Doctoral Scholarship in Sustainable Structures and Durable Concrete Repair
The University of Antwerp invites applications for a full-time doctoral scholarship in the field of sustainable structures and durable concrete repair. As a leading European university, the University of Antwerp offers innovative academic education and conducts pioneering scientific research, with a strong commitment to societal impact and sustainability. The Department of Civil Engineering Technology within the Faculty of Applied Engineering is seeking a motivated PhD candidate to join the research group EMIB (Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings), focusing on Circular Concrete Structures and Sustainability Assessment.
This doctoral research addresses the urgent need for durable concrete repair and service life extension, particularly for infrastructure and buildings constructed in the 1970s. The project aims to minimize demolition waste and material consumption through 'precision repair,' intervening only where strictly necessary. The research will explore the transformative potential of Hyperspectral Imaging (HSI) as a diagnostic tool, integrating non-contact HSI technology with subsurface physical measurements such as Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), moisture and permeability sensing, ultrasonic testing, and potential mapping.
Using innovative algorithms, the candidate will develop a Smart Zoning framework to segment concrete structures into distinct risk profiles. The project will evaluate how Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) systems can be optimized using non-contact data, enabling a shift from periodic inspections to predictive maintenance strategies. This evidence-based approach supports the deployment of various restoration strategies, including patch repair, conventional restoration, and cathodic protection (ICCP), as well as the selection of optimized repair mortars.
The research involves modeling complex correlations between intensive contact-based measurements, rapid surface scans, and the actual material state, considering composition, environmental boundary conditions, and contamination levels. The candidate will also quantify the ecological and economic benefits of precision repair and smart zoning through comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA).
As a doctoral researcher, you will contribute to attracting internal and external funding, publish scientific articles, participate in national and international symposia and conferences, and communicate research results to industry stakeholders. You will also undertake limited teaching and research support tasks within the Faculty of Applied Engineering and may assist in supervising Bachelor’s or Master’s theses.
Applicants must hold a Master degree in Industrial Sciences, Applied or Civil Engineering, or obtain it by the start date. Excellent study results, teaching competences aligned with the university’s educational vision, and research qualities matching faculty and university policies are required. Candidates should be quality-oriented, ethical, creative, and team players, comfortable in interdisciplinary environments. Strong affinity for concrete technology, damage diagnostics, condition assessment, and durable repair of concrete structures is essential. Experience with data processing and programming (Python or Matlab) and innovative sensor technology is a significant asset.
The scholarship is offered for two years, with the possibility of renewal for another two years following a positive evaluation. The monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to university rates. Additional benefits include ecocheques, internet-connectivity allowance, bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting, and access to a wide range of courses and educational credit through the Antwerp Doctoral School. The planned start date is 1 September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. Most work will be conducted at Campus Groenenborger in a dynamic and stimulating environment.
Applications must be submitted online via the University of Antwerp’s job application platform by 7 May 2026. Required attachments include a motivation letter and academic CV. The selection committee will review applications after the deadline, and interviews are scheduled for 18 May. For questions about the application process, contact [email protected]. For job-related inquiries, contact Prof. Bart Craeye ([email protected]).
The University of Antwerp is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities, and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds. The university has received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy and offers a family-friendly, sustainable working environment.
