The Project

The specific aim of this EngD in Systems research project  is to explore the whole life performance of carbon in buildings by investigating the interaction between embodied and operational carbon, and to develop a systems engineering based approach to optimise initial building design decision making. This EngD proposal is one of a series intended to develop an alternative building design paradigm appropriate to the particular challenges of the 21st Century and utilising the knowledge, systems, materials and techniques available to us.

The research project will adopt a systems engineering approach to develop building design framework tool to deliver lower carbon buildings. The research methodology will include:

• review and analyse whole life carbon impact of building materials and technologies using life cycle assessment approaches;
• review the specific interaction between embodied carbon and operation carbon including the role of thermal mass;
• review and analyse published whole life carbon impact of buildings;
• undertake primary research to assess whole life carbon impact, including performance evaluation, of in-house solutions;
• develop and test a systems engineering computer based design tool to facilitate and optimise selection of low carbon building solutions for whole life.

An initial estimate resource allocation of time to the research tasks are: 20% Literature and knowledge development; 25% on whole life carbon impact assessment of complete projects; 40% on development and testing of design tool; 15% on dissemination and reporting activities

Requirements on candidates:

Essential:

• Candidates should have a minimum of an upper second (2.1) class honours degree (or equivalent) in civil, structural or building engineering, building services/environmental engineering, architecture or a related discipline.
• An interest in and knowledge of the environmental impact of buildings, and the technologies and approaches to reduce this impact.
• Ability to express ideas clearly, both in writing and presentation.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a dynamic design team.

Desirable:

• A knowledge of life cycle assessment approaches.
• An interest in systems thinking and computer based design tools.

Funding:

A tax-free EPSRC stipend (£15,090 for 2010/2011) is available for the successful candidate, as well as a minimum of £3500 stipend top-up from the sponsoring company (MustRD). Tuition fees will also be covered. Standard EPSRC studentship eligibility applies. Please check your eligibility before applying. Non-eligible individuals are welcome to apply, but must be able to find alternative funding.

Contacts

For further details regarding the research project specifically, please contact Professor Pete Walker (abspw@bath.ac.uk).

Administrative contact and how to apply, contact: Suzanne Swallow (s.swallow@bath.ac.uk)

www.bris.ac.uk/eng-systems-centre/idc