PhD Position in Digital Concrete: Ghent University’s Department of Structural Engineering and Building Materials is offering a PhD scholarship focused on innovative research in digital concrete fabrication, particularly involving magneto-activated encapsulation for enhanced sustainability and performance.
PhD Position in Stiffening Control of Digital Concrete
Designation
PhD Student (Doctoral Fellow)
Table of Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Research Area | Digital Concrete Technology and Structural Engineering |
| Location | Ghent University, Belgium |
| Eligibility/Qualification | Master’s degree in Structural, Civil, or Materials Engineering (or related field) |
| Duration | 48 months |
| Start Date | As soon as a suitable candidate is found, expected by 15 February 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 31 January 2026 |
Research Area
The research will investigate digital concrete fabrication techniques and their impact on sustainability, focusing on the utilization of magneto-activated microcapsules to control stiffening properties in concrete.
Location
This position is based at Ghent University, Belgium, within the Department of Structural Engineering and Building Materials, collaborating with institutions such as ETH Zurich.
Eligibility/Qualification
Applicants should possess:
- A Master’s degree in Structural, Civil, or Materials Engineering (or a related MSc).
- Knowledge of concrete technology, with 3D printing experience considered advantageous.
- Independent working style and well-developed social skills for interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Strong motivation for scientific research and obtaining a PhD.
- Excellent English language proficiency (both written and verbal).
Description
The selected candidate will contribute to a project funded by the Research Foundation – Flanders, focused on understanding and improving the sustainability of digital concrete. The project involves three work packages:
- Evaluating the magneto-response of microcapsules.
- Focusing on the release of encapsulated accelerators for enhanced buildability.
- Analyzing the delayed release effect on interlayer bonding and structural performance.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following documents:
- A personal motivation letter and CV.
- Copies of degree certificates and transcripts.
- Copies of degree projects and previous publications (if any).
- Proof of English language skills.
- Two recommendation letters or contact details of two referees.
All applications should be sent via email to kim.vantittelboom@ugent.be with the subject line “PhD student – Stiffening control of digital concrete using magneto-activated encapsulation.”
Last Date to Apply
The last date for applications is 31 January 2026.
For further information, please contact Prof. Kim Van Tittelboom at kim.vantittelboom@ugent.be or call +32(0)9/264 55 40.
