Thesis Research: Soil Moisture and Trees

Trees play a crucial role in the urban water system: they provide shade, retain water, and stimulate evaporation. At the same time, tree roots and interception determine how much precipitation actually reaches and infiltrates the soil. How tree species, root depth, and soil structure precisely influence this is not yet sufficiently known - and that is what you will be working on.

Location: Amstelveen

• Investigate how strongly trees influence the infiltration of precipitation into the soil;

• Analyze the effect of different tree species on the soil moisture content in the top layer;

• Conduct literature research into the influence of trees on soil moisture, infiltration, and groundwater recharge;

• Place soil moisture sensors and monitor precipitation and infiltration during the practical phase;

• Analyze measurement results and compare them with findings from the literature.

• A literature study on the influence of trees on soil moisture, infiltration, and groundwater recharge;

• A measurement protocol for monitoring soil moisture, precipitation, and infiltration;

• A comparison of soil moisture development across different tree species;

• Practical recommendations for the design of climate-adaptive and water-robust green spaces.

We are looking for a student who:

• Has an interest in hydrology, ecology, soil science, and climate adaptation;

• Has an affinity for field measurements and data analysis;

• Can work independently and can interpret research results;

• Has experience with Excel, Python, R, or similar analysis tools (preferred).

• Social: Together you achieve more. You are involved, know how to connect people, and are open to other perspectives. You find it important to work in an environment where collaboration, fun, and respect are central;

• Pragmatic: You love to get stuck in and look for solutions that actually work. No endless theoretical stories, but concrete results that benefit the client and the environment;

• Entrepreneurial: You have courage and see opportunities where others might see obstacles. You think ahead, dare to propose new ideas, and take initiative to shape the future.

• Guidance by experienced specialists from Team Groundwater;

• Practical experience at a leading engineering firm;

• Room for your own input and research direction;

• Insight into the translation of research into practice;

• Internship allowance in accordance with the guidelines of Aveco de Bondt.

Has your interest been piqued? Come and meet us! Contact Jasper ten Wolde (Corporate Recruiter) jtenwolde@avecodebondt.nl, or use the "Apply directly" button.