TRANSCEND

The TRANSCEND Doctoral Network focuses on strengthening the resilience of transport infrastructure against both natural and human-induced disruptions. It addresses global challenges such as extreme weather events, resource scarcity, and geopolitical uncertainties, aiming to transform how transport systems are planned, operated, and maintained. By bringing together top academic institutions, industry leaders, and governmental organizations from across Europe and beyond, TRANSCEND combines advanced research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and practical applications to develop innovative solutions. The program will train 14 Doctoral Candidates (DCs) through a structured curriculum that focuses on mitigation, adaptation, sustainability, and governance strategies. The key objectives of TRANSCEND are: - Designing risk-based frameworks integrating digital twin technologies for predictive maintenance of roads, railways, and ports. - Advancing sustainability by optimizing the use of low-carbon materials and integrating lifecycle thinking. - Developing dynamic response strategies for evacuation and recovery during crises. - Enhancing urban mobility by addressing vulnerabilities and fostering adaptive planning and design. TRANSCEND utilizes tools such as hazard modelling, vulnerability analysis, system dynamics, and machine learning to address shortcomings in current resilience approaches. The program integrates expertise from various disciplines, including materials science, environmental engineering, social sciences, and digital technologies. By prioritizing open science, interdisciplinary training, and collaboration with industry, TRANSCEND, besides tackling current challenges, it ensures the long-term resilience of transport systems. The initiative aligns with key global policies, including the European Green Deal and the UN Sustainable Development Goals and prepares a new generation of researchers to drive advancements in resilient infrastructure.