Standardizing Fieldwork and Data Management for Utility Mapping

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, * 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)., * 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.

• 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