Developing a high-resolution geospatial framework for optimising building decarbonisation through energy efficiency and solar PV

Summary

Buildings are a major contributor to energy consumption and carbon emissions, while rising energy costs create challenges for households, businesses and public organisations. Northern Ireland needs better evidence to identify where energy-efficiency improvements and renewable-energy technologies can deliver the greatest environmental and economic benefits.

This PhD will develop an innovative, high-resolution geospatial framework to support building decarbonisation across Northern Ireland. The research will integrate remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), spatial modelling and energy-related data to assess the characteristics and energy performance of buildings, their potential for energy-efficiency improvements, and their suitability for rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) generation.

The project will investigate how these different opportunities can be combined and prioritised to maximise reductions in energy consumption, greenhouse-gas emissions and energy costs. It will also consider wider spatial, economic and environmental factors and explore alternative policy and investment scenarios. The research is expected to develop new approaches for identifying where decarbonisation interventions could have the greatest impact and provide a spatial decision-support framework to support evidence-based planning and investment.

The project will suit applicants interested in GIS, remote sensing, spatial data science, environmental modelling, renewable energy, climate change, sustainability and/or building energy assessment. It offers opportunities to work with diverse geospatial and environmental datasets and to develop advanced skills in spatial analysis and modelling while addressing an important real-world challenge for Northern Ireland's transition towards a low-carbon and more energy-efficient economy.

Note: A proposal is not required upon application.

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.

• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement demonstrating interest in the subject area
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• Applicants should hold, or expect to hold a First Class Honours Degree in a relevant subject area
• Applicants should hold, or expect to hold a relevant Masters Degree at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster
• Practice-based research experience and/or dissemination
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Experience of presentation of research findings

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:

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

PhD scholarships are available for this project to all applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile, and will cover:

• Tuition fees.
• A maintenance allowance of approximately £22,000 (exact rate is to be confirmed) per annum for three years, subject to satisfactory academic performance.
• A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of approximately £900 per annum.

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, funded from any source, including self-financing students, are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Students in full-time employment are not eligible for an award.

Part-time PhD scholarships may be available at a 0.5 pro rata rate of the full-time scholarship, which would require a six-year registration period.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.

The University will award a successful candidate one of the following scholarships for the project, depending on the funding available at the time an admissions offer is made:

1. Department for the Economy (DfE) PhD Scholarships
2. Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS)

Please note that the Terms and Conditions for scholarships are subject to change for 2027/28.