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 create strategies for the co-development of a master plan (blueprint) for climate adaptation of the built environment in communities of the Global South, employing a holistic approach that spans multiple sectors and engages both intra- and inter-community stakeholders.

The doctoral candidate’s goal is to develop a methodology for the identification, adaptation and implementation of pertinent regenerative construction materials and techniques for climate change adaptation in the unique local context of 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 PhD is for a candidate registered at ÉTS with the direction of Claudiane Ouellet-Plamondon at ÉTS and Guillaume Habert at ETH Zurich.

The doctoral candidate in engineering will have four specific goals:

1. Identify and assessing the benefit potential of regenerative technological solutions for climate change adaptation considering the geographic, socio-economical, and cultural context of the community.
2. Run a life cycle sustainability assessment of the proposed technological solutions.
3. Build and conduct a strategy for the adaptation of the proposed technological solutions to the local context of the case study.
4. Develop knowledge mobilization tools that allow effectively transmitting and embedding the technological solutions within the case study community.

Profile sought (required skills)

• Experience in materials science (mechanical characterization, durability), such as nature-based construction techniques, locally reclaimed materials, modular construction;

• Degree in engineering or another field related to the sciences;

• Ability to lead cultural immersion experiences, interest in climate and societal issues related to construction, particularly in construction materials;

• Ability to write reports, scientific publications, and regular updates;

• Ability to read, write, and communicate in English (required) and French (preferred for ÉTS); Proficiency in Spanish is an asset to work in the communities;

• Willingness to develop novel solutions;

• Autonomous and proactive profile;

• 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.

Starting date

• For local students, it will be September 2024; for international students, according to immigration and 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: PhD - Material Design for Global South_LAST NAME.

Please address the candidacy to Claudiane.Ouellet-Plamondon@etsmtl.ca & Diego.Ramirez-Cardona@etsmtl.ca

Partners of the project

• École de technologie supérieure - ÉTS (Canada), ETH Zurich (Switzerland) and other international partners

Equity, diversity and inclusion

• In terms of hiring, ÉTS adheres to the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion. Career interruptions and slowdowns, as well as the potential for accommodations in the selection process in the event of a disability, will be taken into consideration when evaluating candidates.

About immigration

• We urge all qualified individuals to submit an application in accordance with the requirements set forth in relation to immigration to Canada. However, priority will be given to those who are Canadian citizens as well as long-term residents. It is crucial that you let us know in your application if you have the ability to work in Canada so that we can prepare the appropriate immigration process.