Postdoctoral Researcher in Geophysical Subsurface Imaging and AI at University of Twente

The University of Twente, Faculty ITC, aims to enhance gender diversity within its staff. As part of this initiative, we prioritize the selection of women candidates throughout the recruitment process. Your challenge involves addressing the impact of changing environmental conditions on geophysical observations, which is crucial for applications in infrastructure management, environmental monitoring, climate adaptation, and sustainable urban development.

The Role

You will develop and implement advanced methods for subsurface characterization by integrating geophysical sensing, physical modeling, and artificial intelligence. Your responsibilities will include:

Designing and conducting research using geophysical techniques such as Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), seismic, and electromagnetic methods.
Analyzing and integrating geophysical datasets to characterize subsurface structures, buried infrastructure, and material properties.
Developing and applying AI and machine learning techniques for signal processing, image analysis, data fusion, and prediction.
Creating physics-informed and hybrid AI models that merge geophysical knowledge with data-driven approaches.
Contributing to the development of dynamic digital twins for subsurface monitoring, forecasting, and decision support.
Collaborating with researchers and external stakeholders, publishing results in leading journals, and presenting findings at international conferences.

This project offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of geophysics, AI, and digital twinning, contributing to next-generation technologies for understanding and managing the subsurface. This position is part of the national Sectorplan Earth and Environmental Sciences (AMW) program, focusing on strategic research investments in climate resilience, environmental monitoring, and sustainable infrastructure management.

Requirements

A PhD in Geophysics, Applied Geophysics, Earth Sciences, Engineering Geology, Civil Engineering, Remote Sensing, or a related field.
Experience with geophysical sensing or imaging techniques (e.g., GPR, seismic methods, ERT, EM methods).
Proven experience in quantitative data analysis and scientific programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB, R, or similar).
A strong publication record relative to career stage.
Excellent communication and scientific writing skills in English.
Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative and interdisciplinary team.
An enthusiastic researcher who enjoys merging scientific innovation with practical applications.

Nice to Have

Experience in seismic imaging, inversion, migration, or advanced geophysical interpretation.
Knowledge of GPR applications and signal processing.
Proficiency in image and signal processing for geophysical datasets.
Familiarity with machine learning or deep learning applied to geoscience and subsurface characterization.
Experience in geological scenario modeling, uncertainty quantification, or predictive subsurface modeling.
Skills in data fusion and integration of multiple sensing techniques.
Knowledge of digital twins, environmental process modeling, or infrastructure monitoring applications.

The ideal candidate will possess a robust background in geophysical imaging and data analysis, complemented by an interest in emerging AI methodologies. You should be curious, collaborative, and motivated to develop innovative solutions for complex subsurface challenges. The scientific core of the project focuses on advancing geophysical imaging and interpretation, with outcomes aimed at enhancing climate-resilient infrastructure management and environmental monitoring.

What We Offer

A stimulating international research and academic environment with access to innovative experimental facilities.
A dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues where internationalization is a key part of the strategic agenda.
A full-time position for three years.
A gross monthly salary ranging from €4,251.00 to €5,760.00, depending on experience and qualifications (UFO profile Researcher 4).
An 8% holiday allowance of the gross annual salary and an 8.3% year-end bonus.
Assistance in applying for the 30% ruling (a potential tax deduction for foreigners).
Excellent support for research and facilities for professional and personal development.
A solid pension scheme.
A total of 41 holiday days per year for full-time employment.
Excellent working conditions, an exciting scientific environment, and a vibrant green campus.
Free access to sports facilities on campus.

Application Process

For more information, please contact Prof Dr M. van der Meijde (email: m.vandermeijde@utwente.nl) or Dr Ir L.L. Olde Scholtenhuis (email: l.l.oldescholtenhuis@utwente.nl). You are also invited to visit our homepage.

Please submit your application before 1 November 2026, including:

A motivation letter (maximum 2 A4 pages) clearly highlighting your specific interest, qualifications, and motivation for applying for this position.
A detailed CV with the contact details of at least one reference person.
A brief description of your PhD thesis.

Applications lacking the above information will not be considered. Interviews will take place on 16 and/or 17 November 2026. Screening is part of the selection procedure. For questions about working and living in the Netherlands, please refer to the official website of the Dutch Government or the Expat Center East Netherlands website.

About The Department

The research will be conducted at the University of Twente FieldLab, a unique experimental facility designed for both controlled and real-world subsurface investigations. The FieldLab provides instrumented test sites, advanced geophysical monitoring capabilities, semi-controlled hydrological conditions, and opportunities to study environmental dynamics over time.

The project integrates expertise from geophysics, engineering, environmental sciences, and artificial intelligence, fostering an excellent environment for interdisciplinary research and collaboration. This position is jointly hosted by the Department of Geosciences (faculty ITC) and the Department of Civil Engineering and Management (faculty ET) at the University of Twente. The Department of Geosciences is internationally recognized for its research on subsurface characterization, Earth observation, geophysics, geoinformatics, and sustainable management of natural resources. The Department of Civil Engineering and Management contributes expertise in infrastructure systems, asset management, digitalization, and data-driven approaches for monitoring and decision support in the built environment. Together, the two departments provide a highly interdisciplinary research environment at the intersection of geoscience, engineering, artificial intelligence, and digital twins.

About The Organisation

The Faculty of Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation (ITC) offers international postgraduate education, research, and project services in the field of geo-information science and earth observation. Our mission is capacity development, where we apply, share, and facilitate the effective use of geo-information and earth observation knowledge and tools to address global challenges. Our goal is to empower our partners worldwide to track and trace the impact and shifting causes of today's global issues. Our vision is a world where researchers, educators, and students collaborate across disciplines and geographies with governmental and non-governmental organizations, institutes, businesses, and local populations to overcome complex global challenges and contribute to sustainable, equitable, and digital societies.