Ventilation effectiveness and Coronaviruses: fully funded four-year studentship

It is widely accepted that the spread of coronaviruses such as Covid-19 is exacerbated by poor ventilation. Increasing ventilation rate may help but it is possible that the key lies in ventilation effectiveness, that is, ensuring that air moves around an occupied space in a certain manner. Highly mixed environments may not be suitable for maximising healthy indoor air quality, whereas ventilation systems in which stale air rises steadily to the ceiling where it can be safely exhausted may provide an acceptable solution to the problem.

This project uses advanced computational fluid dynamics modelling to investigate this hypothesis and develop guidelines for more healthy, indoor environments. Experimental work, using particle image velocimetry, will be used for validation by providing predictions of air flow patterns around a breathing manikin and the dispersion of contaminants around the experimental chamber.

The successful applicant will join the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Energy Resilience and the Built Environment at Loughborough.
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 (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.
Find out more
http://erbecdt.ac.uk/
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.
Contact details
For information about the project, please contact:

Name: Prof. Malcolm Cook
Email address: [Email Address Removed]
Telephone number: +44 (0)1509 222816

For information about the application process, please contact:

Name: Mr Berkeley Young
Email address: [Email Address Removed]
Telephone number: +44 (0)1509 222611
How to apply
Applications should be made online at www.lboro.ac.uk/study/apply/research/ and must include an outline research proposal. This document will help you though the application process. Under programme name, please select Energy Resilience and the Built Environment.

Please quote reference number: ERBE20/MC3