KNUST Center for Engineering Materials Research, KCEMR (Materials Engineering Department)

Training Opportunity at the University of Padova, Italy

1. Overview of the Postgraduate Positions

The KNUST Center for Engineering Materials Research, KCEMR at the Department of Materials Engineering, College of Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) 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) for a three-month period. 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 TNE at the Department of Geosciences, University of Padua, Italy.

2. Research Theme

In the future, advanced materials are expected to play a pivotal role in addressing global challenges related to sustainability, energy, and resource efficiency. The development of multifunctional materials – ranging from bio-derived polymers and nanostructured composites to high-performance alloys and ceramics – will enable new capabilities in sectors such as energy storage, electronics, construction, clean water and environmental remediation. The widespread adoption of these materials will, however, depend not only on the availability of raw or renewable feedstocks but also on the ability to tailor their structure-property relationships through innovative processing techniques and technologies. This project aims to explore the effects of material design strategies, including doping, surface modification, and hybridization, etc. on the functional performance of emerging materials. Additionally, the impact of various processing conditions on the properties of these materials will be systematically evaluated.

3. Program Overview

TNE facilitates student mobility, fostering academic collaboration and research excellence. The TNE 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 for this enriching experience in a new environment. Selected student(s) will undertake three months studies and research at the University of Padova, with the coursework and research being recognised under the KNUST and the University of Padova institutional agreement. TNE provides a stipend to cover subsistence costs, including accommodation.

4. Eligibility

1. Must be a registered student pursuing PhD degree at KNUST in Materials Engineering, Civil Engineering or any related discipline. 
2. Committed to undertake the program for the entire duration at the University of Padova, Italy
3. Demonstrate prior research experience with the cement and concrete industry will be an added advantage
4. Basic knowledge of Italian language & culture is an added advantage

5. Program Duration

The successful students will conduct their studies at the University of Padova for three (3) months.

6. Stipend and benefits

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

7. Travel Costs

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

8. Application Process

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

1. Motivation letter.
2. Valid passport (biometric page only).
3. Copies of Bachelor’s degree certificates and transcripts.
4. A concept note that aligns 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)
5. Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing qualifications, experience, and three referees with their contact information.

9. Submission Details

1. Compile all documents into a single PDF file.
2. Email the PDF to hod.mateng@knust.edu.gh   
3. Application Deadline is 15th April, 2025.

10.  Contact for Inquiries

For all inquiries, please contact Dr. Martinson Nartey Email: maddonartey@knust.edu.gh

11. Additional Notes

1. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

1. Qualified women, people living with disabilities and from other diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.