PhD Position - Development of a computational infrastructure for the cross-disciplinary design of fully-recycled concrete structures

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from material extraction, manufacturing of construction products, as well as construction and renovation of buildings are estimated at 5-12% of global emissions. Concrete, as we know it today, is one of the most relevant construction materials in terms of carbon footprint, raw materials usage, and structural usage. Huge amounts of GHG are emitted during concrete production, mainly because of the high calcination temperatures needed to produce cement clinker (about 40%) and to decarbonise limestone (about 60%). This, in total, amounts to about 8% of global CO2 emissions. Also, one m³ of concrete requires 2,6 tons of construction minerals, so concrete construction accounts for about 50% of all material extracted for. Climate-neutral concretes and applications are a global research theme of high interest, but none of the current concepts have a full net-zero-carbon impact because they bring partial and mostly fragmented solutions that cannot stand up to the technical demands of AEC. 

The Block Research Group (BRG) in the Institute of Technology in Architecture (ITA) within the Department of Architecture (D-ARCH) at ETH Zurich, led by Prof. Dr. Philippe Block and Dr. Tom Van Mele, focuses on the structural design of efficient and innovative structures inspired by the master builders of the past. BRG’s research combines the concepts of “strength through geometry” and “material effectiveness” with computational design and digital fabrication methods to reduce carbon emissions and resource consumption. Through a project-driven approach, these base principles and methodologies are continuously tested against real-world requirements and constraints in diverse global contexts.

The CARBCOMN project, funded by the Horizon EIC 2023 Pathfinder Challenges, has created two exciting PhD positions within the Block Research Group. These positions provide an exceptional opportunity to contribute to pioneering zero-carbon concrete structures. Candidates will collaborate closely with both industry and academic partners, leveraging and expanding their expertise to shape a new digital AEC design paradigm. This approach focuses on designing and analysing discrete structural geometries with integrated post-tensioning systems, using fully recycled concrete-like materials. The goal is to enhance circularity and significantly reduce the environmental impact of the AEC industry.

Start: January 2025

Duration: 4 years

This position will focus on developing a customised, multi-resolution Building Information Model (BIM) tailored for discrete element structures with integrated post-tensioning systems. This BIM will serve as a central source of information and facilitate exchanges across various aspects of the integrated development process, including design (e.g. volumetric model, structural geometry), fabrication (e.g. material data, machining constraints), analysis (e.g. FEA, DEM, LCA), and construction (e.g. site logistics, measurements, digital twin).

You have a M.Sc. degree in civil engineering or building engineering/architecture, 

• Programming: Proficiency in Python 
• Good knowledge of IFC standards, existing BIM software, geometry processing, and data management
• Motivation to work in a multidisciplinary and multicultural environment
• This project is embedded within a large European consortium; therefore, excellent written and oral communication are essential
• Language: English

• Your career with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society.
• We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university.
• You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits.