Research Assistant / Research Fellow (Soil-Cement)

The role of Research Assistant / Research Fellow specializes in soil-cement research within the Institute of Cement and Concrete at Meru University of Science & Technology (MUST). The successful candidate will be based full-time in Meru, Kenya, and will contribute to advanced research involving soil testing, geotechnical applications, and soil-cement materials. The core focus is on experimental work, data analysis, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team to advance knowledge in soil stabilization techniques, specifically targeting the development of sustainable, cost-effective, and durable building blocks.

Project Summary

The project focuses on the development and evaluation of Stabilized Soil Blocks (SSBs) and Compressed Earth Blocks (CEBs) at the Soil-Cement Laboratory, Institute of Cement and Concrete, Meru University of Science & Technology (MUST). The primary aim is to produce sustainable, cost-effective, and durable building blocks using locally available soil materials stabilized with appropriate cement and additives. This initiative seeks to contribute to affordable housing solutions, promote environmentally friendly construction practices, and enhance the technical capacity of academicians, researchers, policy makers, regulators and other industry professionals in innovative cement-earth-based construction technologies. Through comprehensive testing and analysis, the project aims to establish optimal mix designs, mechanical properties, and construction guidelines for industry practitioner’s applications.

Project Objectives

• Determine the optimal mix proportions of soil, stabilizers (such as cement), and water to achieve desirable strength, durability, and dimensional stability.
• Develop and produce Stabilized Soil Blocks (SSBs) and Compressed Earth Blocks (CEBs) suitable for sustainable construction using locally sourced soils and stabilizers.
• Evaluate the physical and mechanical properties of the blocks, including compressive strength, water absorption, density, and durability.
• Analyze the environmental and economic benefits of using stabilized soil and compressed earth blocks as sustainable building materials.
• Establish standardized testing procedures and quality control measures for the production of SSBs and CEBs.
• Promote awareness and capacity building among academia, researchers, industry professionals, policy makers and local communities on the advantages of soil-cement earth-based construction materials.
• Development of training workshops that inform but also deliver data for the final policy advice derived from the research.
• Policy advice, recommendations, tangible, reliable, and scalable data.

Project Location

This is a full-time position based in Meru-Kenya. The Research Assistant / Research Fellow will be primarily based at the Institute of Cement and Concrete, Meru University of Science & Technology, Meru-Kenya. The successful applicants will be expected work closely with the project partners within and outside Kenya.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct soil testing for geotechnical and soil-cement applications following standard protocols.
• Perform laboratory experiments related to soil-cement materials, including preparation, curing, and testing.
• Analyze data and interpret results to support research objectives.
• Contribute to research publications, reports, and presentations.
• Collaborate with team members on ongoing projects and assist in developing and implementing new research methodologies.
• Maintain precise documentation of experimental procedures and results.

Qualifications and Requirements

Educational Qualifications

• At least a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Material Science, Earth Sciences or an equivalent discipline.

Professional Experience & Skills

• Solid knowledge of soil testing techniques relevant to geotechnical applications.
• Prior research experience involving soil materials, particularly in testing and analysis for geotechnical purposes.
• Familiarity with soil-cement stabilization, including preparation, curing, and testing methods.
• Ability to operate laboratory equipment and conduct standardized soil-cement tests accurately.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analysis software.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proficiency in use of Standards and Testing Protocols in accordance with established standards such as: ASTM Standards (e.g., ASTM D1883 for CBR, ASTM D4318 for Atterberg limits), AASHTO Guidelines, IS Codes (e.g., IS 2720 series for soil testing) and BS Standards (British Standards for geotechnical testing).
• Knowledge of hydraulic road binders and stabilized soil blocks.

Additional Requirements

• Availability to commence the role by 1st January 2026.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.