Research Assistant (3D Concrete Printing Technology and Design) - LAB-UCLouvain Université catholique de Louvain in Belgium

The Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain) invites applications for a research assistant position focused on 3D concrete printing (3DCP) technology and design within the DUN³ES-LAB project. This project is part of the DUN³ES portfolio, which aims to develop and upcycle natural and non-natural e-circular sands, funded by FEDER and the Walloon Region (FTJ programme). The research targets the creation of innovative construction systems using recycled sand-based materials, supporting high-value sectors such as concrete and plastics.

As a member of the LAB institute in the Sector of Science and Technologies (SST) at UCLouvain, you will collaborate with academic partners (UCLouvain, ULiège) and industrial partners (Buildwise, CTP) to advance the development, prototyping, and testing of segmental construction systems for 3DCP. Your responsibilities will include parametric modelling (Grasshopper/Rhino 3D), structural verification and optimisation, development of printing protocols, laboratory testing, coordination of 3D printing campaigns, supervision of prototype assembly, and performance evaluation. You will also participate in consortium meetings, contribute to technical reports and scientific articles, and co-design a demonstrator integrating recycled sands and 3DCP technologies.

Applicants must hold a master's degree (300+ ECTS) or PhD in architectural engineering, architecture, or civil engineering, with a specialisation in structural design or additive manufacturing. Essential skills include computational design (Grasshopper/Rhino 3D), 3D concrete printing, scientific writing, and collaborative project management. Technical proficiency in Grasshopper, FEM simulation, slicing software (Ultimaker Cura, PrusaSlicer), and simulation tools (Abaqus, ANSYS) is required. Knowledge of Eurocodes and cementitious materials is necessary. English proficiency at C1 level is mandatory; French at B2 is strongly preferred. Desirable qualifications include experience in robotics (robotic arms for 3DCP), Life Cycle Assessment, and awareness of circular economy challenges in the construction sector.

The position offers a fixed-term contract: 24 months for candidates with a master's degree, and 21 months for postdoctoral profiles, both full-time. The role is based at the UCLouvain Campus in Tournai, with occasional travel within the Brussels and Walloon region to partner sites. Supervision is provided by Professor Denis Zastavni, with support from a junior robotic technician and concrete technicians. The salary is according to the UCLouvain pay scale, with net monthly earnings from approximately €2,300 for master-level candidates and from €3,200 for PhD-level candidates, depending on experience and family situation. Additional benefits include reimbursement of mission expenses, participation in international conferences, and access to a dedicated 3DCP laboratory equipped with new technology.

To apply, candidates should submit a cover letter (max 1 page), detailed CV, responses to essential and desirable criteria, academic transcripts (translated into English if necessary), and proof of English proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL, unless exempt) as a single PDF or ZIP file named in the format <LastName_FirstName>.pdf (or .zip). Applications should be sent via email to Professor Denis Zastavni ([email protected]). The final deadline for applications is 29 May 2026, but applications are reviewed and interviews conducted on a rolling basis. Selected candidates will be invited to an online interview to present their previous research activities and discuss their motivations for joining the project. The anticipated start date is October 2026.

This opportunity is ideal for candidates passionate about sustainable construction, advanced manufacturing, and collaborative research in a dynamic academic and industrial environment.