Postdoc Research Fellow in AI-based Flood Risk Management

Passionate about flood risk management and Artificial Intelligence? Then this job is for you.

The risk of flooding is increasing in many urban areas due to climate change and other factors. Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods (aka machine learning) offer effective means to develop new methods for improved flood risk assessment and management in these areas. 
We are looking for an ambitious and enthusiastic Postdoctoral Research Fellow to do research on these topics. The successful candidate will join the Department of Water Management and the research group of Prof Zoran Kapelan. The successful candidate will be employed as part of the ongoing EU ARTIFACT project (ARTificial Intelligence for Flood resilient infrastructure; see https://ivi.ac.rs/en/project/artificial-intelligence-for-flood-resilient-infrastructure-artifact). The appointed candidate is expected to start in October 2025. 

The key responsibilities include:

• Research: Delivering high quality research by developing new AI-based methods and tools for improved flood risk management in urban areas. The focus will be on developing AI-based flood prediction / assessment models that can be used for various applications ranging from short-term flood forecasting and early warning systems to longer-term exploratory analysis and optimisation of flood proofing measures based on a mix of nature based solutions and urban drainage upgrades.
• Education: Supporting the group and the Department in the development and delivery of postgraduate taught courses with focus on urban water management, including supervising MSc students and assisting PhD students, preparing and assessing student projects and assignments. Supporting the ARTIFACT project in delivery of expert training and summer schools.

The successful candidate must have a PhD in civil / environmental engineering or equivalent degree with a knowledge of AI / machine learning methods. Researchers with computer science degree or similar will be considered too if they can demonstrate sufficient water engineering knowledge. The successful candidate should also have a track record of delivering high quality research as evidenced in publications and otherwise, independence and teamwork skills with proactive attitude to work, capacity to communicate effectively and good understanding of the higher education environment including its diversity and inclusion values. Preference will be given to candidates who have an existing track record in developing AI-based methods for water systems, especially if these are related to flood risk management. Previous experience in obtaining funding for research projects and teaching / supervising students would be welcomed too.   

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. 

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration. 

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

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. 

to go to the website of the Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences. 

• Duration of contract is 2 years.
• A job of 38-40 hours per week. 

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. 

, 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. 

31 May 2025 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• CV
• Motivational letter

Please note:

• A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.
• For the final candidates, a knowledge security check will be part of the application procedure. For more information on this check, please consult Chapter 8 of the National Knowledge Security Guidelines. We carry out this check on the basis of legitimate interest.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.