Within an exceptional inter-disciplinary environment, the Lab aims to explore materiality and hybrid construction systems through co-design and co-fabrication with microorganisms and performing vegetation within the context of a circular bioeconomy. Outcome of the applied, research program will be tested and scalable processes, prototypes and projects for Bio-Fabrication, Bio-Assembly, Bio-Repair and Bio-Disassembly of building components and building systems for a regenerative design practice. By 2026 the Lab will become an integrated part of the new Bio-Science Centre at Arenberg Campus in Leuven.
The overall goal of the BioConstuctionLab is to systematically explore, prototype, test and demonstrate the principal aesthetic, ecological and performing potentials of bio-fabrication for design and construction in context of regenerative architecture and circular bioeconomy. A particular focus is on building skins at the interface of macro- and microclimates and natural and urban ecosystems respectively. The Lab aims to synthesize a deep understanding of biofabrication with respect to materials, growth processes, digital fabrication, and engineering principles to develop a new bio-construction methodology. A design driven cross-discipline collaboration with (micro)biologists, material scientists, engineers and experts in digital fabrication is seen as a key enabler to achieve this.
This PhD Project should establish a common ground for Biofabrication and Bioconstruction by developing, testing and evaluating design strategies, materials, systems and prototypes. The key question that this project should answer is how biological classes and processes relate to engineering functions, construction methodologies and regenerative outcomes.
The project should therefore explore interdependencies of the following main aspects:
The successful candidate will play an integral part in developing the BioConstuctionLab at Department of Architecture. The position offers the chance to become a frontrunner in the field of regenerative architecture while immersing yourself in a cutting-edge research topic at interface of architecture, engineering and biology and gaining international exposure as an expert in the field. We are open to candidates from a diverse set of backgrounds as long as they bring the right skills and fit our culture of exploration and excellence. If you recognize yourself in the profile below, we would be delighted receiving your application asap:
Developed digital skills in design, modelling and visualization
Self-motivated with high degree of self-organization
Applicants should have the right to work in the EU
As a PhD candidate you would have the opportunity to pursue your professional development in a stimulating, international and inter-disciplinary research environment, with 4 years of funding. As a member of the Arenberg Doctoral School at KU Leuven you will receive next to a competitive remuneration and benefit package a workplace in a country with a good quality of life and excellent health care system. Benefits include:
As a PhD Researcher, you will be expected to do the following:
For more information please contact Prof. dr. Jan Wurm, mail: jan.wurm@kuleuven.be.
Please submit the following:
· Motivation letter incl. a max. 500-word abstract of a possible research project within the context described above
· Curriculum Vitae
· Examples of your work and link to your website or online portfolio if applicable
· An outline of your proposed PhD research in line with this vacancy
· Contact details of at least two references or two recommendation letters
· Transcript of the grades (if applicable)
· Proof of English proficiency
· Copy of your finished Master’s degree with distinction
All applications submitted before 9th of January 2023 will be given full consideration. After that, the position will remain open until filled. The starting date will be agreed upon between candidate and supervisor, but the aim is to start in March 2023.
In your application, please refer to Professorpositions.com