PhD Researcher (f/m/d) – Microstructure and Performance of Low-Carbon Composite Cements

Join Heidelberg Materials and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT; German: Karlsruher Institut für Technologie)  to investigate how the microstructure of modern low-carbon cements influences strength and performance. As part of our international R&D team, you will conduct cutting-edge research, publish scientific findings, and contribute to the development of more sustainable construction materials.

Your profile:

• Master's degree in Materials Science, Civil Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or similar

• Strong interest in scientific research and doctoral studies

• Experience in laboratory work and data analysis

• Fluent English

What we offer:

• PhD opportunity with KIT

• International R&D environment

• Research with real industrial impact

• Contribution to the decarbonization of the construction industry

Want to learn more about the research project? Keep reading below for additional details on the scientific background, objectives, and methodology.

Help Shape the Future of Sustainable Construction Materials

Are you passionate about scientific research and eager to contribute to the decarbonization of the construction industry?

As a PhD Researcher (f/m/d) – Microstructure and Performance of Low-Carbon Composite Cements, you will join Heidelberg Materials' international Research & Development team while pursuing your doctoral degree in collaboration with the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT; German: Karlsruher Institut für Technologie) . Your research will focus on next-generation low-carbon cements and explore how their microstructure influences strength, durability, and overall performance.

This is a unique opportunity to combine academic excellence with real-world industrial impact and contribute to the development of more sustainable construction materials.

Your place of work will be Leimen, nearby Heidelberg, Germany.

YOUR NEXT CHALLENGE

Modern low-clinker cements are essential for reducing CO₂ emissions, but their behavior is significantly more complex than that of conventional cements.

In this PhD project, you will investigate how hydration products shape the microstructure of cementitious materials and how this microstructure influences properties such as strength, stiffness, and porosity. Your work will help establish a scientific basis for designing stronger and more sustainable low-carbon binders.

Your Responsibilities

• Conduct original doctoral research in collaboration with KIT

• Design and perform experimental studies on modern composite cement systems

• Analyze and interpret scientific data to understand structure-performance relationships

• Investigate the influence of hydration products, pore structure, and microstructural development on mechanical performance

• Evaluate the effects of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), fillers, and key chemical parameters on cement properties

• Develop scientific methodologies and contribute to innovative research concepts

• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences

• Collaborate with internal R&D experts and external academic partners

• Prepare and submit your doctoral dissertation

• Contribute to knowledge transfer between academia and industry

YOUR PROFILE

• Master's degree (or equivalent) in Materials Science, Civil Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field

• Strong academic record and genuine interest in scientific research

• Motivation to pursue a PhD degree

• Experience with laboratory work, data analysis, and scientific reporting

• Knowledge of cementitious materials, construction materials, or related material systems is an advantage

• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within interdisciplinary teams

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

• Excellent written and spoken English

• German language skills are beneficial but not required

OUR OFFER

• A fully integrated PhD program in cooperation with Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT; German: Karlsruher Institut für Technologie)  

• The opportunity to work on cutting-edge research supporting the decarbonization of cement production

• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and international experts

• A collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment

• Opportunities for scientific publications, conference participation, and professional development

• The chance to create tangible impact in one of the world's most essential industries