Arbetsbeskrivning
Two doctoral students in materials science with a focus on cementitious materials
The Department of Architechture and Civil Engineering at Chalmers University of Technology is looking for two doctoral students within the framework of the Research School for Excellence in Materials Science for Cement-Based Materials (RECEM), which is funded by the Swedish Research Council.
About the Research School for Excellence in Materials Science for Cement-Based Materials (RECEM)
The Research School for Excellence in Materials Science for Cement-Based Materials (RECEM) focuses on materials science within the entire value chain for cement-based materials, including raw material extraction, slag recycling and innovation in cement with low carbon emissions. In total, the research school will have 14 doctoral students who participate in courses and activities within the research school at Umeå University, Luleå University of Technology, Chalmers University of Technology, and the synchrotron MAX IV Laboratory at Lund University. RECEM is funded by the Swedish Research Council and coordinated by Umeå University.
The doctoral students at Chalmers University of Technology will belong to the Building Materials research area at The Department of Architechture and Civil Engineering
Project description
The doctoral projects span several central questions within cement-based materials with a focus on Hydration of Supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) incorporated systems. The research includes, among other things, how systems incorporating emerging cementitious materials can be designed to enhance the dissolution of SCMs without negatively affecting cement hydration, while simultaneously characterizing dissolution, precipitation, and pore‑structure evolution using analytical laboratory techniques and synchrotron facilities.
About the position
The position is aimed at a doctoral degree and the doctoral student's main task is to devote him/herself to his doctoral education, which includes participation in the research projects described above as well as in doctoral education courses. The duties may include teaching and other departmental work (maximum 20%). The position is limited in time to four years full-time or up to five years for teaching or departmental work.
About us
The Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering tackles contemporary and emerging challenges for the built and natural environment, ranging from resource utilisation, pollution and climate change to digitalisation and inequality. We combine expertise in architecture, civil engineering and related disciplines to build a better world.
At the building materials research area, we are committed to developing innovative and environmentally responsible solutions for the built environment. Our research extends beyond conventional cement and concrete to explore a wide range of binders and material applications, including non-reinforced cementitious systems, polymer composites, and modular construction systems. By integrating experimental research with computational modeling and industrial collaboration, we aim to shape a more sustainable construction industry while ensuring durability, efficiency, and resource optimization.
Qualifications
• To qualify as a Doctoral student, you must have a Master's degree (masterexamen) of 120 credits or a Master’s degree (magisterexamen) of 60 credits in inorganic chemistry, physics, material science, material engineering, civil engineering or other subjects that are considered to be directly relevant to the current specialization. For students with an education earned outside of Sweden, a 4-year Bachelor’s degree is accepted.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
• Experience in cementitious materials characterization is highly valued.
Other requirements
We are looking for candidates who have a special interest in contributing to a necessary transformation of material production that is important to society with direct benefits for the climate. The candidate should have a genuine interest in understanding how cement-based materials and related processes work in-depth, from substitution in structures at the atomic level to effects on materials in larger processes.
Good oral and written skills in English, both spoken and written, are required. To succeed in this four-year project, the candidate must be meticulous, have logical thinking and good problem-solving skills.
Merits
Practical experience of cement-related processes is a merit. Furthermore, documented experience of various experimental techniques in X-ray diffraction, spectroscopy, thermodynamics, or electron microscopy as well as knowledge of basic programming are meritorious.
Consideration will also be given to good cooperation skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through their experience and competence, is judged to have the ability needed to complete the doctoral program.
Contract terms
• The Doctoral student positions are fully funded from start.
• The position is a fixed-term appointment of four years, with the possibility to teach up to 20%, which extends the position up to five years.
• A starting salary of 34,550 SEK per month (valid from May 25, 2025).
• Doctoral studies require physical presence throughout the entire study period. A valid residence permit must be presented by the study start date; otherwise the admission may be withdrawn.
What we offer
• As a Doctoral student at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.
• A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
• Read more about Sweden’s generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.
Find more general information about doctoral studies at Chalmers here.
Application procedure
Read more and apply through our web portal: https://www.chalmers.se/en/about-chalmers/work-with-us/vacancies/?rmpage=job&rmjob=14542
We welcome your application no later than 1st of March 2026.
*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***