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  Reduction of environmental footprint of wood buildings through performance-based design (PBD)


   Sciences du bois et de la foret

   Applications accepted all year round  Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)

About the Project

The adoption of a performance-based design methodology is being considered for a future edition of the National Building Code of Canada. The conventional approach to performance-based design focuses solely on technical requirements, such as structural integrity, fire safety and energy efficiency. However, given the environmental benefits of wood and wood construction, there is considerable interest in integrating environmental impact assessment methods with traditional technical design requirements.

This project will focus specifically on off-site or prefabricated wood buildings, including prefabricated mass timber structures. The main objective is to develop modern performance-based design tools that integrate carbon footprint assessment into the building design and construction processes. The project aims to identify critical values and establish relevant methodologies to effectively measure environmental impacts.

The ultimate goal is to propose performance criteria applicable to all types of buildings, ensuring that sustainability considerations are integrated into design and construction practices.

Admission Department: Wood and Forest Sciences, Université Laval

Research Director: Pierre Blanchet

Profile of the required candidate: Master's degree (or equivalent) in construction engineering, wood engineering, industrial engineering, environmental engineering, building engineering, mechanical engineering, architecture or any other discipline relevant to the construction field.

Requirements: Be eligible for the PhD program at Université Laval

Conditions: Amount of $ 23, 000 per year, paid as a salary. Duration of 4 years. Annual renewal subjected to performance review.

Start date: Depending on the availability of the candidate.

To apply: Send your transcript, resume, and cover letter to:

Architecture, Building & Planning (3) Engineering (12)

Register your interest for this project