Unravelling the Chemo-Mechanical Degradation of Concrete: PhD Position at Imperial College London Imperial College London in United Kingdom

Concrete is the most widely used artificial material in the world, playing a critical role in global infrastructure. However, its durability is challenged by chemo-mechanical degradation processes, such as corrosion-induced cracking and carbonation-induced shrinkage, which can lead to premature structural failures and significant economic losses. This PhD position at Imperial College London aims to advance fundamental understanding of these degradation mechanisms, with a particular focus on corrosion and carbonation effects in reinforced concrete.

The research will build on the supervisors' previous work and will involve both experimental and modelling approaches. The candidate will have the opportunity to develop pioneering applications, including self-healing concrete and concrete batteries, and to create a new generation of physics-based predictive models for concrete durability. The balance between experimental and modelling work can be tailored to the candidate’s strengths and interests. Those with a background or interest in Earth Sciences may also explore degradation mechanisms in geomaterials.

Research will be conducted in the Materials Section of the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, based at the Skempton Building on Imperial’s South Kensington Campus. The candidate will have access to the Advanced Infrastructure Materials Laboratory, a world-class facility for concrete materials characterisation. Collaboration opportunities exist with research groups at the University of Oxford and Czech Technical University in Prague.

Applicants should demonstrate motivation and capacity for pioneering research, with a passion for continuous learning. A civil engineering degree is not required; candidates from engineering, physical sciences, or mathematics are encouraged to apply. Minimum requirements include a First-Class Honours degree (70% and above) or international equivalent. Candidates with lower degree classifications may apply if they can demonstrate exceptional motivation and potential. Fluency in English is required.

Funding is available for tuition fees at the Home (UK) student level and a tax-free stipend at the UKRI London rate (£22,780 per annum for 2025/26). International students are welcome to apply if they can secure additional funding to cover the fee difference. Outstanding candidates may receive support in applying for Imperial PhD Scholarships.

Applications are accepted year-round. Interested candidates should contact Dr Evzen Korec by email ([email protected]) with a statement of interest and a current academic CV. There is no need to apply via the Imperial College Registry at this stage; applications will be reviewed regularly until the position is filled. Successful candidates will be invited to formally submit a PhD application through the Registry system.

For further information and references, see the project page and recent publications by the supervisor.