PhD Researcher (f/m/d) – Microstructure and Performance of Low-Carbon Composite Cements

Heidelberg Materials AG; Leimen; Sur place; EUR 48 000 - 64 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

PhD with KIT

International R&D environment

State-of-the-art facilities

Industrial collaboration

Résumé du poste

Heidelberg Materials AG in Leimen, Germany, offers a PhD researcher position in collaboration with KIT to investigate the microstructure and performance of low-carbon cements. You will pursue your doctoral degree while conducting cutting-edge materials research within an international R&D team.

The project focuses on hydration products, porosity, and structure–property relationships to design stronger, more durable binders with reduced CO2.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Materials Science, Civil Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or related field.
• Strong interest in scientific research and pursuing a PhD.
• Experience with laboratory work and data analysis.
• Fluent English; German language skills are beneficial but not required.

Responsabilités

• Conduct original doctoral research in collaboration with KIT.
• Analyze and interpret scientific data to understand structure–performance relationships.
• Investigate hydration products, porosity, and microstructure development on mechanical performance.
• Evaluate effects of supplementary cementitious materials on cement properties.
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Prepare and submit your doctoral dissertation in cooperation with KIT.

Connaissances

Lab work

Data analysis

English proficiency

Independent work

Team collaboration

Formation

Master's degree (Materials Science / Civil Engineering / Chemistry / Physics)

Outils

Laboratory equipment

Description du poste

Join Heidelberg Materials and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT; German: Karlsruher Institut für Technologie) to investigate how the microstructure of modern low-carbon cements influences strength and performance. As part of our international R&D team, you will conduct cutting-edge research, publish scientific findings, and contribute to the development of more sustainable construction materials.

Your profile: Master's degree in Materials Science, Civil Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or similar Strong interest in scientific research and doctoral studies Experience in laboratory work and data analysis Fluent English

What we offer: PhD opportunity with KIT International R&D environment Research with real industrial impact Contribution to the decarbonization of the construction industry

Want to learn more about the research project? Keep reading below for additional details on the scientific background, objectives, and methodology. Help Shape the Future of Sustainable Construction Materials Are you passionate about scientific research and eager to contribute to the decarbonization of the construction industry?

As a PhD Researcher (f/m/d) – Microstructure and Performance of Low-Carbon Composite Cements, you will join Heidelberg Materials' international Research & Development team while pursuing your doctoral degree in collaboration with the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT; German: Karlsruher Institut für Technologie) . Your research will focus on next-generation low-carbon cements and explore how their microstructure influences strength, durability, and overall performance. This is a unique opportunity to combine academic excellence with real-world industrial impact and contribute to the development of more sustainable construction materials.

Your place of work will be Leimen, nearby Heidelberg, Germany.

YOUR NEXT CHALLENGE

Modern low-clinker cements are essential for reducing CO₂ emissions, but their behavior is significantly more complex than that of conventional cements. In this PhD project, you will investigate how hydration products shape the microstructure of cementitious materials and how this microstructure influences properties such as strength, stiffness, and porosity. Your work will help establish a scientific basis for designing stronger and more sustainable low-carbon binders.

Your Responsibilities

• Conduct original doctoral research in collaboration with KIT Design and perform experimental studies on modern composite cement systems
• Analyze and interpret scientific data to understand structure-performance relationships
• Investigate the influence of hydration products, pore structure, and microstructural development on mechanical performance
• Evaluate the effects of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), fillers, and key chemical parameters on cement properties
• Develop scientific methodologies and contribute to innovative research concepts
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences
• Collaborate with internal R&D experts and external academic partners
• Prepare and submit your doctoral dissertation
• Contribute to knowledge transfer between academia and industry

YOUR PROFILE

Master's degree (or equivalent) in Materials Science, Civil Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field. Strong academic record and genuine interest in scientific research. Motivation to pursue a PhD degree. Experience with laboratory work, data analysis, and scientific reporting. Knowledge of cementitious materials, construction materials, or related material systems is an advantage. Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within interdisciplinary teams. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent written and spoken English. German language skills are beneficial but not required.

OUR OFFER

• A fully integrated PhD program in cooperation with Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT; German: Karlsruher Institut für Technologie)
• The opportunity to work on cutting-edge research supporting the decarbonization of cement production
• Access to state-of-the‑art research facilities and international experts
• A collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment
• Opportunities for scientific publications, conference participation, and professional development
• The chance to create tangible impact in one of the world's most essential industries
• Shaping the future, building successes Heidelberg Materials – your springboard into the future of the construction materials industry. As a globally leading company in the construction sector, we manufacture one of the most widely used products, paving the way not only toward more sustainable production but also toward your personal success story.
• Our bold and innovative approach focuses on massive CO₂ reduction, efficient recycling technologies, and digital solutions – setting new standards for the industry.
• In our globally connected and locally rooted community, your ideas have the power to shape a better tomorrow for people.
• With us, you're not just shaping the industry's future; you're shaping your own. Let's get to work!
• Heidelberg Materials is one of the world's largest integrated manufacturers of building materials and solutions with leading market positions in cement, aggregates, and ready‑mixed concrete. We are represented in more than 50 countries with around 51,000 employees at almost 3,000 locations. At the centre of our actions lies the responsibility for the environment. As the front runner on the path to carbon neutrality and circular economy in the building materials industry, we are working on sustainable building materials and solutions for the future. We enable new opportunities for our customers through digitalisation.