The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is offering a fully funded PhD position in Sustainable and Cement-Free Marine Materials within the Department of Manufacturing and Civil Engineering, located in Gjøvik, Norway. This opportunity is part of the HAPMarine project, which aims to address the collapse of coastal ecosystems and reduce reliance on carbon-intensive, concrete-based marine infrastructure. The project focuses on pioneering circular-economy solutions by upcycling Norway's abundant calcium-rich waste streams, such as aquaculture shells and demolition concrete, into bioreceptive, low-carbon, and high-strength materials for marine infrastructure and cold-water coral reef restoration.

As a PhD candidate, you will join an international and interdisciplinary team at the forefront of sustainable blue economy innovation. Your research will involve developing and optimizing eco-friendly shell-based materials, optimizing forming conditions for high mechanical performance and bio-receptivity, conducting comprehensive material property assessments, performing numerical simulations, developing hybrid shell–concrete (geopolymer) composites, and investigating carbonation routes to enhance CO₂ capture. You will also collaborate with other researchers for field testing, leaching analysis, and ecological assessment of developed materials in both laboratory and field environments.

The position is for a period of three years, with a gross annual salary of NOK 550,800 and favorable terms as a member of the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund. Free Norwegian language training at a basic level (A2) is offered, and the employment period may be extended by 10 weeks upon completion of the language course. The position is conditional on external funding and requires physical presence at NTNU for professional and social interaction.

Applicants must hold a relevant Master's degree or equivalent in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Civil/Structural Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or similar, corresponding to a five-year Norwegian course with 120 credits at master's level. A strong academic background is required, with an average grade of B or better on NTNU's grading scale, or equivalent. Candidates with a weaker grade may be considered if they can document particular suitability for PhD education. Excellent written and oral English skills are required. Preferred qualifications include strong theory and experimental background in materials development and optimization, experience publishing in high-impact journals, extensive material characterization experience (XRD, SEM, FTIR, MIP), experience with numerical modelling (COMSOL/ANSYS), and background in green/bio-concrete or waste valorization. Personal qualities such as analytical skills, motivation, teamwork, and independence are emphasized.

NTNU is committed to diversity and inclusion, aiming to reflect the diversity in society and utilize the collective skills of the population. The university offers an open and inclusive working environment, career guidance, and follow-up during the PhD period. Gjøvik, the location of the position, is a vibrant town by Lake Mjøsa, offering a dynamic business environment, excellent schools, modern healthcare, and a variety of recreational activities, all within a setting that values work-life balance.

To apply, submit your application online in English via the provided JobbNorge link. Include CV, certificates, transcripts, diplomas, master's thesis, a 2-page project proposal on green sustainable materials for ocean or building materials, names and contact details of three referees, and relevant publications. Ensure all documentation is complete and demonstrates how you meet the criteria. Applications must be received by the deadline of 15 February 2026.

For further information about the position, contact Associate Professor Guomin Ji at [email protected]. For questions about the recruitment process, contact Kristine Rognlid Hagaseth at [email protected].