Abir Al-Tabbaa
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6 days ago
EPSRC FIBE3 CDT PhD Studentship with M Group: Low Whole Life Carbon Cementitious Repair Materials for Future Infrastructure University of Cambridge in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
Available
Deadline
Apr 30, 2027
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Cambridge
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About this position
This is a four-year, fully funded 1+3 MRes/PhD studentship at the University of Cambridge, supported through the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Future Infrastructure and Built Environment: Unlocking Net Zero (FIBE3 CDT) and delivered in collaboration with M Group.
The project addresses a major challenge in infrastructure sustainability: how to repair and extend the life of existing concrete assets with lower whole-life carbon materials. Many current cementitious repairs are carbon intensive and can fail prematurely due to poor material performance and durability, while climate change is likely to intensify these problems. The research will develop advanced and low-carbon cementitious repair materials, including grouts, mortars and concrete, with tailored additives and admixtures to improve resilience and service life.
The project will draw on real-world case studies from M Group, including National Highways frameworks, Lewes derailment repairs, Redbridge Causeway environmental refurbishment, and soil nailing grout applications aimed at preventing landslides. Research activities may include advanced material characterisation, mix design development, coupled thermodynamic and reactive transport modelling, accelerated ageing, mechanical and durability testing, and potentially larger-scale trials and validation.
The successful applicant should have, or expect to obtain by the start date, at least a high 2.1 degree, preferably at Masters level, in Civil Engineering, together with a strong interest in cementitious materials and experimental work. Funding is available as a fully funded studentship covering fees and maintenance for eligible home students, with a limited number of international students possibly considered later in the process.
Applications must be submitted online via the University of Cambridge Applicant Portal, quoting the project title and supervisor name. Applicants should also note the £20 application fee. Early applications are strongly encouraged, as an offer may be made before the deadline.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants should have, or expect to obtain by the start date, at least a high 2.1 degree, preferably at Masters level, in Civil Engineering and have a strong interest in cementitious materials and experimental work. Eligibility for funding is primarily for home students; a limited number of international students may be considered later.
How to apply
Apply online via the University of Cambridge Applicant Portal and state the project title and supervisor's name. Use the advertised application link for full details. Early applications are strongly encouraged, as an offer may be made before the deadline.
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Professors
Professor at University of Cambridge
United Kingdom
Research Interests
Environmental Sustainability
Structural Engineering
Civil Engineering
Environmental Science
Durability
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Prepare your application
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