Lead Researcher - Circular Concrete

Position: Lead Researcher - C2CA Technology

Location: Groot Handelsgebouw, Rotterdam

Experience: 3 - 6 years in concrete / cement R&D

Type: Full-time - Impact-driven - Startup

About C2CA

Together with Dura Vermeer and C2CA Technology, we are building the first-of-its-kind factory to upcycle waste concrete into sustainable building materials. We are an innovative startup on a mission to reduce the 8% of global CO emissions caused by cement production. With roots in Delft University and GBN, we are scaling up from lab to commercial reality. And we need you to help get us there.

Your role as Lead Researcher

As our Lead Researcher, you'll be at the core of our innovation efforts. Working at the intersection of science and application, you'll coordinate and execute hands-on research to optimize the performance of our circular concrete. You will take ownership of key R&D projects and collaborate closely with PhDs, engineers, and external labs to develop, test and validate new materials and processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute R&D projects focused on upcycle waste concrete into high-performance, low-carbon materials.
• Develop and implement research plans; conduct and supervise lab testing on cementitious materials and SCMs.
• Coordinate and supervise experiments, while working hands-on in the lab.
• Guide and support PhDs and interns in planning and experimentation.
• Document findings and report progress to internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with top universities and industrial labs on joint research initiatives.
• Contribute to publications, grant writing and conference activities.
• Act as the technical point-of-contact for lab testing and concrete innovation.
• Stay up-to-date on developments in circular concrete and share insights with the team.

Why join us?

• A high-impact role in a fast-growing, mission-driven startup.
• Contributing to a circular economy and climate-positive innovation.
• The opportunity to lead our innovative R&D projects in a startup with global aspirations.
• The chance to shape the future of sustainable concrete.
• International collaborations with top universities and industry leaders.
• Daily work at the intersection of science, technology, and sustainability.
• Equity options (ESOP) to grow with the company's success.
• Flexible work environment - hybrid work with at least 25% presence in the Netherlands.
• International collaborations with top universities and industry leaders.

What you bring

• PhD in Materials Science, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• 3 - 6 years of relevant R&D experience involving cement, concrete or SCMs.
• Strong grasp of R&D principles, lab methodologies, and data analysis.
• Practical, hands-on experience with lab-scale testing and material characterization.
• Familiarity with cement and concrete standards, mix design and durability testing.
• Takes initiative and enjoys solving complex challenges.
• Comfortable in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with a hands-on, adapting to changing priorities.
• Fluent in English; Dutch is a plus.
• Based within commuting distance of Rotterdam or willing to relocate on short notice.

Ready to lead the science behind circular concrete?

We'd love to hear from you. Join us and make an impact where it matters most. Even if you don't meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply - your unique background might be just what we need.