EngD position: Standardizing Fieldwork and Data Management for Utility Mapping

• • Vacancies • EngD position: Standardizing Fieldwork and Data Management for Utility MappingTo vacancy overviewApply now • • • • • ETEngDEngD position: Standardizing Fieldwork and Data Management for Utility MappingDevelop fieldwork protocols and data management processes based on long-term systematic collection of geophysical data from UT FieldLab’s Utility Mapping Site Reliable information concerning underground infrastructure are crucial for safe excavation, asset management, and the digital evolution of the subsurface sector. Utility owners and contractors are progressively relying on Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and other non-destructive sensing technologies. While further automation of the data processing for these tools is possible, a systematic approach to the collection and archiving of reusable geophysical data is currently missing. Consequently, researchers and developers have limited data – inhibiting development of AI models for utility detection.Apply now • Hi! Are you my new colleague?Peter Chemweno • Hi! Are you my new colleague?Christopher Balfe • Hi! Are you my new colleague?Mina Shahi • Hi! Are you my new colleague?Tjerkje Dijkstra • Hi! Are you my new colleague?Suzanne Hulscher • Hi! Are you my new colleague?Anouk Bomers • Hi! Are you my new colleague?Floriana Anselmucci • Hi! Are you my new colleague?Mark Vlutters • • • • • • • • Key takeaways • Hours 38 hr. • Salary indicationSalary gross/monthly based on full-time € 3,173 • Deadline 27 Nov 2026 In this EngD project, you will design a standardized protocol for fieldwork and data handling of GPR measurements at the University of Twente’s Utility Mapping Site (UMS). The UMS provides an ideal environment for testing and evaluating utility detection technologies. While various GPR systems exist, a method for systematically collecting, documenting, and comparing measurement data is lacking. You will outline measurement procedures, key metadata, and performance indicators to maintain consistent measurements across different systems and environmental settings. By following this protocol, you will conduct measurement campaigns and help develop a benchmark dataset. This dataset supports the evaluation of GPR systems used in utility mapping and future data-driven innovations in that field. Your environment This project is part of the ZoARG programme, a collaborative initiative aimed at minimizing excavation damage to underground infrastructure in the Netherlands. You will work within a multidisciplinary environment that includes: • The University of Twente’s Departments of Civil Engineering and Management (CEM) and Applied Earth Sciences (AES) • The Utility Mapping Site (UMS) at the UT FieldLab • Industry collaborators involved in the ZoARG programme What you will do • Develop a consistent approach for conducting Ground Penetrating Radar measurements at the Utility Mapping Site • Build a data management protocol for the collection, storage and documentation of GPR measurement data • Establish pertinent measurement conditions and metadata needed to conduct detailed comparison of GPR systems • Plan and complete repeated field measurement campaigns using different GPR systems • Develop and sustain a well-organized benchmark dataset for utility mapping research • Work in close partnership with infrastructure owners, contractors, technology providers, and researchers engaged in the ZoARG programme • Report findings and translate results into practical recommendations for measurement practice and technology evaluation Your profile • A Master's degree or equivalent experience in Civil Engineering, Geomatics, Geoinformation Science, Spatial Engineering, or a related field • Familiarity with underground infrastructure, utility mapping, and geospatial data collection • Curiosity about developing measurement procedures, data protocols and benchmark datasets • Experience with GIS, surveying, spatial data processing or related geomatics technologies • A curiosity about fieldwork and experimental data collection • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills • The ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with academic and industrial partners • Excellent communication skills and proficiency in English Our offer • Two-year full-time EngD position, where scientific and research domains are combined optimally with education and practical implementation of innovative design • Full status as an employee at the UT, including pension and health care benefits • A tailor-made post-master build programme that has an educational component (40%) as well as a design project (60%) • A gross monthly salary of €3173 • An annual holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, and an annual year-end bonus of 8.3% • Minimum of 29 holidays per year in case of full-time employment • A work environment on a green and lively campus with (free access) to sports and leisure facilities • Mentorship that supports your professional and personal growth • Upon finishing the programme, you will be awarded a certified degree. You can use the academic title EngD and register as a Technological Designer in the Dutch registry of the Royal Institution of Engineers in the Netherlands (KIVI). Information and application Submit your application by 27 November 2026. Your application must include: • A recent CV detailing relevant academic and (if applicable) professional experience • A motivation letter (max. 1.5 pages) explaining your interest and relevant background for this project • An overview of your MSc degree: including thesis title, abstract, and grade list For questions about the project or your eligibility, please contact the selection committee at: l.l.oldescholtenhuis@utwente.nl or r.b.a.terhuurne@utwente.nl. Selected candidates will be invited for an (online) interview with the academic supervisors. Interviews will take place on 11 and 18 December. Starting date of this position is in the first half of 2027. Preferred candidates will proceed to a matching interview with the project steering committee. Screening is part of the procedure. Apply nowShare this vacancy • • • • About the organisation At the Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET), we work on engineering for impact: developing smart, sustainable, human-centred and technological solutions for societal challenges. We connect fundamental education, research and practice across five core domains: Asset & Maintenance engineering, Intelligent Manufacturing Systems, Personalised Health Technology, Resilience Engineering, and Sustainable Production, Energy and Resources. We work on education and research in mechanical engineering, civil engineering and industrial design engineering. Together, we learn by making, creating, and innovating, addressing challenges in a solution-oriented way. Quality, connection and inclusivity are the foundation of our culture. In our open community, students, researchers and staff collaborate with industrial and societal partners. This enables us to develop insights, applications and solutions that add value to society. Want to know moreScholtenhuis, L.L. olde (Léon) Associate ProfessorScholtenhuis, L.L. olde (Léon) Associate ProfessorDo you have questions about this vacancy? Then you can contact Léon for all substantive questions about this position and the application procedure. For general questions about working for the UT, please refer to the chatbot.ContactPhone:+31534896857Email:l.l.oldescholtenhuis@utwente.nl How to applyStep 1Apply. When you see a vacancy that appeals to you, you can apply online. We ask you to upload a CV and motivation letter and/or list of publications. You will receive a confirmation of receipt by e-mail.Apply nowStep 2Selection. The selection committee will review your application and you will receive a response within 2 weeks after the vacancy has been closed.Step 31st interview. The 1st (online or in person) meeting serves as an introduction where we introduce ourselves to you and you to us. You may be asked to give a short presentation. This will be further explained in the invitation.Step 42nd interview. In the second interview, we will further discuss the job content, your skills and your talents.Step 5The offer. If the conversations are positive, you will be made a suitable offer. If applicable, we will sign you up for screening. Your Colleagues • Scholtenhuis, L.L. olde (Léon)Personal page • Huurne, R.B.A. ter (Ramon)Personal page • Doree, A.G. (Andre)Personal page About The Faculty ETCurious about what the Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) stands for? Check out the ET website for more information.Go to the ET websiteA job that mattersCreate new opportunities for yourself, your colleagues and our society. 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