The role of BIM Level 3+ and associated data analytics and visualisation technologies in increasing energy efficiency in the built environment (Buildings and Infrastructure)

People spend 90% of their lives in buildings, being responsible for 40% of energy consumption and 36% of CO2 emissions in the developed countries. Efficient consumption of resources, particularly the use of energy, represents a major challenge in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Therefore, the strategic priorities of the European Union for 2030 include a reduction in Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions by 40% (compared to 1990 levels), an increase of energy efficiency of at least 27%, and the implementation of renewable energies of at least 27%.

Additional research and innovation is necessary to overcome the barriers in achieving these targets. In the energy efficiency domain in particular, current developments adversely affect the probability of achieving the targeted outcomes. Innovative and intelligent visualisation, data analytics, augmented reality technologies integrated with BIM, FM, deep refurbishment and remodelling offer unprecedented opportunities to achieve energy reductions, raising awareness and easing interaction with the energy demanding systems.

As a Teesside University research student, you will join a growing and dynamic research community, allowing you to share your experiences, insight and inspiration with fellow researchers. You will benefit from our academic expertise, and be supported through a strong programme of research training. You will be offered opportunities and support at each stage of your research degree.

The studentship will be part of the Doctoral Training Alliance (DTA) in Energy, a postgraduate training initiative which builds on the research strengths and industry-focused ethos of the University Alliance. The DTA aims to develop independent, highly-employable researchers with knowledge, expertise and skills in strategically-important research areas and is the largest multi-partner and only nationwide initiative of its kind. There are currently three DTAs; Applied Biosciences for Health (launched 2015), Energy (launched 2016) and Social Policy (launched 2017). Teesside University will appoint two fully-funded studentships to the DTA Energy in 18/19.