Research Associate, Construction Materials
January 13 2025
Industries
Education, Training
Categories Civil engineering, Construction, Structure,
Calgary, AB • Part time
SAIT's Applied Research and Innovation Services department helps partners conceptualize, prototype and deliver products to market. ARIS is on the leading edge of novel technology development. As one of Canada's top applied-research colleges, SAIT has 50,000 square feet of specialized research labs, facilities, and full-time research staff who are solely dedicated to providing the services organizations need to take their products from concept to prototype.
The Opportunity
The Centre for Innovation and Research in Advanced Manufacturing and Materials (CIRAMM) is ARIS' newest centre dedicated to advanced research in the areas of manufacturing and materials science.
The role focuses on the development and optimization of concrete formulations for 3D printing applications in the construction industry. The successful candidate will support ongoing projects through experimentation, data analysis, and the development of industry guidelines to advance eco-friendly and high-performance construction materials, as well as their integration into additive construction.
The Role
- Implement Design of Experiments (DoE) methodologies, including Response Surface Methodology (RSM), to streamline testing protocols and optimize formulations
- Optimize concrete mix designs by incorporating natural, manufactured, recycled, or chemical additives to enhance 3D printability, shape stability, and structural integrity
- Lead and conduct experiments to assess fresh and hardened properties of concrete and masonry materials
- Analyze microstructural properties using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) to evaluate material performance and interlayer bonding
- Design and evaluate 3D printing process parameters, such as print speed, nozzle size, and extrusion rate, to maximize material performance and maintain print quality
- Contribute to the development of industry guidelines and performance evaluation frameworks for integrating low-carbon concrete formulations into 3D printing technologies
- Design and evaluate 3D printing process parameters, such as print speed, nozzle size, and extrusion rate, to maximize material performance and maintain print quality
- Contribute to the development of industry guidelines and performance evaluation frameworks for integrating low-carbon concrete formulations into 3D printing technologies
- Compile and interpret research findings for knowledge dissemination, engaging with clients and project stakeholders
- Prepare and present research findings to stakeholders, ensuring timely delivery of project milestones
- Write clear and concise scientific publications, technical reports, and research grant proposals
- Maintain and repair laboratory equipment
- Maintain an inventory of materials
Qualifications
- Minimum
- Master's or PhD degree in Civil Engineering
- Preferred
- Educational specialization in Civil Engineering, Construction Materials, or a closely related field, with a focus on concrete technology or sustainable materials
- Proven experience in concrete technology and sustainable construction materials
Skills & Knowledge
- Proven expertise in concrete mix design, Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs), admixtures, and material characterization techniques for concrete
- Strong knowledge of ASTM standards for concrete testing, including compressive, tensile, and flexural strength assessments
- Experience in optimizing concrete formulations using statistical modeling tools, such as DoE and RSM
- Hands-on experience with 3D printing technologies and additive manufacturing processes is an asset
- Proficiency in laboratory testing methods for fresh and hardened properties
- Ability to interpret complex data sets and apply findings to improve material performance and formulation processes
- Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to address challenges in concrete mix optimization and printability
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for preparing reports, publications, and presentations
- Track record of writing successful research grants, scientific publications, and technical reports
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite for data compilation and report preparation
- Proficiency in statistical analysis software, such as JMP, SPSS, MATLAB, Origin, or Minitab, is an asset
- Demonstrated understanding of project management concepts
- Willingness to engage in hands-on testing and collaborative research work
- Passion for staying at the forefront of concrete and masonry materials research and a drive to contribute to the advancement of construction technologies
Job classification: Project Coordinator P2043
Hourly rate: $30-$35
Position End Date: December 31, 2025
Posting closing date: January 17, 2025
About SAIT
SAIT is a global leader in applied education. Named one of Alberta's Top Employers, we offer the chance to work with a purpose — preparing the next generation of industry leaders, entrepreneurs, advocates and explorers.
Building on our 100+ year history, we're looking for innovative, bold and collaborative employees who embrace change and deliver world-class customer experiences. Your future starts now at SAIT.
Equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) is essential to achieving SAIT's vision to be a global leader in applied education. We encourage applications from women, Indigenous people, racialized people, people with disabilities, people from gender and sexually diverse communities, and/or people with intersectional identities. Learn more about EDI at SAIT.
At SAIT, we understand that experience comes in many forms. We're dedicated to adding diverse perspectives to SAIT - so if your experience is close to what we're looking for, please consider applying.
SAIT is committed to supporting persons with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. We will work with applicants to provide accommodations upon request to the Talent Advisor.
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