The applicant (researcher/writer) will work within the framework of the European project "Seramco'. The main objective of this project is to provide knowledge and material to start high-quality recycling of secondhand (demolished) concrete, brick, tiles, and ceramics, to enable the re-use of those materials for advanced prefab products. The current world conditions, from which we increasingly understand our planet as one circular system and acknowledge the urgency of a transition of our economy to a sustainable economy, makes this project very relevant.
About 50% of primary raw materials in the EU are used in the building sector, which is also responsible for about one third of all waste. Until now, recycled materials are mostly down-cycled to be used primarily as filling materials. Although the recycling quota of CBTC in northwestern Europe is more than 70%, only about 2-4% is re-used for concrete production.
This project aims to increase the utilisation of construction and demolition waste as high-quality secondary raw materials for cement and concrete production. To understand the range of potential application of this recycled concrete, research will be undertaken to determine local and global needs and potential developments.
SeRaMCo's overall outputs will be:
(a) technologies enabling the use of recycled material in cement and concrete production.
(b) cement and CPP from 100 % recycled aggregates.
(c) new applications of concrete precast products (which will be the main task for the TU Delft, and for which we will organise several design studios).

Preferably, the applicant:
• has a Master degree in a design programme.
• has professional knowledge of concrete and its applications.
• has excellent writing skills (in English) for publications and several communications.
• has affinity and experience with architectural design.
• has proven interest in sustainable circular economies through previously conducted research or design activities in the area of research.
• has good academic research skills.

Experience in design education is an advantage.

Fixed-term contract: 2 years.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

For more information about this position, please contact Henri van Bennekom, e-mail: h.a.vanbennekom@tudelft.nl. For information about the procedure, please contact Caro Coemans, HR-BK@tudelft.nl. To apply, please send a motivation letter, CV, list of publications, one publication that is most relevant to the vacancy, and the names and contact details of two references by 28 August 2017 to Mrs. Caro Coemans, HR-BK@tudelft.nl.
When applying for this position, please refer to vacancy number BK2017-11.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

Architecture

The Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment at Delft University of Technology has five departments: Architecture, Architectural Engineering + Technology, OTB, Urbanism, and Real Estate and Housing. The Department of Architecture provides education and conducts research at an internationally competitive level of excellence in the fields of architecture theory, methodology, history, and design.

The project is an international (NWE Interreg) research and design project, in a joint TU Delft cooperation between the chair of Design of Construction of Prof. Ulrich Knaack and the chair of Complex Projects of Prof. Kees Kaan.