Sustainability and circularity assessments of biobased composite value chains

Job title:

Sustainability and circularity assessments of biobased composite value chains

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Job description

Offer DescriptionThe research group “sustainability assessments of materials and circular economy” (SAM) of KU Leuven brings together researchers who are motivated to strengthen Circular Economy solutions by well-founded scientific insights. We are convinced a better data and evidence base for the circular economy transition is needed, for which we develop integrated methodologies and new indicators to evaluate and model circular economy and resource efficiency, and to assess the (environmental, social and economic) life cycle impact of materials, products and circular economy business models from a systems perspective. Topics range from economic studies such as the criticality of future supply of metals, optimizing the sustainability of biorefineries, improving and assessing recycling technologies, and product service system business models, monitoring the CE for companies and regions, and developing concepts for information systems to support the CE. Our research is highly inter- and transdisciplinary and we collaborate intensively with companies, ngo’s and governmental administrations, with a strong science-policy interaction, e.g. coordinating the Flemish policy research centre Circular Economy ( ).Currently, we are looking for a highly motivated researcher to carry out research in the field of sustainability and circularity assessments for the bioeconomyProjectThe primary objective of the research is to assess the environmental sustainability impact and circularity of new biobased composite products and their value chains. The research will build further on the vast experience of the SAM team in LCA and circularity indicators developments and will be used to optimize the processes in the value chain of composite products for wind mills, for construction and for the automotive. Prospective LCA will be further developed, and adapted to deal with a large number of scenarios. The methods will be made apt to include in product design processes of companies and to be compatible with information systems for the CE.The research is embedded in a larger EU Horizon project, in which new fully biobased composites will be developed. This gives you the opportunity to collaborate intensively with high level researchers and companies in this field. The assessments will be used to determine hotpots in the product development and will help to optimize them.You will prepare a PhD elaborating on advanced sustainability and circularity assessments, including prospective LCA, and circularity metrics for biobased products, and use this models to study the effects of future technologies and markets. You will also be involved in (limited) educational tasks and to collaborate in similar projects within the team.Profile

• You have a Master of Science in Engineering (Engineering Science, Engineering Technology or Bioscience Engineering). You have preferably obtained this degree in 2023 or later, with at least cum laude as a grade.
• Knowledge of LCA is mandatory as well as specific expertise in one or more of the following areas: biobased materials, composites, product design processes.
• You should show a strong interest in sustainability issues and global challenges like circular economy.
• You have a scientific, critical attitude and you are interested in interdisciplinary research
• You have good communication and presentation skills, proficient in English.
• You have an independent working style.
• Experience as a researcher is welcome but not mandatory.

OfferWe offer a research position for initially one year, extendable to a 4 year funded PhD after the first year given a positive evaluation, in a very attractive international research environment, with an excellent track record in sustainable materials management and environmental economics.The position is promoted by Prof. Karel Van Acker (Faculty of Engineering Science, Department Materials Engineering and Faculty of Economics and Business, Centre for Economics and Corporate Sustainability). The research work will be carried out within the KU Leuven materials engineering department in Leuven. The job will include collaboration and information exchange with researchers from different disciplines, industry and policy makers. One of the projects the researcher/postdoc will work on is a granted Horizon project.Interested?For more information please contact Prof. dr. Karel Van Acker, tel.: +32 16 32 12 71, mail: .The application deadline is 31 July 2024, but earlier applications are encouraged and will be considered as soon as they are received. The position can be closed earlier in case a suitable candidate has been found.Interested applicants should submit:– an up-to-date CV.– a motivation letter with a statement of skills and research interests– a transcript of followed courses + grades– an English language certificate (IELTS or TOEFL).KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you atWhere to apply WebsiteRequirementsResearch Field Architecture Years of Research Experience 1 – 4Research Field Economics Years of Research Experience 1 – 4Research Field Economics Years of Research Experience 1 – 4Research Field Engineering Years of Research Experience 1 – 4Research Field Engineering Years of Research Experience 1 – 4Research Field Technology Years of Research Experience 1 – 4Additional InformationWebsite for additional job detailsWork Location(s)Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute KU Leuven Country Belgium City Leuven Postal Code 3000 Street Oude Markt 13Contact CityLeuven WebsitePostal Code3000STATUS: EXPIREDShare this page

Expected salary

Location

Louvain, Brabant Flamand

Job date

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 02:06:03 GMT

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