Job description
Concrete is a quasi-brittle material with low tensile strength, so engineers have to rely on steel reinforcement. This project explores a different approach: nature has already perfected the art of turning brittle minerals into tough materials, like the nacre in seashells, by combining them with soft organic polymers. This project proposes a method to mimic this by using 3D-printed concrete as a scaffold to guide the growth of a chitinous fungal network. The result is a new class of living composite materials that are not only structurally resilient but also inherently sustainable, moving us toward a future where infrastructure is grown, not just built.
In this project, we aim to prove the concept of hard/soft concrete composites. The research will include:
- Computational modelling and optimization of concrete architectures
- Experimental testing and validation of developed architectures
Therefore, experience in numerical concrete modelling with commercial (e.g., Abaqus) and/or self-developed tools is essential. Experimental experience is a plus.
Currently, in our section of Materials & Environment, we are conducting several research projects on architectured concrete and concrete metamaterials. This project will be the first in our department focusing on hard/soft composites.
As a postdoc, you will contribute to setting up this research direction and possible follow-up projects.
The postdoc will be hosted in the section of Materials & Environment, Department of Materials, Mechanics, Management & Design of TU Delft, which is at the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences. In the M&E section, experimental and modelling projects are ongoing with focus on construction materials.
Job requirements
We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher who can independently plan, execute, deliver and communicate their research effectively. The successful candidate needs to have obtained a PhD in engineering, with experience in concrete modelling and experimentation. The candidate should also have a proven track record in scientific publishing. A good command of English (written and spoken) is crucial.
Since the position is part-time (0.6 fte), it is preferred if the candidate is already in the Netherlands.
TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.
At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.
Challenge. Change. Impact!
Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences
The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology, and delta technology. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource availability, urbanisation and clean water. Our research projects are conducted in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced of the importance of open science and supports its scientists in integrating open science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.
Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences.
Conditions of employment
- Duration of contract is 9 months. Temporary.
- A job of 24 hours per week.
- Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
- An excellent pension scheme via the ABP.
- The possibility to compile an individual employment package every year.
- Discount with health insurers on supplemental packages.
- Flexible working week.
- Every year, 232 leave hours (at 38 hours). You can also sell or buy additional leave hours via the individual choice budget.
- Plenty of opportunities for education, training and courses.
- Partially paid parental leave
- Attention for working healthy and energetically with the vitality program.
Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands. .
Additional information
For more information about this vacancy, please contact Branko Šavija: b.savija@tudelft.nl
Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 17 May 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
You can address your application to Branko Šavija.
Please note:
- You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
- As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by the candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest. You can find more information about this assessment on our website about knowledge security.
- Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.
