PhD Research Project

My Shortlist0

This project is no longer listed in the FindAPhD database
and may not be available.

Click here to view other PhD studentship opportunities at University of Reading.

Removing the barriers to retrofitting of ‘green walls’ in an urban domestic setting

Institution:

University of Reading

Dept/School/Faculty:

Technologies For Sustainable Built Environments Centre

PhD Supervisor:

Dr T Blanusa

Application Deadline:

No more applications being accepted

Funding Availability:

Funded PhD Project (UK Students Only)

PhD Research Project

Click here to visit the University of Reading website

The Royal Horticultural Society, Sutton Griffin Architects and the University of Reading are seeking an enthusiastic individual to undertake an EngD, to explore the implementation of green walls in the domestic setting.
Climbing plants such as Hedera species (common ivy), when used as ‘green walls’ around buildings, can act to insulate the building interior against weather extremes; it can reduce winter-time energy consumption, as well as the need for summer-time cooling during heatwaves. However, their use around houses is anecdotally associated with potential damage to house walls by ivy’s aerial roots; this deters many homeowners from using ivy.
This four year Doctroal research project, leading to an Engineering Doctorate Award, will undertake laboratory and field trials aims to understand the barriers and help increase the uptake of green wall solutions. The Engineering Doctorate programme also includes University taught modules and business skills training (more info on http://www.reading.ac.uk/tsbe/info-for-EngD-applicants/tsbe-what-is-an-engineering-doctorate.aspx). The project will be supervised by Dr Tijana Blanusa, RHS Research Fellow.

Research and study will be conducted mainly within the University with some visits to the industrial sponsors’ premises. Applicants must be highly motivated with a strong interest in urban sustainability issues and the application of plant biology to the urban environment. You must have a 1st class or 2:1 B.Sc., or M.Sc. degree in applied biology/plant biology/horticulture/environmental science or other related field. Experienced scientists are encouraged to apply. An ability to work both independently and as part of a team is essential.

Applications should be made online through our website at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/tsbe/EngDProgramme/tsbe-application.aspx
You also need to submit a full CV and Personal Statement to e.e.hawkins@reading.ac.uk
Closing date 22 June 2012 for a proposed start date 24 September 2012.

Funding Notes:

Stipend of £17,800 (£15,090 tax-free, funded by EPSRC) for UK students
Tuition fees and expense package included

Please note there are eligibility requirements -for more details refer to the EPSRC web site http://www.epsrc.ac.uk/PostgraduateTraining/StudentEligibility.htm