Phd Position Modelling of Monopile Decommissioning for Offshore Wind Applications

**PhD Position Modelling of Monopile Decommissioning for Offshore Wind Applications**:
**_Are you passionate about offshore engineering and advanced numerical modelling? Join us at TU Delft for a cutting-edge PhD project on efficient decommissioning of offshore monopile foundations._**

**Job description**:
The decommissioning of offshore monopile foundations is an emerging challenge as the first generation of offshore wind farms nears the end of its operational life. This project aims to develop and validate advanced modelling approaches to simulate the physical processes associated with monopile extraction, with particular emphasis on the dynamics of soil-structure interaction and a deeper understanding of cyclic soil behaviour.
The appointed researcher will explore different decommissioning strategies and develop numerical models to investigate the mechanical response of the soil-pile system under various removal scenarios. These models will be calibrated and validated using available experimental and field data. The outcomes will provide key insights into safe, efficient, and cost-effective decommissioning strategies and will contribute to circular economy approaches in the offshore wind sector.

***Key Responsibilities**:

- Advance the understanding of the mechanics behind monopile decommissioning, including vibratory extraction techniques.
- Develop and implement advanced computational models to simulate monopile removal processes.
- Investigate the influence of decommissioning parameters—such as method, loading frequency and amplitude, and soil conditions—on extraction performance.
- Potentially contribute to the design of a testing programme focused on monopile extraction and validation of modelling results. Publish research findings in leading peer-reviewed journals and present results at international conferences.**Job requirements**:

- MSc degree in Civil Engineering, Applied Mechanics, or a related field.
- Strong background in numerical modelling and soil-structure interaction.
- Experience with FEM packages (e.g. PLAXIS, Abaqus, OpenSees) is desirable.
- Programming experience (e.g. Python, MATLAB) is a plus.
- Good communication skills and ability to work independently in an international research environment.

**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.

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.

& Geosciences.

***Conditions of employment**:
The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.

**Additional information**:
**Application procedure**:

- CV
- Motivational letter

**Please note**:

- A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.
- Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.
- Faculty/Department: Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences
- Salary range: €2901 - €3707
- Hours per week: 32-40
- FTE: 1,0
- Submission is possible until: 20 May 2025
- ID job: 2131