PhD Studentship in Low Carbon Concrete Infrastructure
Accelerate the adoption of lower-carbon concrete in UK infrastructure through experimental work and multi-physics modelling.
Best for:Best for engineering and science graduates with a strong academic background and an interest in sustainable construction materials.
Overview
This four-year MRes/PhD studentship is offered through the Cambridge EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Future Infrastructure and Built Environment (FIBE3 CDT) in collaboration with National Highways. The research project focuses on derisking the adoption of lower-carbon concretes by scrutinising binder materials with high cement replacement levels. The successful candidate will combine advanced experimental techniques and multi-physics modelling to evaluate microstructure, durability, and service-life performance. The findings will help bridge knowledge gaps, validate composition thresholds, and support net-zero aspirations in UK infrastructure.
What you'll do
- Conduct digitally enhanced experimental work to examine the material properties and microstructure of lower-carbon concrete mixes.
- Develop and apply multi-physics models to investigate service-life performance and durability under various composition thresholds.
- Assess the alignment and compliance of multi-component binder concretes against current engineering design standards.
- Collaborate with industrial partner National Highways to address practical knowledge gaps and accelerate material adoption.
- Complete required coursework and research milestones within the four-year MRes/PhD programme structure.
Requirements
Degree required: BSc in engineering, sciences or a relevant discipline (Master's level preferred)
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English
Instruction: English
- Strong academic record with at least a high 2.1 or first-class undergraduate degree
- Background in engineering, applied sciences, or a closely related discipline
- Capability to perform rigorous experimental testing and physical characterisation
- Interest in numerical or multi-physics modelling for materials research
- Fully-funded studentships including fees and maintenance are primarily available for eligible home students
- A limited number of international student funding positions may be considered at later stages of recruitment
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2027-04-30
Submit your application online through the University of Cambridge Applicant Portal. Ensure you explicitly state the project title and supervisor's name in your submission materials. Note that an application fee applies.
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Research statement
- Reference letters
Contact
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