Post-doctoral Research Fellow in Marine Application of Fibre Reinforced Concrete University of Agder (UiA) in Norway

The University of Agder (UiA) invites applications for a three-year, full-time Post-doctoral Research Fellow position in the marine application of fibre reinforced concrete, based at the Faculty of Engineering and Science, Department of Engineering Sciences, at Campus Grimstad, Norway. This position is funded by Sørlandets Kompetansefond and is part of a collaboration with Equinor and other industry partners, aiming to support the industrialisation of the Agder region towards offshore energy production.

The research will focus on advancing the use of fibre reinforced concrete, including both standard and Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC), for offshore structures such as floating wind turbine foundations and oil platforms. While international standards for fibre reinforced concrete exist, they are primarily designed for onshore applications, and significant knowledge gaps remain for offshore use. The successful candidate will contribute to closing these gaps by investigating material properties, structural behaviour, and production methods relevant to marine environments.

Key research areas include industrialising production methods (such as slipforming and conventional formwork casting), optimising the use of high-performance concrete in critical areas, reducing structural dimensions and rebar density, improving durability and crack resistance, and enhancing safety during both construction and operation. The specific research focus will be determined in dialogue with Equinor, tailored to the appointee’s expertise.

Applicants must hold a PhD in civil and structural engineering and demonstrate a strong publication record in relevant fields. Proficiency in written and spoken English is required. Experience collaborating with industrial and academic partners, strong analytical skills, and effective academic communication are highly desirable. Personal qualities such as independence, proactivity, teamwork, inventiveness, and a commitment to a safe and inclusive work environment are valued.

The position offers professional development opportunities within a large, diverse, and inclusive organisation, access to modern facilities, and membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund. The annual gross salary ranges from NOK 600,000 to 650,000, with higher grades possible for exceptional candidates. A compulsory pension contribution is deducted according to statutory provisions.

To apply, candidates must submit an electronic application including certificates with grades, a list of publications, doctoral thesis, up to 10 academic articles or R&D projects, a description of research interests and relevance, a brief overview of relevant research, a project plan, and any other supporting documentation. All materials must be in a Scandinavian language or English. The application deadline is December 20, 2025.

For further information about the position, contact Professor Rein Terje Thorstensen at [email protected]. For questions about the application process, contact HR-adviser Heidi Kristensen at [email protected]. More details and the application portal are available at the official job posting link.

UiA is committed to diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, age, cultural background, disability, or incomplete CV. The university reserves the right to publish the names of applicants as per Norwegian law.