Quantifying the influence of wind advection on urban heat island for an improvement of a climate change adaptation planning tool

A NERC-funded CASE PhD studentship is available starting October 2013 for 3.5 years in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham (UoB). This project builds upon the existing partnership between the University and Birmingham City Council (BCC, the CASE partner), and in particular, the successfully completed project BUCCANEER (Birmingham Urban Climate Change Adaptation with Neighbourhood Estimates of Environmental Risk). This PhD studentship aims to develop a generic methodology of correcting the urban heat island (UHI) patterns from a local-equilibrium UHI model (e.g. the BUCCANEER model) by incorporating wind advection simulated from a 3D meteorological model. The student will work in a vibrant group of researchers in the area of urban climate modelling and observation at UoB and will be trained to gain multi-disciplinary expertise and skills in the areas of urban weather/climate modelling. The student will also enhance their personal skills through 6 months training at BCC on knowledge of risk assessment & adaptation procedure within decision-making body, managerial skills, and leadership skills. The scientific output of the generic methodology is transferrable to other cities and other models of the similar kind. The output of the project will be delivered to Birmingham City Council (BCC, the CASE partner) for the purpose of risk assessment, climate change adaptation, and strategic planning.
Candidates should (or expect to) hold a good Master’s degree in natural sciences (preferably in meteorology, physics, physical geography or applied maths) or engineering. Background in other relevant areas may also be considered. Candidates should be interested in atmospheric modelling, micrometeorology, or urban climate, or keen to learn about these areas. Preferably experience in these aspects is advantageous but not required.
Candidates must meet the requirement of the UK residence eligibility. Please check the NERC website or contact us if you are unsure of your eligibility.
Applications must be made online at https://pga.bham.ac.uk/lpages/LES030.htm. You should choose “PhD in Department of Environmental Health and Risk Management Full-time Research 2013/14”. The most promising candidates will be invited for interview.
Closing date: 30 May 2013 in the first instance. Applications will be accepted until the position has been filled.
Enquiry: Dr Xiaoming Cai at 0121-4145533, or email at [Email Address Removed].

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