The research group “sustainability assessments of materials and circular economy” (SAM) of KU Leuven brings together researchers who are motivated to strengthen Circular Economy solutions by well-founded scientific insights. We are convinced a better data and evidence base for the circular economy transition is needed, for which we develop integrated methodologies and new indicators to evaluate and model circular economy and resource efficiency, and to assess the (environmental, social and economic) life cycle impact of materials, products and circular economy business models from a systems perspective. Topics range from economic studies such as the criticality of future supply of metals, optimizing the sustainability of biorefineries, improving and assessing recycling technologies, and product service system business models, monitoring the CE for companies and regions, and developing concepts for information systems to support the CE. Our research is highly inter- and transdisciplinary and we collaborate intensively with companies, ngo’s and governmental administrations, with a strong science-policy interaction, e.g. coordinating the Flemish policy research centre Circular Economy (https://ce-center.vlaanderen-circulair.be/en).
Currently, we are looking for a highly motivated researcher to bring the research in assessing circularity of companies and circular business models to a higher level.
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Responsibilities
The objective of the research is to develop and optimize assessments methods for circular business models and for reporting and managing circularity of companies, including also the related environmental and economic impacts.
The researcher will lead part-time a work package in a Horizon project on the develop of e-textile products and value chains, and part-time on project about integrating sustainability and circularity assessments in business processes. The Horizon project work has as objectives to assess the environmental sustainability, economic viability, and social impacts of the e-textile value chain, to guide development choices with respect circularity, renewability, and general sustainability concerns, and to promote value chain data exchange in the context of circular bioeconomy. Additional projects will revolve around the aim to better assess circularity performance of companies. Starting from existing frameworks, you will elaborate on effective and efficient tools for companies to assess their impact on circular economy and sustainability within the value chains they are operating, which amongst others should lead to well-founded CSRD reporting. Data needs and governance will be part of the development. You will closely interact with the policy research center Circular Economy (https://ce-center.vlaanderen-circulair.be/en).
Besides you will be develop together with the SAM team new proposals in this research area, including the possibility to prepare for individual grants. You will also be involved in (limited) educational tasks and to collaborate in or guide similar projects within the team.
Profile
- You have obtained a PhD in Engineering, with strong interest in economics, or Economics with a strong technology background, or equivalent experience as researcher.
- A good knowledge of LCA is mandatory as well as specific expertise in one or more of the following areas: CSRD reporting, CBA, LCC, economic modelling, system dynamics.
- You should show a strong interest in sustainability issues and global challenges like circular economy as well as in policy design.
- You have a scientific, critical attitude and you are interested in interdisciplinary research
- You have good communication and presentation skills, proficient in English. Knowledge of Dutch is an asset.
- You show leadership in your research area.
Offer
We offer a research position for initially one year, extendable to 3 years, in a very attractive international research environment, with an excellent track record in sustainable materials management and environmental economics.
The position is promoted by Prof. Karel Van Acker (Faculty of Engineering Science, Department Materials Engineering and Faculty of Economics and Business, Centre for Economics and Corporate Sustainability). The research work will be carried out within the KU Leuven materials engineering department in Leuven. The job will include collaboration and information exchange with researchers from different disciplines, industry and policy makers.
Interested?
For more information please contact Prof. dr. Karel Van Acker, tel.: +32 16 32 12 71, mail: karel.vanacker@kuleuven.be.
The application deadline is 1 July 2024, but earlier applications are encouraged and will be considered as soon as they are received. The position can be closed earlier in case a suitable candidate has been found.
Interested applicants should submit:
- an up-to-date CV.
- a motivation letter with a statement of skills and research interests
- a transcript of followed courses + grades
- the names and contact information of 2 references
- an English language certificate (IELTS or TOEFL) or equivalent
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