Blog
Sustainable Encapsulation Technologies: MSCA NAT-BUILD PhD Positions with Sphera Encapsulation for the Buildings of the Future
The construction industry is undergoing an unprecedented green revolution, driven by the urgent need to reduce CO₂ emissions and improve the energy efficiency of buildings.
In this global context, sustainable encapsulation technologies are emerging as one of the most promising innovation drivers for the development of intelligent materials.
At Sphera Encapsulation, the only Italian company entirely dedicated to research and development in encapsulation technologies, we are proud to announce our active participation in the prestigious MSCA Doctoral Network NAT-BUILD (Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions).
This international collaboration will soon open two outstanding PhD positions, aimed at redefining thermal insulation and sustainability concepts for next-generation building materials.
The Role of PCM Microencapsulation in Sustainable Encapsulation Technologies for Sustainable Construction
The core objective of the NAT-BUILD network is to integrate advanced materials science with applied building physics.
Specifically, the research focuses on the application of Phase Change Materials (PCMs), substances capable of storing and releasing significant amounts of thermal energy during phase transitions, acting as passive thermal energy buffers.
Thanks to the expertise and laboratory infrastructure that Sphera Encapsulation provides as a strategic partner, selected researchers will work on two cutting-edge solutions designed to optimize indoor comfort and energy performance.
DC14 Project: Microencapsulated Phase Change Materials (MPCM) for Earth Bricks
This research line focuses on developing an advanced PCM microencapsulation system based on natural salt coatings, designed for direct integration into compressed earth bricks.
Objectives
- Optimize and stabilize indoor hygrothermal performance through passive regulation.
- Improve thermal comfort while reducing environmental impact.
Environmental Impact
- Significant reduction in the use of virgin raw materials.
- Substantial decrease in the overall carbon footprint (CO₂ emissions).
In parallel with the optimization of earth bricks, the European network is also investigating deeper biomimetic approaches to energy management in buildings.
DC15 Project: Energy Bricks (NRG-BRICKs) Inspired by Cellular Membranes
The second project involves experimental and multiscale numerical characterization of PCM-enhanced construction blocks that emulate the sophisticated thermal regulation and exchange mechanisms found in biological cell membranes.
Objectives
- Significantly improve the thermal performance of buildings across highly diverse European climate conditions.
Energy Impact
- Reduction of operational energy consumption associated with heating and cooling systems.
These structural innovations require multidisciplinary expertise and an international profile, which is why the selection process follows strict European mobility requirements.
Who Can Apply for the MSCA PhD Positions in Italy with Sphera Encapsulation?
Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions represent one of the highest standards of scientific excellence funded by the European Union, offering early-stage researchers a unique combination of interdisciplinary training and industrial networking opportunities.
To ensure maximum scientific exchange and international mobility, eligibility criteria for the positions hosted by Sphera Encapsulation are clearly defined:
Eligibility Requirements
Residence Status
- Applicants must not be residents of Italy at the time of application.
MSCA Mobility Rule
- Applicants must not have resided, studied, or carried out their main professional activity in Italy for more than 12 months during the 36 months preceding the official call opening.
These international requirements guarantee access to an open innovation ecosystem where cutting-edge academic research meets industrial scalability.
Join the NAT-BUILD Network: Shape the Future of Sustainable Building Innovation with Us
If you are a highly motivated researcher and wish to specialize in sustainable encapsulation technologies applied to sustainable construction and advanced building materials, this is an ideal opportunity to accelerate your career within a leading European consortium.
The DC14 and DC15 positions within the NAT-BUILD network are currently being activated and represent a unique intersection between materials science and the ecological transition.
To receive early information about technical admission requirements, application procedures, and official call publication timelines, please contact the scientific coordinators of the project:
- Antonio Caggiano — Scientific Supervisor DC14 & DC15
- Francesca Zanoni — Scientific Representative, Sphera Encapsulation
Contact us through the official Sphera Encapsulation channels to receive updates before the official launch of the call.
To stay informed about the opening of these positions, our latest patented developments, and emerging trends in the smart materials sector, follow us on our social media channels:
