PhD student Advancing Digital Twin Technology for Integrated Road Asset and Safety Management

BackgroundThe PhD position will be hosted by the Transportation Research Institute (IMOB) at Hasselt University, a leading center for innovative research in mobility, road safety, and sustainable transportation. IMOB’s multidisciplinary team integrates expertise in engineering, behavioral sciences, and data analytics, utilizing advanced tools like driving simulators and digital twins to address real-world challenges. The candidate will join a dynamic team with extensive experience in collaborative EU projects, benefiting from cutting-edge facilities, a strong international network, and opportunities for professional development.This research aligns closely with IMOB’s mission to advance road safety and infrastructure management, ensuring impactful contributions to the field.
Job contentUHasselt is offering a PhD position as part of an EU-unded project focused on advancing road safety and infrastructure management through digital twin technology and cost-effective road safety interventions.In collaboration with leading European institutions, this project involves developing, testing, and evaluating solutions that enhance road safety. The PhD research will focus on creating and implementing digital twins to improve infrastructure, developing and assessing low-cost interventions using simulations and real-world pilots, and integrating road asset and safety management with performance indicators. Key tasks include designing advanced digital twins for predictive analytics, testing interventions in simulated environments (e.g., driving simulators), implementing real-world pilot plans, and conducting comprehensive cost-benefit analyses to assess intervention viability and impact.The expected outcomes include enhanced digital twin methodologies, improved understanding of intervention effectiveness, and innovative approaches to integrated safety and asset management. One of the project’s key applications is the creation of a digital twin—a virtual replica of real-world environments that will allow children to learn about traffic safety in a context-sensitive setting. This digital twin replicates actual environments, enabling children to recognize their surroundings and practice safe behaviors in a controlled digital space. The successful candidate will conduct independent PhD research, publish findings, and contribute to a robust evaluation framework, focusing on short- to long-term social and safety impacts, especially for vulnerable road users.
Profile
– Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Computer Science, (or equivalent)
– Strong analytical skills with experience in data analysis, simulations, or digital twin modeling
– Strong programming skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB)
– Familiarity with microsimulation software or driving simulators is preferred.
– Excellent communication skills in English and ability to work in an interdisciplinary, international environment.
– Proven capacity to undertake research
– High level of proficiency in English: Proof of English language proficiency at a Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level of C1 through internationally recognized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL or an MSc degree in English.
OfferYou will be appointed and paid as PhD student.PhD fellowship for 2 x 2 years with mid-term evaluation.
Selection procedureYou can only apply online up to and including 08 January 2025.The selection procedure consists of a preselection based on application file, an introductory interview and an in-depth interview (with assignment).Please attach a detailed CV, with information on your English language proficiency. Also include a motivation letter (1 page) and the contact details of 2-3 references.
Further informationProf. dr. ir. Ali PIRDAVANI, +32-11-292183, [email protected] questions about the selection procedure, please email [email protected].