EngD in Digitalization of Condition-Based Maintenance for Lock Complexes
Design a structural health monitoring framework for navigation locks through a two-year Engineering Doctorate.
Best for:Best for top Master's graduates in structural and mechanical engineering with an interest in asset management and sensor systems.
Overview
This two-year Engineering Doctorate (EngD) position at the University of Twente, sponsored by Rijkswaterstaat, focuses on designing a digital condition-based maintenance framework for the Hengelo Lock Complex. The work involves analyzing structural and mechanical behavior, evaluating monitoring technologies, and assessing sensor deployment strategies to enable automated structural health monitoring. The candidate will collaborate closely with both academic supervisors and industry professionals to deliver an impactful design artifact. Upon completion, the successful candidate receives a recognized Engineering Doctorate degree and registration as a Technological Designer.
What you'll do
- Analyze the structural and mechanical behavior of various lock components and their degradation mechanisms.
- Review relevant national, regional, and organizational regulations and guidelines for infrastructure maintenance.
- Evaluate current practices and feasible structural health monitoring technologies for automated assessment.
- Conduct cost-benefit assessments of sensor deployment and measurement interpretation strategies.
- Design a comprehensive framework for the structural health monitoring system of the Hengelo Lock Complex.
Requirements
Degree required: MSc in structural and mechanical engineering, structural health monitoring, monitoring systems, asset management, or related field
Degree offered: Engineering Doctorate (EngD)
Language: High professional English proficiency; working command of Dutch is highly preferred
Instruction: English
- Strong background in structural and mechanical engineering or asset management
- Ability to design innovative solutions for complex technological issues
- Capacity to work independently and take initiative in multidisciplinary teams
- Systematic working style with strong communication and social skills
- Must be willing to relocate to the vicinity of Enschede
- Must be available for daily presence at the University of Twente and the Rijkswaterstaat branch in Hengelo
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-14
Prepare your CV, a 1-page motivation letter, and your MSc degree overview including your thesis title, abstract, and grade list. Send your application package using the specified university submission instructions before the deadline.
- CV
- Motivation letter
- MSc degree overview
- Thesis abstract
- Grade list
Contact
Farid Vahdatikhaki· Selection Committee Member
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