The Department of Earth Sciences is searching for a dedicated PhD candidate with a master's degree in Earth Sciences, Civil or Hydraulic Engineering, or related fields. You will contribute to the DEEP-FLUX project, which investigates the journey of terrestrial organic carbon and microplastics to the deep ocean floor via submarine canyons.

The Role

You will engage in research focused on the mechanisms of turbidity currents, which transport significant amounts of sediment and Particulate Organic Carbon (POC) to the ocean floor, creating deposits that support life in deep-sea environments. Your work will involve conducting scaled-down laboratory experiments to understand the physical processes of transport and burial of microplastics and POC, integrating these findings into an existing computer model for sediment flux, and validating the model using monitored submarine canyons.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments to investigate mixing in turbidity currents.
• Test turbulent diffusion characteristics of microplastics and POC.
• Collaborate with a team of PhD candidates and the principal investigator.
• Contribute to model development and validation for sediment transport.

Requirements

• MSc degree in Earth Sciences, Physical Geography, Oceanography, Civil or Hydraulic Engineering, or a related discipline by the start date.
• Experience with experiments involving water and/or sediment.
• Coding skills.
• Strong communication skills in written, graphical, and oral formats.
• Creativity and curiosity.
• Proficiency in spoken and written English.

What We Offer

• A full-time position (1.0 FTE) for 1 year, extendable to a total of four years upon successful assessment.
• A gross monthly salary between €3,204 and €4,051 (salary scale P under the CAO NU).
• 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus.
• Pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, and flexible employment terms.
• Personalized training program tailored to your needs and career goals.

About Us

Utrecht University is committed to impactful research and teaching. The Faculty of Geosciences focuses on sustainable and innovative studies of the Earth, with a strong emphasis on collaboration across disciplines. Our Department of Earth Sciences conducts research in various areas, including geology, geochemistry, and hydrogeology, with access to world-class laboratories and facilities.

About Utrecht

Located in Utrecht Science Park, Utrecht is the fourth largest city in the Netherlands, known for its vibrant canals, historical center, and accessibility to public transport. The city offers a rich cultural environment and numerous amenities for residents.

For informal inquiries about this position, please contact Dr. Joris Eggenhuisen at j.t.eggenhuisen@uu.nl.

Apply Now

We encourage applications from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Please apply using the 'apply now' button, including your CV and a motivation letter addressing your interest in the PhD position and project. The application deadline is October 2nd, 2026, with the position starting January 1st, 2027. Note that international candidates may require additional processing time for visas and permits.