Project Ref: JWS2023-DV
The well-being of modern society heavily depends on the uninterrupted functioning of critical infrastructure systems (CIS) such as transport, electricity, water, etc. Nowadays, these systems face many challenges due to increasing loads caused by population growth, aging and deterioration, and various natural and man-made hazards. Moreover, the frequency and severity of natural hazards may increase due to the impact of changing climate. Therefore, it is essential to improve the resilience of CIS by implementing efficient and sustainable protective measures. In particular, there is currently a strong impetus to use nature-based solutions (NBS) for this purpose.
Simulation of the performance of CIS, including the effects of protective measures, may provide significant assistance in developing efficient strategies for improving the resilience of these systems. Thus, the overall aim of the dissertation is to develop a framework for modelling the performance of CIS subjected to single and/or multiple hazards in order to estimate the relevant risks and resilience of these systems. The framework should take into account the interactions between CIS and protective structures (including NBS), and uncertainties associated with hazard prediction and modelling, properties of infrastructure assets and protective structures, and loads on them. It is suggested that the framework will be based on Bayesian Networks (BNs), which can integrate different types of data/information, and account for various dependencies and relevant uncertainties in a systematic way. Since components of the framework such as hazards, infrastructure assets and protective structures are spatially distributed, an additional advantage of BNs is that they can be coupled with geographic information systems (GIS). Moreover, new data on hazards, infrastructure and protective structures can relatively easily be taken into account to update BN-based models. Case studies will be developed to illustrate the application of the framework.
Eligibility
This scholarship is available to Home and Overseas students. The successful candidate will be based on campus in Edinburgh.
To be eligible, applicants should have a first-class honours degree in a relevant subject or a 2.1 honours degree plus Masters (or equivalent experience. Scholarships will be awarded by competitive merit, taking into account the academic ability of the applicant.
We recognise that not every talented researcher will have had the same opportunities to advance their careers. We therefore will account for any particular circumstances that applicants disclose (e.g. parental leave, caring duties, part-time jobs to support studies, disabilities etc.) to ensure an inclusive and fair recruitment process.
How to apply
To apply you must complete our online application form.
Please select PhD Civil Engineering as the programme and include the full project title, reference number (JWS2023-DV) and supervisor name on your application form. You will also need to provide a CV, a supporting statement (1-5 A4 pages) outlining your suitability and how you would approach the project, a copy of your degree certificate(s) and relevant transcripts and an academic reference.
You must also provide proof of your ability in the English language (if English is not your mother tongue or if you have not already completed a degree that was taught in English within the last 2 years). We require an IELTS certificate showing an overall score of at least 6.5 with no component scoring less than 6.0 or a TOEFL certificate with a minimum score of 90 points.
Please address informal questions to Prof Dimitry Val ([Email Address Removed])
If you have any general queries about the applications process, please contact [Email Address Removed]
Timeline
The closing date for applications is 17th April 2023 and applicants must be available to start in September 2023.
Continue with Facebook
