Dynamic facades and climate adaptive building envelopes

Summary

Over 30% of global final energy consumption and CO2 emissions can be attributed to residential and commercial sector buildings. To achieve Net/Near-Zero Energy Building commitments, building envelopes using adaptive/dynamic technologies will be instrumental in reducing energy consumption. Adaptive façade panels, switching between heat collection, heat retention, and heat rejection modes can control the timing, direction and quantity of heat flow through the building envelope, theoretically reducing fabric heating and cooling demands by up to 50%.

The aim of this project is to develop an adaptive building envelope technology based on Ulster University’s pioneering work on solar thermal diodes. The study will require the investigation of the thermal diode and its application in building facades and roofs, explored through theoretical and experimental study. The project will design and develop a façade panel concept with a suitable evaluation programme to characterise the technology and determine key techno-economic performance variables

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Research proposal of 2000 words detailing aims, objectives, milestones and methodology of the project

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)
• Department for the Economy (DfE)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period (individual project advertisements will note where part time options apply).

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.