PRR Project

Summary

The Chair in Sustainable Construction will play a pivotal role in leading and managing the Research and Development (R&D) unit focused on advancing sustainable construction practices. This role requires a professional with a strong background in sustainable construction, research leadership, and strategic planning. The individual will be responsible for guiding a team of researchers, collaborating with industry partners, and driving innovative projects to promote environmentally friendly and socially responsible construction methods.The Chair in Sustainable Construction should have strong and coherent leadership by providing strategic direction for the R&D unit, aligning research goals with the organization´s mission and objectives, and developing and implementing a comprehensive research strategy to advance sustainable construction practices. As a team management should lead, mentor, and manage a multidisciplinary team of researchers and project managers, thus fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment, ensuring effective communication and knowledge sharing within the team. Should also oversee the design, planning, and execution of research projects related to sustainable construction; and ensure that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet high-quality standards. Strengthening and enlarging the networking should establish and maintain collaborative partnerships with external stakeholders, including industry partners, academic institutions, industrial associations, and research organizations; seek and secure funding opportunities through grant applications, partnerships, and other funding sources. Staying updated on emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in the field should also facilitate the technology transfer of findings into practical applications and innovations in sustainable construction, implementing quality assurance processes to maintain the integrity of research outcomes and ensuring that all research activities comply with ethical standards, regulatory requirements, and organizational policies. Should prepare and present regular reports on the progress of research projects to internal and external stakeholders, and communicate research findings through publications, presentations, and other channels. Finally, should develop and manage the budget for the R&D unit, allocating resources efficiently and effectively.The scientific profile includes a PhD in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Architecture, Sustainable Development, or a related field, proven experience in leading research teams with a focus on sustainable construction, and a strong understanding of environmental, economic, and social considerations in construction. The researcher should have a deep knowledge of the LCA and LCC methodology, including main national and international standards (e.g., ISO 14040, ISO 14044) and regulatory bodies (e.g., CT 171, CT 217, CT 224); circular economy principles of the, with a focus on the AEC sector, including European directives and regulatory bodies developed or in progress (e.g., CT 218); GHG Protocol (Scope 1, 2 and 3), with a focus on the construction sector; solid understanding of the European Taxonomy and Sustainability Reporting standards; and previous experience in managing RCDs and preparing environmental assessment reports for different purposes and clients; and be proficient in one or more environmental assessment software (e.g., SimaPro, Open LCA, One Click LCA);Experience in systems for assessing the environmental merit of buildings (e.g., LEED, BREEAM); Previous experience participating in research projects, including developing proposals, writing reports, and publishing scientific articles; Ability to organize, adapt, analyze and solve problems; Strong spirit of initiative and proactivity; Strong motivation and identify with the decarbonization and sustainability of the AEC sector and willingness to learn and help others. Capabilities include excellent project management and organizational skills, as well as effective communication and networking abilities, demonstrated success in securing research funding, thus being instrumental in advancing the organization´s commitment to sustainable and responsible construction practices.