University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil

Within the scope of the research project entitled Advanced Eco-Efficient Cement-Based Technologies – AECem, the Research Nucleus on Materials for Biosystems (NAP BioSMat), the University of São Paulo (USP), Brazil is currently searching for a post-doctoral fellow applicant associated to the above-mentioned long-term project.

The project, which is under the Program of Brazilian National Institutes of Science and Technology (INCT), aims to develop and extend the expertise of different technologies to achieve more sustainable cementitious products. The main approach for this purpose is the reduction of greenhouse effect emissions, energy demand, production water intake and natural resources. Given the expectations of population growth and expansion of civil infrastructure in developing countries, economical factors are also essential for sustainable development due to the limited financial funds in these areas.

The specific objectives to be achieved by the drafted candidate are:
– The increase of the efficiency of binders to attend the demand of cementitious composites, reducing the environmental impact;
– The development of functional nanoparticles and fibers in order to improve the functionality and performance of the final products;
– The implementation of tools to optimize the CO2 footprint of the materials.

The candidate is required to focus on the evaluation of new binder systems to embody CO2 in the cementitious materials by carbonation of alternative cements together with the incorporation of lignocellulosic particles. The tasks to be performed by the candidate may include:
– Functional treatments and nanofibrillation of lignocellulosic fibers for high performance applications;
– Interfacial transition zone of vegetable-fiber / cement;
– Fast carbonation as a curing procedure for fiber cement composite materials;
– Optimization of alternative cementitious binders;
– Evaluation of cement-based pastes hydration over time, with mechanical and micro-structural characterization;
– Physical, chemical and mineralogical characterization of the biomass ashes with the aim of assessing the possible pozzolanic activity;
– Establishment of a scientific and technical base on the feasibility to produce cement added with agro-industrial ashes.

Eligible and interested candidates must have a Ph.D./doctorate completed with less than seven years and research experience in construction materials, agro-industrial residues, pozzolanic materials, and techniques for characterization of the materials (or other related topics). Strong oral and written communication skills in English and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multi-disciplinary team are essential and very much appreciated. Robust publication of the scientific results in international referenced Journals with high impact, well-defined and selective editorial process is strongly valorized in the selection process.

To apply, please submit your letter of interest, complete curriculum vitae, and references to Holmer Savastano Jr., Professor, NAP BioSMat – FZEA-USP, by either conventional postage service to Avenida Duque de Caxias, 225, ZIP Code 13635-900. Phone: 55 19 99417 7040, or preferably via email to holmersj@usp.br (with subject “PD FAPESP BioSMat”), until December 10th, 2020.

Additional information about the FAPESP grant:
Hours: 40 h/week (full time);
Period: 16 months (expected beginning until March 2021);
Scholarship: BRL$ 7.373,10 per month.