Leveraging Big Data for Health-Optimised Indoor Environments

This PhD studentship is part of the Strathclyde Centre for Doctoral Training (SCDT) in Energy-efficient Indoor Climate Control for Optimised Health (EICCOH). The centre addresses the critical skills gap in designing net-zero buildings that are human-centric and optimise health. This exciting opportunity is in collaboration with an industry-leading sensor manufacturer, which provides access to a large dataset of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) metrics.

Research Focus

The studentship will explore the intersection of indoor environmental quality, occupant health, and energy efficiency in the built environment. The research will leverage advanced sensor technologies and big data analytics to tackle key challenges, including:

1. identifying links between improvements in indoor air quality (IAQ) and health outcomes using data-driven approaches
2. analysing indoor environmental risk factors through large datasets to inform building portfolio management and design strategies
3. developing SMART sensors and platforms with integrated feedback loops to deliver tailored recommendations for improving IAQ, energy performance, and occupant well-being

Why join this programme?

The SCDT provides a world-class research and training environment, offering interdisciplinary expertise in net-zero building design, indoor air quality, human behaviour, data analytics, and machine learning. The programme is designed to train future innovators and leaders capable of driving the transition to a sustainable, healthy, and energy-efficient built environment.

Key features of this studentship include:

• co-supervision by experts across Architecture, Psychology, and Computer & Information Sciences
• close collaboration with an industry partner to ensure the research addresses real-world challenges
• opportunities to engage with stakeholders, including clinicians, industry specialists, and the public, through placements, training, and networking
• the flexibility to base the PhD at the University of Strathclyde (Glasgow), the industrial partner's site (Bristol office), or across both locations as a split-site arrangement

Professional Development

Successful candidates will benefit from:

• training in scientific writing and publication
• support in applying for external funding opportunities, such as travel grants
• enrolment in the PGCert in Researcher Development, a 60-credit qualification designed to enhance skills in governance, engagement, intellectual abilities, and personal effectiveness

Candidate Expectations

We are seeking highly motivated individuals who are eager to take ownership of their projects and contribute creatively to shaping their research. Candidates should have a strong interest in interdisciplinary approaches and a passion for addressing the challenges of energy-efficient, health-optimised indoor environments.

Benefits

As part of the SCDT, students will join a vibrant and inclusive postgraduate research cohort, benefiting from peer-to-peer learning and a collaborative research culture. This scholarship offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of innovation, bridging academic research with industry needs to deliver impactful solutions for the built environment.

Further information

As part of this new initiative, you will have the opportunity to contribute to setting the agenda of the SCDT, to address the challenge of delivering net-zero buildings without compromising health and wellbeing. Membership of this SCDT will enable you to engage with a vibrant community of PhD students, academics and industry specialists, providing the specialist knowledge and skills needed to design and manage healthy, human-centric indoor environments.

Expected outputs for this studentship would include 3-4* articles in the relevant fields, public engagement and outreach activities, and co-development of future grant applications to support signature research in this area.