Markus Schäfer

The University of Luxembourg invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher (PhD) position in Hybrid Composite Structures within the Department of Engineering, Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine. This opportunity is part of the European Eurostars project HySCom, focusing on the development of next-generation hybrid composite columns that combine reinforced concrete, structural steel, and SFRUHPC. The project is conducted in close collaboration with a leading German industrial partner, offering a unique blend of fundamental research and direct industrial application. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Professor Dr. Markus Schäfer and will be responsible for experimental material characterisation (concrete and UHPC), development and optimisation of UHPC mixtures, and the design and execution of both small- and large-scale experimental tests. The role also involves advanced 3D nonlinear finite element modelling using Abaqus, including studies under ambient and fire conditions, model calibration, and the development of structural and engineering design models. Additional duties include preparing scientific publications, participating in international conferences, and contributing to teaching and academic engagement. Applicants should possess a Master's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field, with a strong background in structural engineering and composite steel-concrete structures. Experience with construction materials, Eurocodes, and nonlinear FEM (preferably Abaqus, GMNIA) is required. Candidates should be interested in combining laboratory and numerical research. At least B2-level proficiency in the language of the thesis is mandatory, with accepted certificates as specified by the university. The University of Luxembourg offers a modern, dynamic, and inclusive research environment, with excellent infrastructure and strong links to industry and the Luxembourg labour market. The position is a fixed-term contract for 36 months, full-time, based at the Kirchberg Campus. The annual gross salary is EUR 41,976. The university encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and is committed to equality and respect for all employees and students. To apply, submit your application online through the University of Luxembourg HR system, including your CV, cover letter, transcripts, and contact details for 1-2 referees. Early application is encouraged as applications are processed upon receipt. Applications by email will not be considered.

The University of Luxembourg, a leading international research university, is offering a PhD position for a Doctoral researcher focused on carbonation-driven innovations in concrete. Hosted within the Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine (FSTM), this opportunity leverages multidisciplinary expertise in mathematics, physics, engineering, computer science, life sciences, and medicine. The research aims to reduce the CO₂ footprint of concrete by exploring carbon-capture, storage, and sequestration techniques, contributing to sustainable construction and environmental impact mitigation. The doctoral project involves investigating concrete mixes that lead to a reduced carbon footprint, analyzing performance for both fresh and hardened concrete, and assessing long-term durability. The candidate will design and execute experimental campaigns, validate and analyze results, and actively participate in laboratory work. Advanced 3D nonlinear finite element modelling, calibration, validation, and parametric studies are integral to the research. The project also includes scientific publications, international conference presentations, and support for educational activities. Key research technologies include the use of biomass as carbon-rich additives, carbonation of recycled aggregates, and microbe-induced calcite precipitation for developing self-healing concrete that binds CO₂. The position is supervised by Prof. Dr.-Ing. Markus Schäfer, who can provide further information about the research focus and expectations. Applicants must hold an MSc or equivalent in Civil Engineering or Material Science related to structural concrete and cement products, with a strong background in construction materials. Experience or interest in concrete material behaviour and testing, nonlinear FEM, and combining laboratory, analytical, and numerical research is highly desirable. Language proficiency at B2-level or higher in the thesis language is required, with accepted certificates as specified by the university. The University of Luxembourg offers a modern, dynamic, and inclusive environment, with staff from over 90 countries and strong links to professional sectors and the Luxembourg labour market. The Belval Campus provides excellent infrastructure and opportunities for collaboration with European institutions, innovative companies, and a wide range of non-academic partners. The position is a fixed-term contract for 36 months, full-time (40 hours per week), with a yearly gross salary of EUR 43445. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply, and the university promotes an inclusive culture, welcoming applicants from diverse backgrounds. To apply, submit your application online through the HR system, including your CV, cover letter (max. 500 words), and transcript of university-level courses. Early application is encouraged as applications are processed upon reception. Applications by email will not be considered.

The University of Luxembourg invites applications for a PhD position as a Doctoral researcher in Bio-based Construction Materials. This opportunity is embedded within the Climate Nexus Framework project, funded by the Luxembourg Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Biodiversity, and executed in the Physics of Living Matter Group. The project is part of a consortium of research groups focused on carbon capture and storage (CCUS) in Luxembourg, with immediate synergies with Prof. Markus Schäfer and Prof. Numa Bertola from the Department of Engineering. This interdisciplinary, research-intensive PhD position aims to advance innovative, bio-based construction materials by integrating concepts from physics, microbiology, and structural engineering. The research will develop bottom-up solutions for next-generation construction materials, bridging physics of materials, microbiology, and structural engineering. Collaborative opportunities with local and European experts in microbiology and biotechnology are foreseen, with the goal of translating technological breakthroughs into real-life built architectures for terrestrial, subsurface, and space applications. The doctoral candidate will be enrolled in the Doctoral School in Science and Engineering at the University of Luxembourg, participating in a vibrant PhD program that includes transferable skills training, career development support, lectures by international experts, and annual PhD symposia. Upon successful completion, the candidate will receive a PhD in Physics. Research activities will include wet lab experiments and computational analysis to develop innovative biomaterials for construction materials. Techniques such as quantitative imaging (from nanoscale to macroscale), microbiological assays, micro- and macroscale fluidics, statistical analysis, and machine learning tools will be extensively employed. The project specifically focuses on advancing biotechnological breakthroughs toward CCUS-conforming biomaterials, which can be tested and valorized under real-life construction settings. Applicants should hold a Bachelors and Masters degree in Natural Sciences, Engineering, or Technological fields, with preference for graduates in material sciences, soft, living matter, or microbial biotechnology. Wet lab experience, quantitative imaging, image analysis, and familiarity with programming languages (MATLAB, Python) and collaborative code development (Git, GitHub/GitLab) are desired. Applicants must demonstrate at least B2-level proficiency in the language of their thesis. The University of Luxembourg offers a modern, dynamic, and inclusive research environment, with staff from over 90 countries and strong links to professional sectors and the Luxembourg labour market. The position is a fixed-term contract for 36 months, full-time (40 hours/week), based at Limpertsberg Campus. The yearly gross salary for doctoral researchers is EUR 43445. To apply, submit your application online through the HR system, including your CV, cover letter, and transcripts. Early application is encouraged as applications are processed upon reception. Applications by email will not be considered. The University promotes an inclusive culture and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds.