Compared to rivers without tidal forcing, the top view of tidal channels is relatively stable on a time scale of decades. This relates to the presence of intertidal areas, which are now recognized as a nature-based measure of bank protection, and to the interplay of river discharge and the tidal motion. Towards the design of stable channels with natural embankment, this PhD project seeks to better understand the prerequisites for tidal river stability by studying the spatiotemporal variation in tidal channel migration across the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna Delta. High-complexity as well as idealized models for river channel morphodynamics will used to interpret remote sensing images and data from the field.
The PhD position is part of the NWO-VICI project “Deltas out of shape: regime changes of sediment dynamics in tide-influenced deltas”. Together with partner institutions including the Institute of Water Modelling in Dhaka and Deltares, tools will be developed to quantify the role of intertidal areas in creating channel stability and resilience against extreme events.
Closing date: 18th of February.
For more information on this position and to apply, visit the WUR website.