PhD Position in Environmental Engineering

University of Nottingham

Institution: University of Nottingham – Faculty of Engineering, Buildings, Energy and Environment (BEE) Research Group
Location: UK
Reference: ENG307
Closing Date: Open until filled

Project Overview

This PhD focuses on evidence-based, climate-resilient retrofit strategies for UK school buildings to improve:

  • Indoor environmental quality for children’s health and wellbeing

  • Energy efficiency and reduced carbon emissions

  • Long-term climate resilience and building performance

The research integrates Passive House and EnerPHit principles with real-world building data. It aims to produce practical, scalable solutions for school estate managers, designers, and policymakers, supporting the Net Zero Schools agenda.

Candidate Profile

  • First-class or 2:1 undergraduate degree in:

    • Architecture

    • Architectural Engineering

    • Building Services Engineering

    • Environmental Engineering

    • Related fields

  • Relevant Master’s or professional experience in sustainable design, building physics, energy modeling, or environmental performance is desirable.

  • Motivated to address real-world challenges in sustainable building retrofit.

  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Desirable skills: quantitative methods, dynamic building performance analysis, stakeholder engagement, and experience in sustainable architecture or building physics.

Benefits & Environment

  • Funding sought post-selection to cover home tuition fees and UKRI doctoral stipend.

  • Hands-on experience with real school buildings and measured datasets.

  • Training through the Researcher Academy, including academic writing, networking, and career development.

  • Access to a supportive interdisciplinary supervisory team and outstanding research facilities.

  • Opportunity to make a significant societal and environmental impact.

Contact: Dr. Sara Mohamed for further information and application submission.

Apply