Postdoc in Microbial Cement-Based Functional Materials and Energy Storage

We invite applications for a full-time 2-year Postdoctoral position at the Faculty of Engineering and Science, Department of the Built Environment at Aalborg University (Aalborg, Denmark).

The position is part of a pioneering research initiative supported by the Villum Foundation (Villum Experiment), aiming to transform conventional cementitious materials into microbial-enabled functional infrastructure materials with integrated energy storage capabilities. The postdoc will work in a highly interdisciplinary environment with close collaboration across internal research groups at the university as well as with leading international partners, spanning cement chemistry, materials science, microbiology, and electrochemical energy systems. This setting offers a unique opportunity to explore emerging directions in sustainable construction materials while becoming part of a global research community addressing challenges within the green transition.

The position is expected to start on 01 September 2026 or soon thereafter.

Your work tasks

The position focuses on experimental development of cement-based functional materials within a newly established interdisciplinary platform integrating cement chemistry, materials characterization, electrochemical testing, and emerging bio-enabled approaches.

The successful candidates will take a leading role in laboratory-based research, including cement formulation and processing, specimen preparation, microstructural and chemical characterization, and electrochemical performance evaluation. Depending on background and interests, the work may also involve exploring bio-enabled cement systems (e.g., microbial–cement interactions or self-healing concepts) and linking material properties to functional performance.

The postdoc is expected to contribute actively to scientific publications, development of experimental protocols, project planning, and day-to-day laboratory activities, and may also participate in limited teaching and student supervision. The position is highly experimental and suited for candidates who enjoy hands-on research, learning new techniques, and working across disciplinary boundaries.

Your competencies

We seek a highly motivated candidate with a strong background in cement chemistry, cement and concrete materials, materials science, or civil/structural engineering. The ideal candidate has solid hands-on experimental skills and enjoys laboratory-based research. Experience with microbial systems, bio-materials, or bio-electrochemical systems is considered an advantage but is not required.

You should be able to work independently while contributing positively to a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment. We value curiosity, willingness to learn new techniques, and interest in exploring emerging research directions at the interface of materials, biology, and energy systems. Good written and spoken English skills are expected, together with a publication record or clear potential for high-quality scientific output.

Qualification requirements

Appointment as postdoc requires academic qualifications at PhD level.

Who we are

You will join the Department of the Built Environment at Aalborg University. The division conducts research in sustainable construction materials, building performance, and low-carbon technologies, and offers a supportive and international working environment. The group values close collaboration, curiosity-driven research, and problem-oriented approaches to real-world sustainability challenges.

About the team

The position is hosted by a newly established interdisciplinary research team led by Dr. Qi Luo, Tenure Track Assistant Professor at Aalborg University, focusing on sustainable and multifunctional cementitious materials. For insight into the group’s emerging research direction, applicants are also encouraged to consult Dr. Luo’s recent work published in Cell Reports Physical Science, 2025. (DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrp.2025.102810).

How to apply

Your application must include the following:

• Application, stating reasons for applying, qualifications in relation to the position, and intentions and visions for the position
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Diplomas (master's degree diploma and PhD diploma)
• List of publications, with an indication of the attached publications that you wish to be taken into account in the assessment. You may attach a maximum of five publications.
• Documentation of teaching qualifications if relevant.
• Dissemination qualifications, including participation on committees or boards, participation in organisations etc.
• Additional qualifications in relation to the position
• References/recommendations

You can read more about the requirements for your application here.

The application must be submitted via Aalborg University’s recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aalborg University's website.

Aalborg University wants to reflect the surrounding society and has diversity as a core value. Therefore, everyone, regardless of personal background and orientation, is encouraged to apply for the position.

Do you have any questions? If you have any questions about the position, you are more than welcome to contact us. You will find contact persons at the bottom of the jobpost.

Interviews are expected to be held after the application deadline. Further details will be communicated to shortlisted candidates.

Further information

Read more about our recruitment process here.

The appointment process at Aalborg University involves a shortlisting process. You can read more about the shortlisting and appointment process here.

The hiring process at Aalborg University may include a risk assessment as a tool to identify potential risks associated with new hires, ensuring the safety, compliance, and integrity of the workplace.