OPPORTUNITY FOR A PHD THESIS IN 2026 Interactions between Riparian Vegetation and River Flows: Implications for Energy Dissipation and the Development of Nature-Based Solutions

Scientific Approach and Methodology The PhD is based on an interdisciplinary fluid–structure–ecology approach structured around three complementary components: ✓ Morpho-biomechanical characterisation Detailed measurements of the morphological and biomechanical traits of several riparian species (bending tests, tensile tests, stiffness measurements, intra- and interspecific variability). ✓ Hydraulic experiments Flume experiments using live plants and biomechanically calibrated plant models. Measurements of velocity and turbulence fields (ADV, PIV), hydrodynamic forces and plant deformation under different flow regimes. ✓ Analysis and modelling ✓ Energy-based analysis of turbulence and energy dissipation, and the development of simplified physical and numerical models linking flexibility, plant morphology and hydrodynamic effects. Scientific Environment The PhD is part of the VEG-IFS project and will be jointly supervised by the Institut Pprime (Poitiers), specialising in experimental hydrodynamics, fluid–structure interactions and metrology, and the Laboratoire d’Écologie des Hydrosystèmes Naturels et Anthropisés (LEHNA, Lyon), internationally recognised for its research in aquatic ecology and riparian vegetation. The doctoral researcher will be primarily based at the Institut Pprime, with regular research stays (a cumulative 3 to 6 months) at LEHNA. Required profile/areas of competence: hydraulics, fluid mechanics; We are seeking a candidate motivated by interdisciplinary approaches, holding a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in: - - - ecology, ecohydraulics, environmental sciences; or related disciplines. Desirable skills and qualities - - - - Prospects an interest in experimentation and/or modelling; a sound grounding in fluid mechanics and data analysis; scientific curiosity, autonomy, and an enthusiasm for interdisciplinary work; good scientific communication skills (in French and/or English). This PhD will provide fundamental advances in ecohydraulics while directly contributing to river management and restoration. It will open up opportunities in academic research, ecological engineering, environmental consultancies, and water environment management bodies.