Circularity and sustainability assessments for companies

Updated: over 1 year ago
Deadline: 22 Aug 2022

(ref. BAP-2022-534)

Laatst aangepast : 13/07/2022

The research group “sustainability assessments of materials and circular economy” (SAM) of KU Leuven brings together researchers who are motivated to strengthen Circular Economy strategies by well-founded scientific insights. We are convinced a better evidence base for the circular economy transition is needed, for which we develop integrated methodologies and new indicators to measure 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 and biobased materials, improving and assessing recycling technologies, and product service system business models, monitoring the CE for regions, cities and companies, and developing concepts for product passports. 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 (ce-center). Currently, we are looking for a highly motivated researcher to carry out research in the field of circular economy, and sustainability assessments.


Responsibilities

The objective of the research is to develop circularity and sustainability monitoring and modelling frameworks for companies, as interphase between the economy-wide monitoring (e.g. the CE monitor for the region of Flanders), and the micro-level of life cycle assessments of products. Starting from existing frameworks, you will elaborate on effective and efficient tools for companies and sectors to assess their impact on circular economy and sustainability within the value chains they are operating. The work will consist of developing guidance on metrics to companies that want to engage in the CE transition and to benchmark their progress. Next, you will develop metrics that reflect the transition at the level of sectors by analyzing policy and sector plans. Data needs and governance will be part of the development. You will closely interact with the policy research center Circular Economy. The research will be part of several project with companies.

Besides you will have the opportunity to prepare an application for a PhD project elaborating on sustainability modelling frameworks, including MFA, consequential LCA, LCSA, economic modelling and use this models to study the effects of management decisions.


Profile
  • You have a Master of Science in Engineering (Engineering Science or Bioscience Engineering, with strong interest in economics).
  • You should show a strong interest in sustainability issues and global challenges like circular economy as well as in policy design.
  • Specific expertise in one or more of the following areas is an asset: LCA, MFA, economic modelling, environmental LCC.
  • 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, both spoken and written, is considered a strong plus.
  • You have an independent working style.
  • Experience as a researcher is welcome but not mandatory.

Offer

We offer a research position for one year 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: [email protected] or Mr. Luc Alaerts, tel.: +32 16 32 49 69, mail: [email protected].


KU Leuven seeks to foster an environment where all talents can flourish, regardless of gender, age, cultural background, nationality or impairments. If you have any questions relating to accessibility or support, please contact us at [email protected].



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