Junior Researcher NL, CD

(Junior) Researcher

Interested in bio‑fabricated construction materials? Join this research project that investigates low‑energy, biodegradable, and carbon‑sequestering composites, advancing circularity and regenerative design!

The Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment in Delft University of Technology is looking for a researcher to work on a broader transdisciplinary European research project entitled “Re‑Growth,” supervised by Professor Mauro Overend and Assistant Professor Olga Ioannou. The project is funded by the NEB‑Horizon Europe research program. The broader Re‑Growth project addresses systemic gaps in the sustainable construction ecosystem by developing and validating novel bio‑fabricated materials that unite regenerative design, aesthetic quality, and environmental performance.

Re‑Growth combines science, design, and citizen engagement in a transdisciplinary co‑creation process, delivering a technical and methodological framework for next‑generation bio‑fabricated construction materials, bridging biotechnology, digital design, and societal participation to accelerate Europe’s transition toward circular, inclusive, and beautiful built environments.

In your researcher role at TU Delft you will focus on developing structural bio‑fabricated polymer composites, reinforced laminates, and sandwich panels using microbial extracellular polymeric substances derived from wastewater as a binding matter. These will be functionalised as load‑bearing floors, facades, and wall elements. Research will further explore how these materials perform against structural, thermal, acoustic, fire, health, durability, and aesthetic requirements under variable climatic conditions following EU standards.

Additional considerations will include how these materials are repaired, whether they can enter existing waste systems, and whether they can realistically scale.

You will be part of a transdisciplinary consortium that consists of 15+ members. The candidate(s) will publish scientific articles, participate in international workshops and consortium meetings, and contribute modestly to teaching activities within the faculty.

• A doctoral dissertation or, at minimum, a master’s degree in the field of Materials Engineering or Building Sciences.
• A strong interest in bio‑materials and bio‑fabrication.
• Experience with material processing and product design (graduation thesis relevant to this field of research and/or at least one relevant publication).
• Strong skills in critical thinking, scientific rigor, and creative design‑based research.
• Excellent oral, visual, and written communication skills (in English) – C1 Level.
• The ability to work independently, and as part of a team, and to build collaborative, interdisciplinary/transdisciplinary networks.
• Work experience is not essential but will be considered an asset.

• Candidates will be offered a 3‑year period of employment for 38‑40 hours per week.
• Based on the experience of the candidate, the salary will be placed in different steps within scale 10.
• The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

Faculty/Department:
Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment

Salary range: €3546 - €5538

Hours per week: 38‑40

FTE: 1

Submission is possible until: 9 Jul 2026

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