PhD in Programmable Biomineral Concrete Lithification

KU Leuven; Belgique; Sur place; EUR 24 000 - 32 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Health insurance

Campus facilities access

Sports facilities

Résumé du poste

KU Leuven invites applications for a First Stage Researcher (R1) position within the E.CoLith project in the Department of Civil Engineering, focusing on porous mineral scaffolds and binder-precursor systems for controlled bacterial colonization and biomineralization.

The successful candidate will pursue a four-year doctoral program, engaging in cross-disciplinary research at the interface of materials science and microbiology, with access to advanced facilities and international collaboration.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree with strong academic performance in Civil Engineering, Materials Engineering or Materials Science, Geology, Mineralogy, Geochemistry, Chemistry or Applied Chemistry, or a closely related discipline.
• Strong background in mineral-based materials, cement chemistry, mineralogy, crystallization, porous materials, biomineralization or biofabrication.
• Demonstrated research and experimental skills (e.g., Master’s thesis).
• Experience with X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis, microscopy, spectroscopy, pore-structure characterization, geochemistry is an asset.
• Interest in interdisciplinary research at the interface of materials science and microbiology; prior expertise in microbiology and construction materials not required.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

Responsabilités

• Conduct research activities within the scope of the E.CoLith project.
• Collaborate with researchers in synthetic microbiology, modelling and living-material architecture.
• Participate in the Materials and Constructions group and the wider E.CoLith consortium.
• Complete the doctoral training programme through publications, conference participation and coursework, and contribute to supervision and limited teaching activities.

Connaissances

Strong analytical skills

Excellent English communication

Independent and team player

Formation

Master’s degree in Civil Engineering or Materials Science

Outils

X-ray diffraction

Thermal analysis

Microscopy

Spectroscopy

Description du poste

KU Leuven invites applications for a First Stage Researcher (R1) position within the E.CoLith project in the Department of Civil Engineering, focusing on porous mineral scaffolds and binder-precursor systems for controlled bacterial colonization and biomineralization.

The successful candidate will pursue a four-year doctoral program, engaging in cross-disciplinary research at the interface of materials science and microbiology, with access to advanced facilities and international collaboration.