Postdoctoral researcher – SpecMix low‑carbon concrete project

About the role

The SpecMix project, funded by the Industrial Research Fund of Ghent University, aims to develop and optimise low‑carbon concrete mix designs for spin‑off commercialisation. The successful candidate will join the Department of Structural Engineering and Building Materials and work closely with an entrepreneur in residence and a physics‑informed machine‑learning team.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and optimise predictive mix‑design tools for alkali‑activated low‑carbon concretes.
• Extend and curate databases of mix designs and concrete properties for machine‑learning applications.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary partners to advance the technology towards industrial readiness.

Required profile

• PhD in a field directly related to low‑carbon concrete mix design.
• Independent, well‑organized work style with an entrepreneurial mindset.
• Strong communication skills for interdisciplinary teamwork.

Required skills

• Knowledge of low‑carbon concretes, mix design, and concrete properties (workability, strength, durability).
• Experience with machine‑learning, particularly physics‑informed approaches.

What we offer

• 12‑month fixed‑term contract (PD1‑PD4 salary scale).
• Access to extensive training, professional development, and flexible working conditions.
• Bicycle allowance, eco‑vouchers, and 36 days of holiday plus bridge days.