Job Description
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:
[email protected] or
[email protected].
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.
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.