Research of the Hydrology and Environmental Hydraulics Group
Within the Hydrology and Environmental Hydraulics Group, our research program comprises five main lines, each with a unique lens through which we investigate the intricate world of water. These research areas, while diverse, converge to deepen our understanding of catchment-scale hydrological processes and river basin water management.
Our 5 research lines
- Hydrometeorology
- Hydrogeology
- Catchment and Land Surface Hydrology
- Environmental Fluid Mechanics
- Riverine and Plastic Transport
Hydrological research: The Pursuit of Knowledge and Solution
Our research extends beyond the theoretical. We emphasize the development of physically-based and conceptual models to explore surface and subsurface flow processes. These models are crucial for comprehending the hydrological system and its components, especially as we study the effects of climate change, land-use change, and other human influences on catchment water balances.
In our quest to enhance model calibration and validation, we employ advanced (geo-)statistical data mining techniques. We harness mathematical tools like neural networks, non-linear optimization procedures, disaggregation techniques, and data assimilation. These tools enable us to investigate floods and droughts within river basins with greater precision.
Environmental Hydraulics
River hydraulics and morphology form another core aspect of our research, intricately intertwined with hydrological modeling. These studies support sustainable river and land management planning, bridging theory and practice. To put our theories into practice, we have a fully-equipped Laboratory for Water and Sediment Dynamics where model studies can be performed.
Our reach extends far and wide, from the Netherlands to international research basins in Indonesia, Germany, and the USA. Fieldwork is the backbone of our investigations, supporting hydrologic, hydrogeologic, and hydraulic process studies. These endeavors are essential for advancing physically-based and conceptual catchment models, as well as for testing new modeling and management algorithms.
Join us on this scientific journey, as we explore the intricate world of water and seek innovative solutions to the pressing challenges of our time. Together, we shape the future of hydrology and water management.