Research Associate in 3D Concrete Printing in Sheffield

We are looking for an experienced Research Associate (PDRA) to join projects funded by the Royal Society and EPSRC. This 9‑month position, hosted within the Structural Engineering research group of the School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering, will investigate the mechanical and durability performance of 3D‑printed concrete materials and structures at multiple length scales. The post holder will work primarily with geopolymer‑ and/or Portland cement‑based binders. The successful candidate should hold a PhD in concrete technology or a related field, with demonstrated expertise in 3D‑printed concrete and geopolymer concrete technologies, and experience conducting independent experimental research.

Main duties and responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain laboratory studies to quantify fresh and hardened properties, durability properties, and structural performance of 3D‑printed concrete materials and structures.
• Manufacture 3D‑printed specimens and evaluate physical and mechanical properties such as pumpability, extrudability, buildability, failure patterns, elastic modulus, compressive strength, flexural strength, anisotropy, and bonding strength.
• Evaluate durability properties of specimens, including carbonation, freeze‑thaw, chloride penetration, corrosion, sulfate, and acid resistance.
• Manufacture 3D‑printed structures and assess their structural performance.
• Use advanced characterisation methods (e.g., XRD, SEM‑EDS, FTIR, TGA, MIP) to study the microstructure of 3D‑printed specimens.
• Read scientific literature to stay current on relevant developments and inform the research programme.
• Plan, prioritise, and schedule experimental work; analyse and interpret results; produce biweekly reports and minutes for supervisory meetings.
• Prepare reports and peer‑reviewed papers for publication.
• Attend scientific meetings, conferences, and deliver written and oral presentations of findings.
• Coordinate with project team members and manage dissemination and outreach activities through websites and other media.
• Support the principles of the University’s academic mission, including teaching, research excellence, and scholarly impact.
• Carry out other duties as required.

Qualifications:

• Hold a PhD in Civil Engineering, Materials Engineering, or a related subject.
• Experience designing and conducting experimental work on fresh, hardened, and durability properties of Portland cement or geopolymer concrete using casting and/or 3D‑printing methods.
• Experience in 3D‑printing concrete studies and developing formulations for 3D‑printing.
• Proficiency with advanced characterisation methods (XRD, SEM‑EDS, FTIR, TGA, MIP).
• Experience studying structural performance of cast/printed structures at various scales.
• Experience working with gantry‑ or robotic‑based concrete 3D printers (desirable).
• Proven IT skills, including Fusion360, Rhino & Grasshopper, and Matlab.
• Effective written and verbal communication, report writing, and presentation skills.
• Record of high‑quality research publications in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Ability to work within a multinational research team, showing initiative and interpersonal skills.

Salary and Details:

• Grade: G7
• Salary: £38,784 – £47,389
• Employment: Full‑time (01 July 2026 – 31 March 2027, with potential 3‑month extension to 30 June 2027)
• Line Manager: Project Lead
• Direct Reports: None

Please contact Dr Behzad Nematollahi (Project Lead) at b.nematollahi@sheffield.ac.uk for inquiries.