Postdoctoral Research Associate in Sustainable Concrete Durability and Bio-Enabled Cementitious Systems University of Sydney in Australia

The University of Sydney's School of Civil Engineering, ranked 28th globally in Civil and Structural Engineering (QS 2025), is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the Smart Materials and Sustainable Structures (SMS²) research group. This position focuses on developing sustainable, high-performance cementitious materials for future infrastructure, with a particular emphasis on low-carbon concrete solutions for wastewater infrastructure and bio-enabled strategies to enhance material performance under aggressive conditions.

The successful candidate will lead technical work on corrosion mechanisms and low-carbon concrete solutions for wastewater facilities, analyse existing specifications, and design and carry out laboratory experiments under aggressive exposure conditions such as microbial-induced corrosion. Responsibilities include advanced material characterisation, data analysis, and developing performance-based specifications, as well as working on bio-enabled cementitious systems focusing on microbial interactions, electrochemical testing, and material optimisation. Collaboration with industry partners, Sydney Water, and SmartCrete CRC is a key aspect of the role.

Applicants must have a PhD in Civil Engineering, Materials Science, Microbiology, Electrochemistry, or a related discipline, with demonstrated expertise in cementitious materials, concrete durability, or corrosion mechanisms. Additional requirements include knowledge of low-carbon concrete, supplementary cementitious materials, and geopolymer systems, familiarity with microbial processes or bioelectrochemical systems, experience with electrochemical testing and multifunctional material development, and advanced laboratory experimentation. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent communication for stakeholder engagement and publishing, and the ability to collaborate effectively with industry and multidisciplinary teams are essential. Experience with lifecycle assessment and sustainability frameworks is desirable. Preference is given to applicants currently residing in Australia.

This is a full-time, 1-year fixed-term position with a possible extension to 2 years. The base salary ranges from $113,400 to $151,328 (Academic Level A/B) plus 17% superannuation. The position is based at the Darlington Campus, University of Sydney. To apply, send a cover letter addressing the selection criteria, a detailed CV including publications and relevant experience, and contact details of two referees to Associate Professor Ali Hadigheh at [email protected].