INSTITUTE OF CEMENT & CONCRETE

Research Assistant / Graduate Assistant in Cement & Concrete Position

Meru University of Science & Technology (MUST) in collaboration with Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM) in Germany are implementing a project titled ‘Circular bio-based intelligent organic and oxide engineering ecosystems – From multiple heterogeneous sources to homogeneous high-tech materials supply streams (Circular B-I/O)’. The project is funded by VolkswagenStiftung foundation. The project seeks to competitively fill the Research Assistant / Graduate Assistant in Cement & Concrete position.

Project Summary
Currently, petrochemical products and industrial residues are used for cement clinker reduction in concrete. However, they could be replaced more sustainably by unused bio-based agricultural and aquacultural by-products. Compared to industrial residues, however, bio-based residues occur widely dispersed in multiple small deposits and are subject to seasonal fluctuations. Thus, many small heterogeneous material streams must be bundled into a few homogeneous supply streams for the construction industry. The project aims to close this gap and investigates the necessary ecosystems linked to the technological conversion of bio-based by-products to high-performance building material constituents, both before the conversion and in the subsequent utilization in materials and structures. Decision-making systems supported by artificial intelligence will be developed to assess the technologically and socio-economically most sustainable use and to optimize mineral oxides as cement substitutes. The concepts developed in the Kenyan pilot will be extrapolated to the European frameworks and raw materials. The overall goal is to develop sound policy advice for the worldwide application.

The specific project objectives are;
i) To develop and assess the framework for the waste collection, the livelihoods linked to it and the circularity potentials.
ii) To scale up the three-step conversion process for large scale and prove the concept.
iii) To assess whether the concept of converting multiple-heterogenous small supply streams into limited homogenous, supplies for the construction industry.
iv) Development of training workshops that inform but also deliver data for the final policy advice derived from the research.
v) Policy advice, recommendations, tangible, reliable, and scalable data.

Location
This is a full-time position based in Meru-Kenya. The Research Assistant / Graduate Assistant will be primarily based at the Institute of Cement and Concrete, Meru University of Science & Technology, Meru-Kenya.

Job Overview
As a Research Assistant / Graduate Assistant, you will be responsible for conducting physical, chemical, and mechanical tests on cementitious materials including clinker, clay, limestone, and other cementitious materials. You will work alongside researchers and engineers to generate accurate data for sustainable construction material development.

Key Responsibilities:
• Prepare and test cement, clay, limestone, agro-wastes, industrial wastes and concrete samples using standardized procedures
• Perform analyses such as TGA, XRD, particle size analysis, strength testing
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, including logs, test results, and equipment calibration reports
• Ensure laboratory equipment is properly maintained and calibrated
• Follow established safety procedures and quality assurance protocols
• Support data analysis and contribute to technical reporting
• Collaborate with senior researchers and engineers on project tasks and experimental design
• Stay informed on new laboratory techniques and advancements relevant to cement technology

Qualifications:
• Atleast a Bachelor of Science in Cement & Concrete / Chemistry / Geology /Mineral processing Engineering /Material Science or an equivalent degree.
• Have solid knowledge of cement and concrete
• MUST demonstrate proof of registration and/or admission in the Master of Science in Cement and Concrete program at the Institute of Cement and Concrete
• Prior work experience in a cement and concrete and/or concrete admixtures testing laboratory is an advantage
• Knowledge of cement chemistry and testing standards (e.g., KS, EAS, ASTM, EN) is highly desirable
• Familiarity with laboratory instruments such as TGA, XRD, physical, chemical testing laboratory equipment as well as pyrolysis processes.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Good communication skills for documentation and teamwork

How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit the following in one PDF file to icc@must.ac.ke with the subject line: Research Assistant / Graduate Assistant:
• Motivation letter
• Certified copies of academic degree certificate and transcripts
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) including three (3) referees with contact details
• Copy of National ID or passport biometric page
• Admission letter in the Master of Science in Cement and Concrete program

Notes
i) Applications and related documents should be forwarded addressed to the;
Director
Institute of Cement & Concrete
Meru University of Science & Technology
P.O Box 972-60200
Meru-Kenya
ii) Applications should be emailed as one file in PDF: icc@must.ac.ke
iii) Closing date: Friday,17th October,2025.
iv) Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
For enquiries, contact Director, Institute of Cement & Concrete, Email: director.icc@must.ac.ke