PhD Position in CO2 Uptake of Cement-Based Materials – Department of Structural Engineering and Building Materials Ghent University in Belgium

Ghent University invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in the Department of Structural Engineering and Building Materials, focusing on the CO2 uptake of cement-based materials. The successful candidate will join the renowned Magnel-Vandepitte Laboratory, Belgium’s largest research center in concrete technology and structures, internationally recognized for its expertise and state-of-the-art experimental facilities.

This doctoral project is part of the DOC-CEM initiative, which aims to develop advanced models and tools for accurately predicting the CO2 uptake of cement-based materials throughout their service life. The research aligns with the Fit-for-55 plan, supporting Flanders’ and the EU’s goals to reduce CO2 emissions and improve the environmental performance of the cement industry. The project will address gaps in current research by expanding the focus beyond reinforced concrete and CEM I cement to include mortars, recycled concrete aggregates, and shaped products, considering diverse curing processes and carbonation conditions.

Key objectives include constructing a comprehensive database for the natural carbonation of cement-based materials, validating data with replicable experiments, and developing curing-specific prediction models for the degree of carbonation (DoC). The research will also analyze the effects of design and exposure conditions on CO2 uptake in products such as sandwich panels, construction blocks, pavers, and fibre-cement products. The candidate will perform life cycle assessments, integrate data, and conduct scenario analyses to inform material design for enhanced carbon sequestration.

The PhD fellow will work closely with a postdoctoral researcher, supervisors, and international collaborators, including the University of Bath, TU Graz, and the RILEM TC CUC committee. The position offers a full-time contract for up to 48 months, starting as early as March 2026, with a competitive, tax-free fellowship and comprehensive staff benefits.

Eligibility: Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in civil engineering, structural engineering, materials engineering, chemistry, geology, or a closely related field. Essential skills include knowledge of cement chemistry, concrete technology, and durability of cementitious materials. Analytical and modelling experience (e.g., TGA, XRD, SEM-BSE, porosimetry, NMR, thermodynamic modelling) is advantageous. Candidates must demonstrate strong motivation, independent and organized work habits, excellent teamwork, scientific writing, and English language proficiency. Willingness to travel to VITO (Mol) for some experiments is required.

Application: Submit a motivation letter, CV, diplomas, transcripts, degree projects, publications, proof of English proficiency, and two recommendation letters (or referees’ contact details) by email to Prof. Nele De Belie ([email protected]) with the subject: DOC-CEM PhD candidacy of [SURNAME - given name]. The deadline is 31 January 2026.

For further information, contact Prof. Nele De Belie at [email protected]. Ghent University is committed to equal opportunities and diversity in recruitment.