. In addition we aim to carry out spatially distributed measurements with for example shallow-depth geo-radar.

You will be based at the department of Geoscience & Engineering (GSE) within the faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences in Delft. There will be a close working relationship with the AMS-institute in Amsterdam. Field sites will be provided by the city of Amsterdam.

GSE has an excellent laboratory and field measurement capacity with very experienced support staff for high level geotechnical and geophysical measurement setups.

At TU Delft, we offer a supportive and inclusive working environment that values international collaboration, innovation, and work-life balance. If you’re enthusiastic about combining science, innovation, and societal impact, we’d love to hear from you. Join us in shaping a more sustainable future!

Job requirements
You are an engineer looking to use your analytical and technical skills and innate curiosity to create an impact for a more sustainable urban environment. You also thrive in a complex trans-disciplinary team with many stakeholders.

In addition you have:

• An MSc and PhD in Geosciences, Environmental Science or Engineering, with a focus on Soil Physics, Geotechnical Engineering, or Geophysics;
• You have strong experimental skills and experience with field experiments;
• You have experience with soil physical measurement and monitoring techniques;
• You have experience with shallow depth geophysical measurement techniques;
• You can manage automated high frequency measurements and the resulting data streams;
• You have knowledge of plant physiology;
• You have a driving license valid in the Netherlands; 

As the position requires you to work independently on site in Amsterdam, Dutch proficiency is important as well.    

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences
The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology, and delta technology. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource availability, urbanisation and clean water. Our research projects are conducted in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced of the importance of open science and supports its scientists in integrating open science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences.

Technician Specialising in Cryogenic Miniature Robotics for Planetary Research

Job description

Enceladus, one of Saturn’s icy moons, harbors a subsurface ocean rich in salts and complex organic molecules — one of the most promising environments for extraterrestrial life in our solar system. Access to this ocean is possible only through fractures in kilometers-thick ice where cryogenic geysers erupt.

To enable future exploration of this extreme environment, we are developing a bio-inspired ice-climbing robot that adheres to ice using Peltier-driven local melting and refreezing, forming strong bonds with the ice to allow locomotion. This technology also has powerful Earth-based applications in polar exploration, search-and-rescue, and infrastructure inspection in icy environments.

We are seeking a hands-on Robotics Technician to help bring this system from laboratory prototypes to mission-ready hardware.

You will play a central role in building, testing, and refining a novel cryogenic climbing robot designed to operate on vertical and overhanging ice. Working closely with scientists and engineers, you will assemble mechanical and thermal systems, integrate electronics, and conduct adhesion and climbing tests in cold environments.

This is a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of planetary exploration, robotics, and cryogenic physics.

Job requirements
The ideal candidate has strong hands-on skills in robotics and mechatronic assembly, experience with thermal systems such as Peltier elements, and the ability to work with ice adhesion and cryogenic test setups. They are comfortable with electronics and high-current power systems, mechanical prototyping, and experimental troubleshooting, and can reliably collect and interpret test data while working in cold and extreme environments.

TU Delft
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Aerospace Engineering
The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe.

When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab—into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace, assisted by an active Diversity & Inclusion team. This includes tangible support such as funding for extra personnel for family and caregiving responsibilities, mentoring programmes, and initiatives that promote cultural exchange and integration.

You don’t just join our faculty — you join a community where you can thrive, grow, and help shape the future of aerospace.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.

Postdoc Researcher for Monitoring in-Situ Root Growth in Urban Settings

Job description

The ambition of this project is to create a 'digital twin' of the ecosystem services of the urban soil/subsoil in Amsterdam required for optimal tree growth. Ecosystem services include: storing water in the unsaturated zone; draining water via groundwater; sequestering carbon; filtering and breaking down contaminants in groundwater; providing a growth environment for soil and plant roots; providing carrying capacity for infrastructure; providing biological activity for biological soil improvement.

The digital twin aims to be a tool that provides insight into where tree roots grow and what impact these roots have on the local environment. The presence of active tree roots influences water flow, water content and nutrient transport. In addition, as tree roots grow, they apply stresses on infrastructure such as roads, foundations and sewers. This often leads to damages requiring expensive repair measures and often the tree is then removed. The aim of this project is to understand how tree roots grow in the urban context and use these insights to predict how they will damage infrastructure, but also to develop approaches to prevent damage. In the project we aim to develop a numerical model to predict root growth.

Your task as a Postdoc researcher is to develop a measurement and monitoring strategy at a number of sites in Amsterdam to quantify tree root growth from in-situ measurements. This should provide the team with data which can be used as site- specific boundary conditions for running model scenarios, and data which can be used to test the developed models. Measurements will include, for example, water content, and pressure head with local in-situ sensors. In addition we aim to carry out spatially distributed measurements with for example shallow-depth geo-radar.

You will be based at the department of Geoscience & Engineering (GSE) within the faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences in Delft. There will be a close working relationship with the AMS-institute in Amsterdam. Field sites will be provided by the city of Amsterdam.

GSE has an excellent laboratory and field measurement capacity with very experienced support staff for high level geotechnical and geophysical measurement setups.

At TU Delft, we offer a supportive and inclusive working environment that values international collaboration, innovation, and work-life balance. If you’re enthusiastic about combining science, innovation, and societal impact, we’d love to hear from you. Join us in shaping a more sustainable future!

Job requirements
You are an engineer looking to use your analytical and technical skills and innate curiosity to create an impact for a more sustainable urban environment. You also thrive in a complex trans-disciplinary team with many stakeholders.

In addition you have:

• An MSc and PhD in Geosciences, Environmental Science or Engineering, with a focus on Soil Physics, Geotechnical Engineering, or Geophysics;
• You have strong experimental skills and experience with field experiments;
• You have experience with soil physical measurement and monitoring techniques;
• You have experience with shallow depth geophysical measurement techniques;
• You can manage automated high frequency measurements and the resulting data streams;
• You have knowledge of plant physiology;
• You have a driving license valid in the Netherlands; 

As the position requires you to work independently on site in Amsterdam, Dutch proficiency is important as well.    

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences
The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology, and delta technology. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource availability, urbanisation and clean water. Our research projects are conducted in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced of the importance of open science and supports its scientists in integrating open science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences.

Technician Specialising in Cryogenic Miniature Robotics for Planetary Research

Job description

Enceladus, one of Saturn’s icy moons, harbors a subsurface ocean rich in salts and complex organic molecules — one of the most promising environments for extraterrestrial life in our solar system. Access to this ocean is possible only through fractures in kilometers-thick ice where cryogenic geysers erupt.

To enable future exploration of this extreme environment, we are developing a bio-inspired ice-climbing robot that adheres to ice using Peltier-driven local melting and refreezing, forming strong bonds with the ice to allow locomotion. This technology also has powerful Earth-based applications in polar exploration, search-and-rescue, and infrastructure inspection in icy environments.

We are seeking a hands-on Robotics Technician to help bring this system from laboratory prototypes to mission-ready hardware.

You will play a central role in building, testing, and refining a novel cryogenic climbing robot designed to operate on vertical and overhanging ice. Working closely with scientists and engineers, you will assemble mechanical and thermal systems, integrate electronics, and conduct adhesion and climbing tests in cold environments.

This is a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of planetary exploration, robotics, and cryogenic physics.

Job requirements
The ideal candidate has strong hands-on skills in robotics and mechatronic assembly, experience with thermal systems such as Peltier elements, and the ability to work with ice adhesion and cryogenic test setups. They are comfortable with electronics and high-current power systems, mechanical prototyping, and experimental troubleshooting, and can reliably collect and interpret test data while working in cold and extreme environments.

TU Delft
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Aerospace Engineering
The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe.

When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab—into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace, assisted by an active Diversity & Inclusion team. This includes tangible support such as funding for extra personnel for family and caregiving responsibilities, mentoring programmes, and initiatives that promote cultural exchange and integration.

You don’t just join our faculty — you join a community where you can thrive, grow, and help shape the future of aerospace.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.

Assistant Professor in Life Cycle Design of Aeronautical Structures

Job description
The position offers the opportunity to develop a research line in life cycle design of aeronautical structures that use non-fossil fuel energy carriers. Rather than concentrating on performance alone, environmental impact, circularity, maintainability and end-of-life strategies are treated as integral design considerations. Close collaboration with colleagues from different disciplines ensures that sustainability and life cycle aspects are embedded in early design decisions. This work contributes directly to the broader transition towards future-ready aviation based on hydrogen and/or electricity. Within the Academic Career Track framework, structured support is provided for developing the research agenda, acquiring funding and building an academic profile. Clear expectations, mentoring and regular feedback are key elements, with explicit attention to sustainable career development.

The role also involves contributing to and further developing BSc and MSc education centred on life cycle design, sustainable structural engineering, and aircraft design for non-fossil-fuel energy carriers. The teaching style emphasises holistic thinking, critical reflection and confidence-building in future engineers. Inclusive, coaching-oriented education is central, with a learning environment in which students feel supported, respected and encouraged to engage. Diversity in perspectives, backgrounds and learning styles is naturally integrated into teaching practice. Supervision of students and early-career researchers forms an important part of the role, with attention to both academic development and well-being.

In addition, the position includes building and maintaining an international, multidisciplinary network with leading academic, research centre and industrial partners, more specifically experts in structural mechanics, materials science, energy systems, sustainability, and design methodologies. This network empowers you to lead or participate in multidisciplinary research project consortia. Collaboration, shared learning and long-term relationships are central. Within the department, the role is embedded in an open and supportive community that values collegiality, teamwork and mutual respect.

TU Delft offers a stimulating academic environment with strong attention to mentoring, work–life balance and personal development, embedded in the Academic Career Track and supported by career coaching.

Job requirements

• You hold a PhD in Aerospace Engineering specifically.
• You have experience in aeronautical structural design. You have a holistic view on the airframe of the entire aircraft. Furthermore, you have also experience in or affinity with sustainability and/or life cycle thinking; you are not expected to be an expert in both areas from the outset.
• You are motivated to develop a research profile with clear societal relevance, supported by collaboration and mentoring.
• You enjoy teaching and supervising students and value an inclusive, supportive and coaching approach.
• You like working together with colleagues in multidisciplinary teams and contributing to a positive academic culture.
• You communicate effectively in English; willingness to learn Dutch is appreciated and supported.

If you feel motivated by this role but do not meet every requirement, we warmly encourage you to apply. We recognize that academic careers develop in different ways, and we value potential, curiosity and commitment alongside experience.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Aerospace Engineering
The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe.

When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab—into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace, assisted by an active Diversity & Inclusion team. This includes tangible support such as funding for extra personnel for family and caregiving responsibilities, mentoring programmes, and initiatives that promote cultural exchange and integration.

You don’t just join our faculty — you join a community where you can thrive, grow, and help shape the future of aerospace.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.