PhD on Nature-based design using tube-building polychaete Lanice worms

The Sediment Mechanics Research Unit of the Hydraulics & Geotechnics Section of the Dept. of Civil Engineering is specialized in developing new physics-based process models to improve the prediction of numerical models for hydrodynamic and bio-geomorphodynamic applications in water resources engineering, including the interaction with living organisms (vegetation, benthic species, plankton, etc.). These models are used a.o. for studies on climate resilience of coastal areas, the design of nature-based solutions and the dispersal of particulate matter (sediments and plastic litter).

We are looking for a motivated candidate to apply for a PhD position focusing on numerical modelling of varying processes present at sub-intertidal areas along sand dominated coasts. The core challenges are threefold; (1) study and develop a new friction law able to represent the impact of tube structures present in biogenic reefs on flow and sediment transport using a high-resolution numerical model (Mixt3SedFOAM); (2) upscale the high-resolution model results onto a 2D-depth-averaged coastal engineering model (TELEMAC2D-GAIA) and (3) apply this new model framework to study the impact of Lanice conchilega reefs on the near-shore sediment balance and specific areas of interests along the Belgian North Sea Coast. Measured data for validation will be generated by lab experiments and field campaigns.

The candidate will work on the VLAIO/Blue Cluster funded Strategic Basic Research project Coastbuster – LANICE (2024-2028), consisting of a consortium with ILVO (coordinator), VLIZ and Flanders Hydraulics. The project provides funding for a full duration of 4 years (the usual funding period for completing a PhD in Belgium).

Project

Climate change has various effects on marine sediments, for example, coastal sediments may experience increased erosion, which can have cascading impacts on the broader marine ecosystem, including on benthic habitats. In turn causing alterations in food webs, and potential implications for carbon sequestration. This change drives the creation of innovative technologies, embracing sustainable practices, and constructing resilient infrastructures, with a particular emphasis on Nature inspired Designing (NID). Therefore, the aim of the project is to acquire valuable insights into the efficient implementation of soft-sediment marine species (with a pelagic larvae phase) (like Lanice conchilega) into a NID in marine infrastructure projects, specifically tailored to the industry’s needs. By doing so, we will be able to expand the range of options available to meet theirClimate change has various effects on marine sediments, for example, coastal sediments may experience increased erosion, which can have cascading impacts on the broader marine ecosystem, including on benthic habitats. In turn causing alterations in food webs, and potential implications for carbon sequestration. This change drives the creation of innovative technologies, embracing sustainable practices, and constructing resilient infrastructures, with a particular emphasis on Nature inspired Designing (NID). Therefore, the aim of the project is to acquire valuable insights into the efficient implementation of soft-sediment marine species (with a pelagic larvae phase) (like Lanice conchilega) into a NID in marine infrastructure projects, specifically tailored to the industry’s needs. By doing so, we will be able to expand the range of options available to meet their NID requirements, by means of ecosystem engineers, thus empowering the industry with enhanced knowledge and strategies. The tube building polychaete, Lanice conchilega (or sand mason worm) will be our focus species, as it can be used in NID as an ecosystem engineer that stabilizes the sediment and increases biodiversity. They tend to occur in dense, patchy aggregations from the intertidal zone to 1000m depth in the North-East Atlantic region. Specifically in shallow intertidal areas L. conchilega patches can alter water flow and waves leading to stabilization of the sediment bed. These local changes induced by L. conchilega create distinct micro habitats in an otherwise uniform landscape, which results in increased faunal diversity. Therefore, this species is an interesting target species to be included in NID projects for several purposes. In the Coastbusters-LANICE project, we will focus on sediment stabilizing and biodiversity enhancing functions at the low water line, as it allows for conducting the measurements in a cost-efficient way.

Profile

Offer

We offer an open, stimulating and multi-disciplinary research environment.
The candidate will start with a 1-year contract that will be renewed yearly, after positive evaluation, up to maximum 4 years. The candidate should have obtained excellent results in his/her bachelor and master training. Proficiency in English is required. During the PhD project, the candidate is expected to contribute to some teaching assignments (e.g. supervision of exercise and/or lab sessions and/or master thesis students).
The salary and appointment terms are consistent with the general rules at Leuven University. Further general information on working at KU Leuven is found under
https://www.kuleuven.be/personeel/jobsite/en/phd/phd-candidates
https://admin.kuleuven.be/personeel/english/international_staff/index
Hydraulics & Geotechnics Section (Dept. of Civil Engineering)

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. ir. Erik Toorman, tel.: +32 16 32 16 59, mail: erik.toorman@kuleuven.be or Prof. dr. Christian Schwarz, tel.: +32 16 32 64 27, mail: christian.schwarz@kuleuven.be.

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.