Build the next generation of railway track health assessment. Railway bridges and the tracks they support are critical components of the railway network, directly affecting safety, reliability, and operational performance. As railway infrastructure ages and traffic demands increase, there is a growing need for innovative methods to continuously assess track condition and predict deterioration. This PhD project addresses this challenge by developing a novel 'Health Passport' system for railway tracks on bridges, enabling data-driven condition assessment and supporting more efficient maintenance and asset management strategies.

About the Company

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology) has been training engineers for over 180 years, focusing on solutions that make a difference in various sectors, including energy, climate, and smart mobility. The Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences is dedicated to outstanding research and education in civil engineering and related fields.

The Role

You will develop a comprehensive 'Health Passport' framework that integrates monitoring data and physics-based modeling for health assessment of railway tracks on bridges, using Dutch railway infrastructure as a primary case study. The research will begin with the analysis of baseline and historical data collected from wayside sensors installed on selected instrumented railway bridges. An on-board measurement system will be designed and implemented to collect additional data for incorporation into the Health Passport.

Responsibilities

• Analyze baseline and historical data from wayside sensors on railway bridges.
• Design and implement an on-board measurement system for data collection.
• Employ advanced data analysis techniques, including synchronization and signal processing.
• Develop physics-based numerical models to simulate train-track-bridge interactions.
• Characterize the health condition of railway tracks based on vibration responses during train passages.
• Collaborate with railway industry partners and participate in discussions on research development.
• Engage in limited teaching responsibilities.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Civil, Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, Applied Mathematics/Mechanics, Computer Science, or related areas.
• Competencies in railway/bridge engineering, structural dynamics, vibration analysis, structural health monitoring, or data science.
• Programming skills in scientific computing environments such as Python or MATLAB.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with researchers and industry partners.
• Excellent command of English, both verbal and written.
• Proof of English proficiency required if applicable.

What We Offer

• A 4-year employment contract with an initial 1.5-year assessment period.
• Salary ranging from €3059 to €3881 gross per month, plus benefits.
• Enrollment in the TU Delft Graduate School with access to a supportive research environment.
• Opportunities for flexible work schedules and relocation assistance for international candidates.

If you are interested in this vacancy, please apply no later than 1 September 2026 and upload the required documents.