John Kolawole

[Fully funded studentship for UK/home students, including stipend and tuition coverage. International students may apply if they can cover the tuition difference through self-funding or external sources.] This PhD studentship at the University of Birmingham focuses on investigating and mitigating micro-defects in 3D-printed concrete, a rapidly evolving area in construction engineering. 3D concrete printing (3DCP) is transforming the construction industry by enabling greater design flexibility, material efficiency, and automation. Unlike traditional concrete casting, 3DCP builds structures layer by layer, which introduces unique challenges, particularly at the interfaces between layers. These interfaces are prone to micro-defects caused by factors such as air entrapment, environmental exposure, and inconsistent bonding, all of which can lead to mechanical anisotropy and reduce the durability of printed structures. The project aims to understand the formation of these micro-defects and develop strategies to mitigate them, ensuring the reliability and scalability of 3D-printed concrete for real-world applications. Research will focus on how parameters like printing speed, toolpath strategy, material rheology, and geometric complexity affect interlayer adhesion. Additionally, the project will explore innovative material-based solutions to reduce anisotropy and enhance the structural integrity of printed elements. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research group in the School of Engineering, benefiting from access to state-of-the-art 3D printing and materials testing facilities. The School of Engineering at the University of Birmingham is housed in a new £65M building and offers a vibrant research environment with opportunities for collaboration with both academic and industry partners in digital construction. The studentship is fully funded for UK/home students, covering both stipend and tuition. International students are welcome to apply if they can cover the tuition difference through self-funding or external sources. Applicants should have a background in Civil Engineering, Materials Science, or related fields, and should possess strong analytical skills and a willingness to engage in experimental and interdisciplinary research. The preferred start date is January 2026, and applications are accepted year-round. For more information or informal inquiries, candidates are encouraged to contact Dr John Kolawole.

A fully funded PhD position is available at the University of Birmingham, School of Engineering, under the supervision of Assistant Professor John Kolawole. The research focuses on advanced construction materials, including cement science, binder system rheology, concrete properties, and additive manufacturing. The ideal candidate will have hands-on laboratory experience, skills in analytical modelling, and familiarity with advanced research techniques. Strong motivation, communication, and critical thinking skills are essential, as is the ability to work in a multidisciplinary and international team. Funding includes UK home tuition fees and a stipend. Interested applicants should send their CV and research statement to [email protected]. The position is open for applications until December 28, 2024. This opportunity is ideal for candidates passionate about structural engineering and innovative materials research.