PhD Candidate - 3D printing of earth-based construction
Centre for Design Innovation, School of Design and Architecture. Full-time, fixed-term (3-year) position at our Hawthorn campus. Help Shape the Future of 3-D-Printed Earthen Housing.
About the Role
Ready to push the boundaries of sustainable construction? We're offering a fully funded, three-year PhD opportunity for someone who wants to help reinvent how housing is designed and built in Australia. If you're excited by 3-D printing, earth-based materials, and real-world impact, this project is for you.
Why This Project?
This PhD sits within an ARC Linkage Project with Luyten 3D and UNSW, giving you the chance to work at the cutting edge of advanced manufacturing. You'll help develop the next generation of 3-D-printed earthen construction systems—technology that could dramatically improve access to affordable, climate-responsive housing in regional and remote communities.
You'll explore questions like:
How can we design a new type of multi-feed extrusion system for clay and fibrous earthen mixes?
How can we engineer earthen materials to print better, build higher, and perform more sustainably?
How can modern fabrication techniques reconnect us with local, culturally grounded building materials?
You'll work directly with industry leaders at Luyten 3D, giving you hands-on experience with cutting-edge approaches to large-scale additive manufacturing. You'll also have access to state-of-the-art fabrication facilities where you can test, prototype, and experiment with advanced 3-D printing technologies.
Throughout the PhD, you will have the freedom to shape your own research direction within the broader project, allowing you to develop a portfolio of work that reflects your interests and strengths. You will also have opportunities to publish your findings, present at conferences, and contribute meaningful impact to the future of sustainable and culturally responsive housing in Australia.
About You
We're looking for a curious, creative, and driven researcher who wants to make a difference through sustainable design and technology.
You'll be a great fit if you have:
An Honours or Master's degree in architectural engineering, civil/materials engineering, architecture, or a related field.
Experience with digital design tools (Rhino, Grasshopper, etc.).
Experience in 3-D construction printing.
Strong experimental, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
A genuine interest in sustainability, digital fabrication, and new construction methods.
Bonus points for:
Experience in clay/earth-based materials.
Knowledge of pumping or extrusion systems.
Research experience or publications.
Qualifications
First Class Honours (H1) award or equivalent; or for exceptional candidates a H2A award.
A master's degree in a relevant field (e.g., architectural, civil, mechanical, product design engineering).
Applications
Please submit your CV and cover letter addressing the Key Selection Criteria and your suitability for this position. Applications close: Monday 19 January ****, at 11:00 pm.
Appointment is subject to passing a Working with Children Check. For technical difficulties with your application, contact the Swinburne Talent Acquisition Team at .
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Swinburne is an equal-opportunity employer, committed to attracting, retaining and developing diverse talent. We encourage applications from Indigenous communities, people with disabilities, and international graduates.
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