The transition toward carbon-neutral infrastructure is accelerating the development of low-carbon cementitious materials. However, their long-term performance remains insufficiently understood, and existing durability assessment methods developed for conventional concrete cannot always be directly applied. At the same time, knowledge relevant to transport phenomena has accumulated across multiple length scales, ranging from atomistic simulations describing ion–solid interactions to laboratory characterization and field observations of structural deterioration. Integrating these complementary sources of knowledge into a coherent scientific framework remains a major challenge in concrete materials science.
This PhD project aims to develop a physics-based understanding of transport phenomena in cementitious materials across multiple length scales, with particular emphasis on chloride ingress in low-carbon concrete. The research will combine experimental investigation, theoretical modelling, molecular-scale knowledge, and observations from real structures to identify the physicochemical mechanisms governing transport and durability. Particular attention will be paid to establishing links between atomistic processes, microstructural evolution, and engineering-scale durability indicators.
Artificial intelligence will be explored as a supporting tool for organizing and integrating scientific knowledge from diverse sources, while the primary objective remains the development of fundamental understanding rather than purely data-driven prediction. The knowledge and methodologies developed in this project are expected to contribute to more reliable durability assessment and service-life prediction for sustainable concrete infrastructure.
Role and responsibilities
- Conduct experimental research on ion transport and durability in cementitious materials.
- Investigate the links between molecular-scale simulations, material characterization, and engineering-scale durability indicators.
- Present research progress and results at conferences in Japan, including JCI and AIJ, as well as at international conferences.
- Publish research results in peer-reviewed journals.
- Contribute to the supervision of undergraduate and Master’s students in the laboratory.
Your profile
- Hold, or expect to obtain before enrollment, a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field.
- Have a strong interest in cementitious materials, transport phenomena, durability, or multiscale modelling.
- Be motivated to conduct both experimental and analytical research.
- Have the ability to work independently while communicating regularly with the supervisor and other laboratory members.
- Have sufficient English proficiency for research, academic writing, and presentations.