PhD in Electronics and Electrical Engineering – Engineering - Digital Twins to Decarbonise Transport Facilities and Infrastructure

Start Date: 01.03.2025 

In the rapidly evolving transportation landscape, the sustainability of transport facilities and infrastructures have gained great importance due to their significant environmental impacts. Transport hubs, including airports, train stations, and other transportation hubs, play a pivotal role in the global mobility ecosystem. These hubs are not only critical junctions for seamless travel but also substantial consumers of energy, contributing to emissions, resource utilisation, and land use. The following research objectives explore the potential of digital twins to decarbonise transport facilities and infrastructures by evaluating building energy efficiency and optimising operational practices. 

• Research Objective (RO) 1: Assessing Building Energy Efficiency Through Digital Twins 

The primary research objective is to develop and deploy digital twins as dynamic virtual representations of transport facility buildings. These digital twins will incorporate real- time data from various sensors, building management systems, and energy consumption records. By integrating these data sources, we will comprehensively evaluate the energy efficiency of buildings, considering factors such as building envelopes, passengers’ flow/occupancy, and operational practices. The digital twins will provide a holistic view of energy consumption patterns, identifying inefficiencies and potential areas for improvement. 

• RO 2: Quantifying Carbon Footprint Reduction Strategies 

This research objective involves using digital twins to simulate and quantify the impact of carbon footprint reduction strategies within transport facilities. By employing state-of- the-art simulation tools and algorithms, we will model different intervention scenarios, including retrofitting building components, upgrading HVAC systems, and optimising lighting. Through these simulations, we aim to calculate the potential carbon emission reductions achievable through these strategies while ensuring that operational efficiency remains uncompromised. 

• RO 3: Enhancing Operational Efficiency and Environmental Impact 

The objective is to explore the intricate relationship between operational efficiency and environmental impact in transport facilities. By integrating data from digital twins with real-world operational data, we will investigate how energy-efficient building practices contribute to overall operational efficiency. This investigation will offer insights into the correlation between optimised operations and reduced carbon emissions, as well as reduced resource consumption. 

As part of the EPSRC TransiT Hub, this PhD will work with people, from partner Universities, industry partners, and policy makers, and data from a range of different communities and places. 

Applicants with interests and expertise in systems engineering, digital technology, Cyber-Physical Systems/Infrastructure (CPS/I), Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Wireless Communication, and digital twins, would be highly relevant to this opportunity. The successful applicant will be affiliated with the Autonomous Systems and Connectivity Division and the Communication, Sensing, and Imaging Research Group. 

Before submitting a formal application, please notify Dr Ahmad Taha (ahmad.taha@glasgow.ac.uk) of your interest by sending a one pager highlighting: 

• Why are you interested in this project? 
• Why are you the right candidate for the position? 
• How this PhD will support you to achieve your future ambitions? 

Your email subject must be “TransiT PhD - Digital Twins to Decarbonise Transport Facilities and Infrastructure” 

How to Apply: Please refer to the following website for details on how to apply: 

https://www.gla.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/autonomoussystems/