Development of a methodology for the co-design of construction materials and techniques for increased resilience and adaptation to climate change
The main goal of this project is to devise strategies for the co-development of a master plan (blueprint) for climate adaptation of the built environment in a community of the Global South, employing a holistic approach that spans multiple sectors and engages both intra- and inter-community stakeholders.
The Master candidate’s goal is to devise and implement participatory tools to promote the co-design of technological solutions for the climate adaptation of the built environment in the community that will serve as case study. These include, but are not limited to, nature-based construction techniques, locally reclaimed materials, modular construction, and energy efficiency improvements. The candidate will work in close collaboration with a PhD candidate involved in the project. This work will be carried out under the direction of Diego Ramirez Cardona and Claudiane Ouellet-Plamondon of École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS) and Harlem Acevedo Agudelo of Instituto Tecnológico Metropolitano (ITM) Medellin, Colombia.
The Master candidate in engineering will have two specific goals:
- Develop knowledge mobilization tools that allow effectively transmitting the technological solutions within the case study community.
- Contribute to the proposal and implementation of a roadmap to adapt the technological solutions to the local context of the case study, guided by the outcomes of the participatory actions with the community.
Starting date
- For local students, it will be September 2024; for international students, it will be between September and December 2024, according to administrative procedures.
Instructions to apply
The applications will be handled continuously and in a confidential manner.
The interested parties must send the specified documents in the manner described below:
- a one-page research proposal;
- a curriculum vitae with a list of publications;
- and a letter of motivation.
The documents must be addressed by email to by July 30, 2024. The subject of the e-mail must be: MSc-Co Design for Climate Change Adaptation_LAST NAME.
Please address the candidacy to diego.ramirez-cardona@etsmtl.ca & Claudiane.Ouellet-Plamondon@etsmtl.ca
Required knowledge
- Experience in materials science (mechanical characterization, durability), related to one or more of the technologies to be considered during the co-design processes (These include, but are not limited to, nature-based construction techniques, locally reclaimed materials, modular construction, and energy efficiency improvements);
- Autonomous and proactive profile;
- Degree in engineering or another field related to the sciences would be ideal;
- Ability to lead cultural immersion experiences;
- Ability to write reports, scientific publications, and regular updates;
- Ability to read, write, and communicate in English (required) and French (preferred); Proficiency in Spanish is an asset;
- Interest in interdisciplinary work, experience in this is an asset;
- Capacity to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team;
- Interest in climate and societal issues related to construction, particularly in construction materials.