We are hiring a doctoral fellow on the topic of “Circular and zero-waste design and performance of wood-based building materials from local and underutilised wood sources “. You will be part of an international and interdisciplinary consortium, working on a Horizon Europe project “WoodStock” that investigates climate-smart construction methods using underutilised wood resources like locally harvested hardwood, low-quality and post-consumer wood.
As a collaborator on the project, you will research and develop new zero-waste concepts for structural systems and products from local wood sources, with a specific focus on hardwoods and reclaimed wood components. You will investigate how to exploit wood properties related to hardwoods and post-consumer wood to optimally implement these in building materials. To do so, you will review current, historical and innovative practices, co-create and elaborate the zero-waste concepts and assess their performance. The co-creation will happen in the context of the WoodStock Living Labs, where you will collaborate with students and actors from a.o. the wood and construction industry.
You will be part of the UGent-Woodlab (Faculty of Bioscience Engineering) and the UGent Building Physics research groups (Faculty of Engineering and Architecture), who have been collaborating on topics related to wood and bio-based building materials for over 7 years.
YOUR TASKS
- At least 90% of your assignment will be spent on academic research in preparation of a doctoral dissertation.
- Conduct high-quality scientific research on the topic of circular and zero-waste design and performance of wood-based building materials from local and underutilised wood sources.
- Experimental work: design and performance testing.
- Supporting the organisation and participation in co-creation activities in the WoodStock Living labs.
- You will be involved in education activities.
Job profile
You hold a Master’s degree (preferably in Bioscience Engineering, Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering-Architecture, or Industrial Engineering: Construction or Industrial Design Engineering Technology).
You enjoy performing research, including experimental work. You are independent, self-motivated and eager to learn. You are keen to develop new fundamental knowledge and engineer novel solutions for addressing real-world societal challenges, particularly in the sustainable use of wood.
Experience and/or a thesis in the context of timber construction and sustainable building in Europe is highly recommended.
You can communicate fluently (both orally and in writing) in English.
You can plan and execute your tasks independently and efficiently.
You have excellent communication skills.
You function well in a team setting.
Recently graduated students are encouraged to apply.
