PhD Studentship: Novel CO2-Negative Cements from Low-Cost Iron Ores Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand

This fully funded PhD studentship at Victoria University of Wellington offers an exciting opportunity to join a world-leading research group at the Robinson Research Institute in New Zealand. The project focuses on developing a novel CO2-absorbing cement formulation using hydrogen-reduced iron ores, aiming to revolutionize the construction industry by creating cements that are not only strong but also environmentally beneficial.

Concrete production is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, primarily due to the CO2 released during the manufacture of Portland Cement. This project seeks to address this challenge by investigating iron-based cement chemistries, specifically the 'Ferrock' process, which absorbs CO2 during curing. Unlike traditional Ferrock, which relies on expensive and high-carbon steel dust, this research will utilize abundant and low-cost iron oxide ores processed via hydrogen-reduction to produce reactive iron particles (RIPs).

The successful PhD candidate will work within a dynamic team of government and university researchers, exploring the production of RIPs from various iron ores and their impact on the cementing characteristics and performance of Ferrock cements. The research will involve hands-on experience with advanced experimental fluidised bed reactors, materials chemistry, and cement formulation. Students will gain expertise in materials characterisation techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, powder XRD, XRF, TGA/DSC, and mechanical and durability testing of concrete. There will also be opportunities to participate in technoeconomic studies to assess the viability of large-scale production of iron-carbonate based concrete.

The Clean Materials group at the Robinson Research Institute, led by Prof. Chris Bumby and co-supervised by Dr. Vineet Shah and Dr. Morgan Lowther, provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and a collaborative research environment. The student will also have the chance to engage with the MacDiarmid Institute, further broadening their research network and expertise.

Eligibility requirements include a first class NZ honours degree or equivalent Masters level degree in Materials Science/Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. Highly motivated candidates passionate about materials engineering and sustainability are encouraged to apply. Students with a good 2:1 MEng degree from a UK Russell Group university are also eligible. All applicants must meet the PhD admission criteria of Victoria University of Wellington, including academic and language requirements.

The studentship provides a generous tax-free stipend of NZ$35,000 per annum for three years, along with full payment of university fees. The application deadline is January 24, 2026. For further information and to apply, contact the Robinson Research Institute at [email protected], including copies of all previous university qualifications. More details on entry requirements can be found on the university website.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in sustainable materials and help shape the future of low-carbon construction technologies.