Doctoral researcher - Carbonation-Driven in Concrete

Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg

About us

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.

The Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine (FSTM) at the University of Luxembourg contributes multidisciplinary expertise in the fields of Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, Life Sciences and Medicine.
Through its dual mission of teaching and research, the FSTM seeks to generate and disseminate knowledge and train new generations of responsible citizens in order to better understand, explain and advance society and environment we live in.

Your role

• Investigation into concrete mixes leading to CO2 reduced carbon footprint for concrete
• Analysis of concrete performance for fresh and hardened concrete, long-term effects, durability
• Design, execution of tests; validation and analysis of the experimental campaign results
• Active laboratory work in the concrete laboratory
• Advanced 3D nonlinear finite element modelling
• Calibration, validation and parametric studies
• Scientific publications and international conference presentations, support of education

Research Focus:

• Reduce of the CO₂ footprint of concrete by carbon-capture, storage, sequester
• Research concrete structural and long-term performance using technologies, including:
  • Biomass as carbon-rich additives
  • Carbonation of recycled aggregates
  • Microbe-Induced Calcite Precipitation for the development of self-healing concrete binding CO₂

For any further information about the position, please contact Prof. Dr.-Ing. Markus Schäfer.

Your profile

• MSc or equivalent in Civil Engineering / Material Science related to structural concrete and cement products
• Strong background in construction materials
• Ideally, you have experience or interest in:
  • Concrete material behaviour and testing
  • Nonlinear FEM
  • Combining laboratory, analytical and numerical research

Language Requirements:

Applicants must demonstrate at least B2-level proficiency in the language of their thesis. For details and accepted certificates, please visit the Application for admission - Doctoral Candidates.

We offer

• A modern, dynamic university with a personal and inclusive atmosphere. Multilingual and international character. Staff coming from more than 90 countries. Member of The Guild of European Research Intensive Universities
• An exceptional research environment, supported by skilled staff and high-quality equipment. Strong links to professional sectors and the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban campus with excellent infrastructure
• A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and a wide range of non-academic partners including ministries, local governments, associations, and NGOs

How to apply

Applications should include:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover letter presenting your motivation for this doctoral thesis topic, and explaining how your qualifications and aspirations align with its academic focus (max. 500 words)
• Transcript of all modules and results from university-level courses taken

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.

General information:

• Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 36 Month
• Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
• Location: Belval Campus
• Internal Title: Doctoral Researcher
• Job Reference: UOL08171

The yearly gross salary for every Doctoral researcher at the UL is EUR 43445 (full time).

Job details

Title: Doctoral researcher - Carbonation-Driven in Concrete
Employer: University of Luxembourg
Location: Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
Published: 2026-04-21
Application deadline: Unspecified
Job type: PhD
Field: Materials Engineering, Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Structural Engineering