Ghent University invites applications for a full-time doctoral fellowship in the Department of Structural Engineering and Building Materials, focusing on the CO2 uptake of cement-based materials. The position is embedded within the Magnel-Vandepitte Laboratory, Belgium’s largest research center for concrete technology and structures, renowned for its international recognition and advanced experimental facilities.

The DOC-CEM project aims to develop models and tools for accurately predicting the CO2 uptake of cement-based materials throughout their service life, supporting Flanders’ Fit-for-55 plan to reduce CO2 emissions. The research will address gaps in current knowledge by expanding beyond reinforced concrete and CEM I cement to include mortars, recycled concrete aggregates, fibre cement products, and modern blended cements. The project will construct a comprehensive carbonation database, validate data through experiments, and develop curing-specific prediction models. It will also analyze the effects of curing methods, material characteristics, and exposure conditions on the degree of carbonation, ultimately providing recommendations for designing materials optimized for rapid and reliable CO2 uptake.

As a doctoral fellow, you will collaborate with a postdoctoral researcher and PhD supervisors to achieve the project’s goals. Your responsibilities include constructing the carbonation database, gathering data from industry partners and literature, conducting accelerated carbonation experiments, performing CO2 uptake calculations, and investigating the impact of design and exposure conditions on various cement-based products. You will also carry out life cycle assessments, interact with international advisory committee members, and collaborate with colleagues at the University of Bath, TU Graz, and RILEM TC CUC.

Applicants should hold a Master’s degree (preferably) in civil engineering, structural engineering, materials engineering, chemistry, geology, or a related field. Essential skills include knowledge of cement chemistry, concrete technology, and durability of cementitious materials. Analytical and modelling skills (e.g., TGA, XRD, SEM-BSE, porosimetry, NMR, thermodynamic modelling) are advantageous. Candidates must demonstrate independence, organizational skills, motivation for research, strong teamwork and communication abilities, and excellent English proficiency. Willingness to commute to VITO (Mol) for experiments is required.

The fellowship offers a contract of up to 48 months, starting no earlier than March 1, 2026, with a salary at 100% of the net AAP member rate, tax-free, and determined by family status and seniority. Ghent University provides extensive staff benefits, including training opportunities, generous holiday leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers.

To apply, submit a motivation letter, CV, diplomas and certificates, transcripts, degree projects and publications, proof of English language skills, and two recommendation letters or referee contact details. Email your application to Prof. Nele De Belie at [email protected] by January 31, 2026, with the subject 'DOC-CEM PhD candidacy of [SURNAME - given name]'. Ghent University encourages applications from all backgrounds as part of its equal opportunities and diversity policy.

For further information, contact Prof. Nele De Belie ([email protected]).