PhD Positions in Sediment Transport Detection and Estimation

Mission

The Sustainable River Engineering, Energy, and Morphodynamics (STREEM) Lab at EPFL, led by Prof. Mirko Musa, is seeking highly motivated PhD students to conduct research on river bedforms and their contribution to sediment transport. At STREEM, we conduct experimental investigations using unique hydraulic channels, state-of-the-art flow visualization techniques, and high-resolution topographic scanning

This PhD project focuses on the characterization of river bedforms (e.g., sand dunes and ripples) and their role in sediment transport. The research will aim to detect the bidimensional dynamics of bedforms and translate these observations into a quantitative understanding of 2D sediment transport. The study will involve:

1. Analysis of existing datasets and development of new algorithms for bedform detection and sediment transport estimation.
2. Development of data-informed models for predicting sediment transport based on bedform dynamics and hydrodynamic conditions.
3. Development of new experiments at the Platform for Hydraulic Constructions (P-LCH) to generate novel datasets under controlled conditions. The experiments will focus on freely forming bedforms as well as their interactions with in-stream structures, exploring the potential for controlling sediment transport dynamics.

Important: Your application should demonstrate a genuine interest in the advertised topic or the broader research themes of the lab. Generic cover letters that merely copy the text of this position or the lab's research overview will not be considered. In your cover letter, please clearly articulate why you would a strong fit for this position or for the lab in general.

Main duties and responsibilities

As a PhD Student, you will be expected to:

• Conduct research in river morphodynamics and sediment transport under the guidance of Prof. Musa.
• Have full responsibility for your own dissertation
• Design and execute laboratory experiments at P-LCH.
• Develop and apply advanced data analysis techniques to extract meaningful insights from experimental and field datasets.
• Lead and contribute to academic publications and conference presentations.
• Complete coursework as required by the doctoral program.
• Participate in lab activities, including co-supervision of MSc students and teaching assistance.

Profile

• Strong interest in hydraulic engineering, river geomorphology, and sediment transport.
• Experience or interest in data analysis and programming (e.g., MATLAB, Python).
• Familiarity with experimental methods in hydraulics is a plus.
• Self-motivated and ability to work independently as well as in a team
• Creative, enthusiastic, and willing to learn new things.
• Strong English writing and oral communication and willing to develop these skills further in an academic context
• Experience with academic research and publication is a plus

We offer

• World-class and international learning/working environment at EPFL main campus and at the internationally renowned Platform for Hydraulic Constructions (P-LCH)
• Competitive salary and excellent educational conditions
• Opportunity to perform state-of-the-art research in one of the most dynamic scientific institutions in Europe.
• Opportunity to perform hands-on activities, interfacing both experimental work and data analysis
• Opportunities to attend and present work at international conferences

Informations

  The selection process involves multiple stages, and short-listed candidates will be requested to apply to a specific EPFL Doctoral Program to qualify for a PhD at EPFL, i.e. Civil and Environmental Engineering (EDCE) and/or in Mechanics (EDME) .
Please check this page for additional information on admission. Please note that this is a separate application process necessary to be eligible to complete your PhD at EPFL.

For the application via the EPFL recruiting platform, please submit:

• a brief motivation letter (max 2 pages) with your interests and qualifications
• your detailed CV with a publication list (if applicable) and your contact information
• your bachelor and master curriculum with grades
• The names and contact information of 3 references willing to write a recommendation letter

Please ensure to submit as well an application to the Doctoral Program in Civil and Environmental Engineering (EDCE) before April 30 or in Mechanics (EDME) before April 15. Only applicants admitted to EDCE and/or EDME can be considered for this position.

Start date: as soon as possible

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Prof. Mirko Musa (mirko.musa@epfl.ch). No applications sent to this address shall be considered.

 Contract Start Date:

Activity Rate Min: 100.00

Activity Rate Max: 100.00

Contract Type: PhD Student

Duration: 4 years

Reference: 1504