Professor John Provis is a globally recognized authority in advanced cement materials science, currently serving as Group Leader for Cement Systems at the Paul Scherrer Institut in Switzerland. He previously held the distinguished position of Professor of Cement Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Sheffield from 2012 to 2023, where he established an internationally renowned research program focused on sustainable alternatives to conventional cement technologies. With an academic foundation rooted in chemical engineering, he earned his PhD from the University of Melbourne, Australia in 2006, following combined BE(Hons) and BSc degrees at the same institution. His career trajectory demonstrates exceptional dedication to advancing environmentally sustainable construction materials, transitioning from his Australian academic roots to become a leading international figure in cement science.
Professor Provis has pioneered transformative research in alkali-activated materials and geopolymers, developing innovative binding systems that substantially reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional Portland cement. His scientific contributions include approximately 300 peer-reviewed journal articles that have fundamentally advanced the understanding of non-Portland cementitious systems, establishing new scientific frameworks for sustainable construction materials. His work has demonstrated critical applications not only in civil infrastructure but also in nuclear waste immobilization, showcasing the versatility and societal impact of his materials science innovations. The significance of his research is further evidenced by his successful acquisition of competitive funding from prestigious sources including an ERC Starting Grant, UK Research Councils, and multiple international funding bodies.
Beyond his research accomplishments, Professor Provis has profoundly shaped global discourse in cement science through his editorial leadership as Editor-in-Chief of the RILEM flagship journal Materials and Structures, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of RILEM Technical Letters, and Associate Editor of Cement and Concrete Research. He actively contributes to international standardization efforts as an invited TAC Expert of RILEM and as a Voting Member of committees for BSI, ASTM, and ACI, influencing industry practices worldwide. His academic influence extends to mentoring, having served as External Examiner for 35 doctoral degrees across 14 countries, and to scientific policy development, with his expertise sought by funding agencies in over 25 countries. Currently, his research continues to focus on developing advanced cementitious systems that address pressing global sustainability challenges and environmental concerns in construction materials.
