Reducing the Energy Demand of UK Housing: Fully-funded four-year studentship

Application details:
Reference number: ERBE20/Demand
Start date of studentship: 1 October 2020
Closing date of advert: 19 April 2020
Interview date: TBC

Supervisors:
Primary supervisor: Dr David Allinson
Secondary supervisor: TBC

Reducing the energy demand of the UKs existing housing stock is essential for achieving emissions targets and alleviating fuel poverty. The highest levels of heat loss occur in the 8 million homes that have solid masonry walls (SMWs). Insulating these walls can save energy but may cause moisture problems. Water accumulates within SMWs when it is raining outside or humid inside and diminishes with drier conditions. This moisture can lead to mould growth, interstitial condensation and freeze thaw damage, which can cause severe damage and affect the health of occupants.

This PhD will produce new methods and metrics, backed by rigorous scientific evidence, that enable moisture risk assessment of SMWs to be carried out routinely, new insulation materials to be developed and more homes to be insulated. The research will use our state-of-the-art Hygrothermal Test Facility, full-sized test houses and the latest modelling software.

The successful applicant will join the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Energy Resilience and the Built Environment at Loughborough.

Find out more: http://erbecdt.ac.uk/

Loughborough University
Loughborough University is a top-ten rated university in England for research intensity (REF2014). In choosing Loughborough for your research, you’ll work alongside academics who are leaders in their field. You will benefit from comprehensive support and guidance from our Doctoral College, including tailored careers advice, to help you succeed in your research and future career.

Find out more: www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/supporting-you/research/

The EPSRC CDT in Energy Resilience and the Built Environment
The EPSRC CDT in Energy Resilience and the Built Environment (ERBE) brings together established energy research centres at Loughborough University and University College London with the MaREI Research Centre (Ireland). We provide a unique opportunity to work with leading researchers on multi-disciplinary projects integrated with industry and provide a comprehensive skills and development programme.

Entry Requirements
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject. Applicants having a background in STEM subjects, architecture or other building and energy-related disciplines are particularly welcomed. A relevant master’s degree and/or employment experience will be an advantage.

How to apply
Applications should be made online at www.lboro.ac.uk/study/apply/research/ and must include an outline research proposal. Under programme name, please select Energy Resilience and the Built Environment.

Please quote reference number: ERBE20/Demand

Contact details
For information about the project, please contact:

Name: Dr David Allinson
Email address: [Email Address Removed]
Telephone number: +44 (0)1509 223643

For information about the application process, please contact:

Name: Mr Berkeley Young
Email address: [Email Address Removed]
Telephone number: +44 (0)1509 222611