The Advanced Materials and Building Efficiency Research Laboratory (AMBER Lab) at New York University Abu Dhabi is seeking a postdoctoral associate to engage in the development, characterization, and applications of sustainable construction materials derived from desalination waste. This role will encompass innovations in brine-to-cement technologies and advancements in low-carbon binders such as reactive magnesium oxide cement (RMC) and belite-calcium sulfoaluminate (BCSA) systems.
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The successful candidate will contribute to four primary research areas:
- Designing and developing energy-efficient chemical and ion-exchange processes to recover minerals from desalination reject brine.
- Producing innovative building materials using recovered minerals like brucite (Mg(OH)₂) and CaCO₃ to create RMC- and BCSA-based composites.
- Investigating carbonation and hydration mechanisms in sustainable binders at the nanoscale via advanced in-situ characterization techniques.
- Evaluating the environmental impact of recovered materials through life-cycle assessment (LCA) and conducting life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA).
This position presents a unique avenue to lead the research in sustainable binders that tackle both brine management and CO₂ emissions reduction challenges. The hired individual will be an integral part of a vibrant, multidisciplinary team encompassing PhD-level scientists, graduate, and undergraduate students at the convergence of water treatment, materials science, and civil engineering.
Location:
Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates (On-site)
Work Conditions:
Full-time
Qualifications:
- Experience in synthesizing and characterizing cementitious composites.
- Proficiency in analytical techniques such as XRD, SEM, TGA/DSC, NMR, and synchrotron-based methods for hydration/carbonation studies.
- A background in Portland cement, reactive MgO cements, BCSA systems, or other low-carbon binders.
- Experience with chemical precipitation, ion-exchange processes, or mineral recovery techniques is a plus.
- Familiarity with life-cycle assessment (LCA) and/or life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA) in construction materials is advantageous.
- A Ph.D. in Civil Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field, along with an undergraduate degree.
- Strong interpersonal, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities are preferred.
Application Requirements:
To apply, candidates must provide:
- A cover letter
- CV
- Statement of research interests
- Contact information for at least two references
- A transcript
Documents should be submitted in PDF format. For inquiries, please reach out to Dr. Kemal Celik at [email protected].
Additional Terms:
The employment terms are competitive and include housing and educational subsidies for children. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and candidates will be considered until the position is filled.
Language Requirements:
Effective communication skills in English are essential.
Diversity Statement:
NYU Abu Dhabi is dedicated to promoting a culture of non-discrimination, anti-harassment, dignity, and mutual respect. UAE Nationals are encouraged to apply.
