Doctoral researcher in Bio-based Construction Materials
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.
