Internship | Data-Driven Traffic Load Modelling for Infrastructure Assessment

Replacement and renovation of (road) infrastructure play an increasingly important role in the Netherlands. To control management and maintenance costs and reduce emissions, the use of primary raw materials and efficient, effective prioritisation and assessment are required. The current approach to assessing bridges and viaducts is based on traffic load models prescribed in standards. These models are conservative, as they are intended to apply to a wide variety of bridge types and locations. That is why TNO is developing the LoadMap, which enables the derivation of location- and bridge-specific traffic loads and their effects based on load measurements and traffic intensity data.

The current version of the LoadMap uses a linear regression model to predict extreme value distributions for vehicle weights and load effects, such as moments and shear forces. Using basic parameters, such as traffic intensity, road layout, and expected vehicle composition, the results are linked to distributions derived from detailed weigh-in-motion (WIM) data. However, this data is only available at a few locations on the Dutch highway network. The regression model uncertainty is considerable when such detailed information is unavailable, and the traffic situation deviates significantly. This graduation project will therefore investigate more advanced data-driven algorithms that identify complex patterns and relationships in large datasets. Particular attention will be paid to extending the current regression framework towards more flexible surrogate modelling techniques, including neural network-based approaches that integrate multiple data sources. Such models may better capture nonlinear relationships and improve systematically as additional data becomes available. You will conduct your research within a multidisciplinary supervisory committee comprising experts in traffic loading and data-driven algorithms.

You will be part of the Risk & Reliability team, which, among other activities, focuses on reliability assessment and probabilistic modelling of civil structures, as well as the Digital Built Environment team, which focuses on combining domain knowledge with data, modelling, and decision-support skills, creating practical and innovative digital solutions that are adaptable and scalable for the future. The position is based in Delft.

Are you a Master’s student who would like to tackle this multidisciplinary problem as an MSc graduation project? We are looking for a motivated, analytically minded student who is comfortable exploring new methods and can work both independently and collaboratively with researchers from diverse disciplines. The candidate should meet the following requirements:

• Enrolled in an MSc programme in civil engineering, computational engineering, applied/technical mathematics, or a comparable field.
• Experience with programming (Python).
• Experience with or an affinity for civil structures, such as bridges and viaducts.
• Affinity for data-driven algorithms.
• Good command of English, both written and spoken.

You want an internship opportunity on the precursor of your career; an internship gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative internship environment, within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo-, hbo- and mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet other TNO professionals and join several activities, such as sports activities, (work-related) courses or the yearly ski-trip.
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity, equity and inclusion.

After the first CV selection, the application process will be conducted by the concerning department. TNO will provide a suitable internship agreement. If you have any questions about this vacancy, you can contact the contact person mentioned below.

Important to be aware of before applying:

• Before the start of the internship, the internship agreement from TNO needs to be signed. For students at a college or university based in the Netherlands, TNO uses the UNL-template (supplemented with a number of specific agreements from TNO). For students of foreign and MBO educational institutions, the TNO internship agreement applies. TNO does not sign any other internship agreements.
• Before the start of the internship, the educational institution will need to confirm in writing that:
  • 1) You are enrolled at the educational institution during the internship, and;
  • 2) The internship takes place as part of the programme of the study.
• The confirmation of educational institution takes place by signing the UNL template or forms prepared by TNO.
• Interns at TNO must be in possession of a Dutch residential address at the start of the internship. Performance of internship activities from abroad is not possible.