Low Carbon Technologies such as solar PV can reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and generate electricity for self-consumption, which cut down the import of energy from the grid which is susceptible to energy price shocks.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing have demonstrated high levels of effectiveness for identifying suitable sites for solar PV at a range of spatial scales. Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) data are highly suited for modelling small scale features in complex landscapes. This project aims to determine the potential of solar PV to reduce CO2 emissions and reduce energy demand for a region of Northern Ireland by using LiDAR and ancillary spatial data to create a high-resolution solar PV suitability model.
The successful candidate is expected to acquire, process, and analyse geospatial data, particularly collected through remote sensing methods including LiDAR, to develop a spatial model for solar PV panel suitability. The candidate will also calculate a range of metrics based on solar PV models relating to GHG emissions and residential energy demand, along with reviewing and analysing the opportunities and challenges towards adopting solar PV panels in Northern Ireland.
Please note, the successful candidate will be required to obtain AccessNI clearance prior to registration due to the nature of the project.
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.
If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.
The University offers the following levels of support:
The following scholarship options are available to applicants worldwide:
These scholarships will cover full-time PhD tuition fees for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance) and will provide a £900 per annum research training support grant (RTSG) to help support the PhD researcher.
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.
Please note: you will automatically be entered into the competition for the Full Award, unless you state otherwise in your application.
The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home rate and a maintenance allowance of £19,000 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).
This scholarship also comes with £900 per annum for three years as a research training support grant (RTSG) allocation to help support the PhD researcher.
Due consideration should be given to financing your studies. Further information on cost of living
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Submission deadline
Monday 6 February 2023
04:00PM
Interview Date
Week commencing 20 March 2023
Preferred student start date
18th September 2023
Telephone
Contact by phone
Email
Contact by email