PhD Position in Physics

Utrecht University

Faculty: Faculty of Geosciences
Department: Department of Physical Geography
Hours per week: 36–40
Application Deadline: 22 February 2026

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Department of Physical Geography at Utrecht University is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate with a background in hydrology, earth system science, atmospheric science, agroecology, or related fields.

The successful candidate will work on the project:
“Physics-informed AI-modelling of land surface processes in a global hydrological model”, part of a large international initiative to improve the modelling of global water resources.

RESEARCH CONTEXT

Water resources are overexploited in many areas, leading to depletion and deterioration of aquifers, reservoirs, and rivers. This increases pressure on remaining resources and exacerbates water scarcity. The Department has developed the PCR-GLOBWB global hydrology and water resources model to analyse these challenges.

As a PhD candidate, you will:

  • Improve the land surface representation of PCR-GLOBWB by including new soil and vegetation modules and an energy balance

  • Use AI-based surrogates to accelerate calculations and enable better calibration of land-surface modules to observations

  • Improve drought response modelling of vegetation in PCR-GLOBWB

  • Validate model improvements with local and remotely sensed observations

  • Conduct sensitivity analyses throughout the process

Training: About 20% of your time will be dedicated to training, including participation in Bachelor and Master programs at Utrecht University.

CANDIDATE PROFILE

Required Qualifications:

  • MSc degree in hydrology, earth system science, computer science, atmospheric science, agroecology, or related discipline by the start date

Preferred Skills/Experience:

  • Interest in global water issues and Earth system modelling

  • Strong quantitative skills (spatial data analysis, hydrological modelling, AI-based methods)

  • Experience with programming languages (e.g., Python)

  • Motivation to cooperate in a diverse, multidisciplinary research team

  • Strong social and communication skills

  • Fluency in spoken and written English

We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

  • Position: 1.0 FTE, initial 1-year contract with extension to 4 years upon successful assessment

  • Gross monthly salary: €3,059–€3,881 (full-time, salary scale P, CAO NU)

  • 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus

  • Pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, flexible employment conditions

Utrecht University offers additional schemes for professional development, leave, sports, cultural activities, and tailored employment conditions.

ABOUT THE FACULTY & DEPARTMENT

The Faculty of Geosciences studies Earth processes and sustainability, with 3,400 students and 720 staff. The Department of Physical Geography conducts research on Earth systems from mountains to seas, hosting PhD students, researchers, and lecturers. Facilities include Geolab, Earth Simulation Lab, and High-Performance Computing infrastructure.

LOCATION

Utrecht Science Park, Utrecht, Netherlands – centrally located with excellent transport links and vibrant city life, including historical canals, cafés, shops, and cultural amenities.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Required Documents:

  • Curriculum Vitae, including relevant courses

  • Academic credentials (mark sheets and degree statements)

  • Letter of motivation

Reference letters are not required for the initial application; referees will be contacted if shortlisted.

Interviews: Tuesday, 10 March 2026
Preferred Start Date: 1 April 2026

Visa/Work Permit: International candidates require at least 4 months for processing, coordinated with Utrecht University’s International Service Desk (ISD).

Online application only; email submissions will not be accepted.

Deadline: 22 February 2026

For informal inquiries: Prof. Dr Marc Bierkens – m.f.p.bierkens@uu.nl

Apply