PhD Position on the Impact of Extreme Events on Structures

About the role

The Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment at Delft University of Technology seeks a motivated PhD researcher for the NWO‑KIC Nature‑based Solutions project “School Greenovation”. The four‑year doctoral position focuses on nature‑inclusive, climate‑resilient renovation of school buildings, aiming to improve health, biodiversity, and carbon performance.

Key responsibilities

• Map state‑of‑the‑art nature‑inclusive, climate‑resilient approaches and assess current demonstrator conditions.
• Develop regenerative refurbishment strategies together with local stakeholders.
• Translate strategies into clear, tailored renovation guidelines for each school demonstrator.
• Design and construct scaled models and 1:1 prototypes for experimental validation.
• Produce high‑impact scientific publications and present findings at international conferences.
• Collaborate within a transdisciplinary consortium of 15+ members and conduct real‑life experiments in three Dutch schools.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in architecture, built environment, sustainability, material science or a related field.
• Strong interest in biobased materials, biodiversity, and climate‑resilient design.
• Ability to work interdisciplinary with designers, school boards, construction firms, and policymakers.
• Excellent research, analytical, and scientific writing skills.

Required skills

What we offer

• Four‑year fully funded PhD position leading to a doctoral degree from TU Delft.
• Access to cutting‑edge research facilities and a vibrant international research network.
• Opportunities to influence sustainable school renovation practices worldwide.