Overview of the Postgraduate Positions

The Institute of Cement & Concrete, Meru University of Science & Technology (MUST) in collaboration with the Department of Geosciences, University of Padua, Italy is pleased to announce an exciting opportunity for postgraduate students to participate in the Transnational Education Initiatives programme (TNE). TNE Programme Higher Education Student Mobility. This program enables academic and research mobility between the two institutions. The program seeks to competitively fill the position(s) of postgraduate student(s) for the for TNE Programme Program at the Department of Geosciences, University of Padua, Italy.

Research Theme

In the future, low carbon cements are expected to gain more traction due to their potential to lessen the carbon footprint in construction industry. Ternary blended cement systems such as calcined clay cement with limestone and/or volcanic ashes, industrial/agro wastes are some examples of such binder systems. The adoption of low carbon cement systems and extensive application, however, will largely depend on the availability of supplementary cementitious materials but more importantly, chemical admixtures that will enable better control of their workability, set behavior, and strength development, among other key considerations. This study aims to investigate influence of early strength enhancers, set retarders, and superplasticizers for those binders. Furthermore, the impact of adding minerals, like artificial gypsum, on the rheology of low-carbon cement systems will be evaluated.

Program Overview

The TNE Programme program facilitates the student mobility, fostering academic collaboration and research excellence. Selected student (s) will undertake studies and research at the University of Padova, with the coursework and research being recognized under the Meru University of Science and Technology and the University of Padova institutional agreement. The TNE program provides a stipend to cover subsistence costs, which can include accommodation. This TNE programme exchange program offers an exceptional opportunity for postgraduate students to advance their academic and research careers in collaboration with a prestigious European institution. We encourage eligible candidates to apply and take advantage of this enriching experience in a new environment.

Eligibility

1. 1. 1. Must be a registered student pursuing PhD degree in Chemistry at Meru University of Science & Technology
      2. Must show evidence of successful completion of Applied Mineralogy or Advanced Cement and Concrete Course(s) or equivalent
      3. Commitment to undertake the program for the entire duration at the University of Padova, Italy
      4. Demonstrated prior research experience with the cement and concrete industry will be an added advantage
      5. Basic knowledge of Italian language & culture is an added advantage

Program Duration

The successful students will conduct their studies at the University of Padova for three (3) months. This is scheduled to start in October, 2025

Stipend and benefits

The successful postgraduate students visiting the University of Padova will receive a monthly stipend to cover their subsistence costs.

Travel Costs

The scholarship will cover the costs of travel to the University of Padova (Italy) during the exchange program.

Application Process

Interested postgraduate students are invited to submit their applications. The application should include:

1. 1. 1. Motivation letter.
      2. Valid passport (biometric page only).
      3. Certified copies of Master’s degree as well as the Bachelor’s degree certificates and transcripts.
      4. Applications and related documents should be forwarded and addressed to the Director, Institute of Cement & Concrete, Meru University of Science & Technology, Meru-Kenya, P.O Box 972-60200, Meru-Kenya.
      5. A Ph.D concept note aligning with the research theme. The concept should include background, problem statement, possible research questions /hypotheses, objectives, methodology, work plan, and budget (Maximum 15 pages– including bibliography, front: Times New Roman, font size 12pt, margin 1-inch, single line spacing)
      6. Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing qualifications, experience, and three referees with their contact information.

Submission Details

• • • Compile all documents into a single PDF file.
    • Email the PDF to icc@must.ac.ke.
    • Application Deadline is on 15^th April, 2025.

Contact for Inquiries

For any inquiries, please contact Ms. Emily Mukiri Email: emukiri@must.ac.ke

Additional Notes

1. 1. 1. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
      2. Qualified women, people living with disabilities and from other diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.