Project Overview
About the Position
Utrecht University invites applications for a postdoc applying machine learning to wind-flow prediction in coastal dunes. The project develops data-driven models of aeolian processes and wind fields in dune landscapes, supporting coastal-management questions such as dune growth, sand supply and nature-based flood defence.
The postdoc will combine field and laboratory datasets with physics-informed machine learning, build predictive models of wind-driven sand transport, and work with coastal-management partners to test the models' usefulness. The research links physical geography, fluid dynamics and data science. The appointment is a salaried postdoctoral contract under the CAO-NU collective agreement.
Candidate Profile
Applicants hold a PhD in physical geography, fluid mechanics, coastal engineering or a related field, with demonstrable skills in machine learning and processing field or wind-tunnel data. Affinity with aeolian processes and coastal systems is an advantage. The working language is English.
Highlights
- Machine learning for wind-flow prediction
- Aeolian sand transport in coastal dunes
- Physics-informed and data-driven modelling
- Nature-based coastal defence applications
- Field and wind-tunnel data integration
- Salaried postdoc under the CAO-NU agreement
Funding and Duration
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Award or position | Postdoctoral research position |
| Stipend / salary | Postdoc salary per UU scale |
| Duration | Two to three years (postdoc) |
Eligibility and Requirements
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Applicant eligibility | Worldwide |
| Academic preparation | PhD in physical geography, fluid mechanics, coastal engineering or a related field |
| Language | English proficiency required |
Application dates
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruitment status | Open |
| Deadline | 6 November 2026 |
| Location | Utrecht, Netherlands |
About Utrecht University
Utrecht University is a leading Dutch research university, consistently ranked among the top institutions in Europe. Its research and teaching span four faculties and a broad range of strategic themes, including sustainability, dynamics of youth, institutions for open societies and life sciences. PhD candidates and postdocs in the Netherlands are salaried staff members with full employment benefits under the CAO-NU collective agreement, so advertised positions are fully funded. Academic and support vacancies are published on the university's working-at portal, with clear deadlines and application instructions per position.
Official details: Read the programme or project information
Application route: Follow the official application instructions
Contact
Questions about this position, eligibility or the application process should be raised through the contact channel given on the official announcement page (see the Official Link section above). Always quote the position reference in your message so the admissions or HR team can route your enquiry quickly.
Important Notes
- Application deadline: 6 November 2026 - late or incomplete applications are normally not considered.
- Listing details were recorded from the official source at the time of publication; always confirm the latest requirements on the official page before applying.
- Prepare the documents listed in the eligibility and application sections before starting the online form - transcripts, CV and references take the longest to collect.
How to Apply
Submit your application through the official page before the deadline: 6 November 2026. Read the eligibility requirements carefully and prepare all requested documents - early applications are strongly recommended for competitive awards.
Open the official application page ↗
Application guides
- PhD Research Proposal for Europe: Structure and a Worked Example
- Applying for a PhD Without a Master's: Check the Programme Rules
Official Link
https://www.uu.nl/en/organisation/working-at-utrecht-university/jobs/postdoc-machine-learning-for-wind-flow-prediction-in-coastal-dunes
Frequently asked questions
Drawn from this listing's own record. Always confirm the details on the official source before applying.
What is the deadline for Postdoc: Machine Learning for Wind Flow Prediction in Coastal Dunes - Utrecht University, Netherlands?
The application deadline is 7 November 2026 (6 November 2026). Applications received after that date are not considered, so treat it as a hard cut-off (Europe/Amsterdam time) and leave time for references and transcripts. Closing time not specified — confirm with the provider before you leave it until the last day: the source names Europe/Amsterdam but gives no clock time.
Is Postdoc: Machine Learning for Wind Flow Prediction in Coastal Dunes - Utrecht University, Netherlands fully funded?
This is a fully funded award: tuition is covered and a living stipend is provided for the duration of the programme. Salary per CAO universities pay scales (typically €4,000–€6,000/month gross for postdocs).
Who is eligible to apply for Postdoc: Machine Learning for Wind Flow Prediction in Coastal Dunes - Utrecht University, Netherlands?
This opportunity is open to applicants worldwide. Host-country status is not a requirement, although you must still satisfy the visa rules for Netherlands. Applications are assessed by Utrecht University.
How do I apply for Postdoc: Machine Learning for Wind Flow Prediction in Coastal Dunes - Utrecht University, Netherlands?
Applications for Postdoc: Machine Learning for Wind Flow Prediction in Coastal Dunes - Utrecht University, Netherlands are submitted directly to Utrecht University through the provider's own application portal — use the Apply button on this page to open it. NextApply does not process applications or charge a fee.
Is an English proficiency test required for Postdoc: Machine Learning for Wind Flow Prediction in Coastal Dunes - Utrecht University, Netherlands?
Yes — an English-language certificate is required for this listing. Check the exact band expected on the official source, since it can differ by programme. Requirements for Netherlands are published by the provider.
What study level does Postdoc: Machine Learning for Wind Flow Prediction in Coastal Dunes - Utrecht University, Netherlands offer?
This listing is offered at Postdoctoral level. That describes the qualification on offer, not a credential you must already hold — check the provider's stated entry requirements before applying.
Hosted by
Utrecht University
Utrecht University is a leading Dutch research university, consistently ranked among the top institutions in Europe. Its research and teaching span four faculties and a broad range of strategic themes, including sustainability, dynamics of youth, institutions for open societies and life sciences. PhD candidates and postdocs in the Netherlands are salaried staff members with full employment benefits under the CAO-NU collective agreement, so advertised positions are fully funded. Academic and support vacancies are published on the university's working-at portal, with clear deadlines and application instructions per position.
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