Postdoc "Recycling and sustainable construction materials"

As VITO, we have clear ambitions to further strengthen our research programme ‘Sustainable Materials Management’. We strive towards a more circular economy, by developing zero-waste solutions to sustainably transform residues into resources and products. One of our core research activities is the development of innovative processes to develop sustainable construction materials (SCMs, fine sand, aggregates,….) from industrial residues (slags, ashes, sludges….). In our vision, it is key to find safe and added-value applications for the voluminous matrix that remains after the extraction of valuable metals and/or minerals from industrial residues. Applications as cement, fine and coarse aggregate of both high technical and environmental quality do not only provide a stable and large volume market, but also add value to mineral waste streams, instead of landfilling these.

We are looking for an experienced researcher to strengthen this visionary research track. As a post-doc researcher, you will explore the relationships between the raw material properties, the processing steps and the technical/environmental quality of the construction materials in relation to construction applications. As an example, you will contribute to the ongoing projects that focus on the valorisation of aggregate washing sludges, and secondary sands to produce inert filler for concrete, supplementary cementitious material, and/or lightweight aggregates.

You are responsible for specific research tasks related to the performance evaluation of the cement-based mixes (pastes, mortar, screed, concrete) incorporating the novel secondary construction materials developed in the various projects (filler, SCM and lightweight aggregates). This includes reactivity, mechanical and durability tests, effects on phase assemblage and pore microstructure (matrix and interfacial transition zone), and environmental quality. You are involved in the execution of the research in the lab, interpretation of the results and summarizing the date in a research report and/or scientific paper.

More information on our activities: Getting value out of waste.

• PhD (Civil Engineering, Material Science, or similar) completed at time of starting the position.
• Strong background in cement and concrete technology, particularly in terms of durability performance and application of secondary constituents (novel SCMs, low carbon binders, recycled aggregates). Expertise in advanced analytical techniques in materials science are desirable.
• Experience with secondary raw materials and their application in cement-based materials.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, with proven capability for research design, execution, analysis, and dissemination. This involves proving a good track record of publications relative to seniority.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail, with a proactive, motivated, and result-driven character.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and oral, and including the ability to clearly present speciliazed technical information to technicians, researchers and management.
• You have outstanding organizational and project management skills, with the attitude of a dedicated team player.

Offer

• A competitive salary with a range of benefits including allowances, insurances, and a modular vacation package.
• Innoavtion is our core asset; therefore it goes without saying that we give our employees the opportunity to undertake additional training and keep up to date in their field of expertise.
• The chance to be part of an organisation with an international reputation, known for its advanced technological research and scientific consultancy.
• The possibility to actively contribute towards sustainable developments at local, national and global level.