PhD Studentship : Investigating building physics for the Design of Resilient, Healthy and Energy-Efficient homes

Applications are invited for a fully funded PhD studentship (3 years) within the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Nottingham, subject to funding approval.

Driven by the need to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in the UK by 2050 and rising energy costs, the UK building sector faces increasing pressure to achieve the carbon-neutral target in the coming decades. Numerous studies in the UK have explored methods to reduce carbon emissions in new and existing buildings. Significant progress has been made with stricter regulations and higher design standards. However, achieving carbon reduction in buildings by 2050 faces technical, regulatory, time, and financial constraints.

We aim to minimise building energy consumption for heating and ventilation by refining operations, providing heating and ventilation only when and where required. Achieving this requires an in-depth understanding of building physics under various operational conditions. It is crucial to understand how building physics affects heat and air transfer between indoor and outdoor environments and between zones within the building. Examining inter-zonal thermodynamics and fluid dynamics is essential to develop energy and ventilation strategies that significantly reduce energy demand.

We seek to carry out research studies that are set to contribute to gaining a comprehensive scientific understanding of the building physics and enable us to deliver suitable, practical and effective building design and operation methodology. As part of the research scheme, this exciting PhD research will play a fundamental role in achieving these purposes.

In addition to good work ethic and academic integrity, the ideal candidate will also have knowledge and experience in building science and technology, and be interested in low carbon buildings, indoor air quality and general sustainability. Good writing and communication skills are essential. Strong skills in using ANSYS fluent, Python, Matlab or similar coding software are desirable. The studentship offers exciting research based in the Department of Architecture and Built Environment at the University of Nottingham.

Eligibility

• Both home and international students are welcome to apply. For home students, a full home studentship is available (£19,237+ per annum). For international students, full international fees are provided, no stipend. In either case, extra industry funding support may be available subject to the partner’s approval.
• Candidates must possess or expect to obtain, a 2:1 or first-class degree in an Engineering or Physical Sciences related discipline, or equivalent for international students.
• Preferred start date is 1^st April 2024, but this is negotiable for the right candidate. Other starting dates: 1 Oct, 1 Dec, 1 Feb, and 1 Jul.

How to apply

Please send a copy of your covering letter, CV and academic transcripts to Dr Xiaofeng (Ken) Zheng at xiaofeng.zheng@nottingham.ac.uk referring to the project title. Informal inquires can also be sent to this email address.

Closing date: 30^th January 2025

The position will start once a suitable candidate has been identified and subject to funding approval.

Advert information