Postdoc position in vegetation and fluvial process dynamics

A particularly challenging problem of river ecomorphodynamics is the development of sounding equations for the riparian and river bed vegetation dynamics, and their coupling to the equations of morphodynamics. In this direction, notable both experimental and analytical work has recently been done. These advancements notwithstanding, some processes and related feedback are yet largely unknown, for example how plant roots modify the cohesion of alluvial sediment and how this effect can be translated into a physically based mathematical form. In this project, we intend to extend our previous studies by introducing in an explicit fashion the role of plant roots in controlling the riverbed erosion and uprooting processes. This will be done following up the gained experience and the actual understanding about plant uprooting by flow time scales and dynamics. Our theoretical models shall be validated against vegetation and river data from worldwide rivers and laboratory flume experiments. Then, a statistical analysis will be done in order to verify the adequacy of the proposed 1D and 2D ecomorphodynamic models in explaining observed vegetation and morphological patterns. The preferred candidate will also help supervising master and PhD students conducting experimental setup and measurement campaigns on the effects of mechanical drag on plant root growth and uprooting processes.
This project involves data analysis and analytical skills. An engineering background either on river mechanics, hydraulics or fluid mechanics and morphodynamic is required/preferred.
Applicants with experience in stability analysis, dynamical systems and stochastic process theories are particularly encouraged to apply. Working experience in mountaineering regions and/or in riverine environments is a plus.
This postdoc project will be developed at the Institute for Infrastructure and Environment of the School of Engineering of The University of Edinburgh. The desired starting date is August 2017, and the related stipend is conformal to postdoc salary rates of the School.
Collaborations with both national and international institutions are foreseen.
Applications will include a motivation letter, a detailed CV, a list of all publications as well as a letter of references.