Pioneering Research on Vertical Urbanization, Air and Water Systems, and Public Health

Are you driven to solve complex challenges at the intersection of urban development, engineering, and public health? As high-rise buildings transform city skylines at an unprecedented rate, their rapid expansion creates significant operational challenges for air and water management systems. These systems, essential for occupant safety and wastewater management, are being pushed beyond the limits of traditional design codes. The result is an increased risk of aerosolized pathogen ingress and disease transmission—a critical issue highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

At the Institute of Sustainable Environment (ISBE) at Heriot-Watt University, we are offering an exceptional opportunity for a PhD candidate to explore and address these pressing concerns. This groundbreaking research will investigate the complex interactions between air and water management in tall building drainage systems, focusing on the fluid dynamic mechanisms driving aerosolization in turbulent flows. The project will also examine how water chemistry and detergents influence aerosolization, with additional emphasis on advancing wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) as a tool for public health monitoring.

Central to the research is the evaluation and development of our patented Passive Aerosol and Droplet Sampler (PAADS) device. The candidate will have access to world-class facilities, including a custom-designed test site at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh and a 100-metre test tower in Northampton. Cutting-edge technology, such as the Aerodynamic Particle Sizer (APS 3321) funded by EPSRC, will also support this work.

Joining our dynamic, multidisciplinary research group in Public Health and Environmental Engineering, you will be part of a collaborative team dedicated to innovation and excellence. Our supportive environment fosters professional growth and offers extensive opportunities to contribute to influential research publications and engage with industry leaders.

We seek outstanding candidates with a background in Built Environment Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or Civil Engineering. While experience in laboratory-based measurement of wastewater aerosolization processes is advantageous, it is not essential.

This is your chance to contribute to transformative research with global implications, tackling critical issues in sustainable urban living and public health. Apply today and become part of a team shaping the future of our cities.

We welcome applicants with a background in Built Environment Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering and Civil Engineering. A knowledge of laboratory- based measurement of wastewater aerosolization processes would be advantageous.

Eligibility

This project is available to UK and overseas students. The successful candidate should have a strong interest in applied research and possess, at minimum, a first-class honours level degree in engineering or physics. Formally, four years of university study including a relevant research dissertation are required. Masters level qualification is desirable.

Funding

This is a full scholarship which will cover tuition fees (Home and Oversees) and provide an annual stipend (currently £19,237) for 42 months. Thereafter, candidates will be expected to pay a continuing affiliation fee (currently £130) whilst they complete writing up their thesis.

How to Apply

To apply you must complete our online application form.

Please select PhD Construction as the programme and include the full project title, reference number and supervisor name on your application form. Ensure that all fields marked as ‘required’ are complete.

Once have entered your personal details, click submit. You will be asked to upload your supporting documents. You must complete the section marked project proposal; provide a supporting statement (1-2 A4 pages) documenting your reasons for applying to this particular project, outlining your suitability and how you would approach the project. You must also upload your CV, a copy of your degree certificate and relevant transcripts and an academic reference in the relevant section of the application form. Please also include a digital copy of your most recent research dissertation.

You must also provide proof of your ability in the English language (if English is not your mother tongue). We require an IELTS certificate showing an overall score of at least 6.5 with no component scoring less than 6.0, or a TOEFL certificate with an overall score of at least 85, including reading 20, listening 19, speaking 20 and writing 21. Alternatively, if you have received an English-taught Bachelors or Masters degree from one of the countries listed on the UK Government Guidance under ‘Who does not need to prove their knowledge of English’, and it was obtained less than two years from your intended start date, you should provide evidence of your award that clearly states it was delivered and assessed in English language.

Please contact Prof Michael Gormley (M.Gormley@hw.ac.uk) for further information or an informal discussion.

Please contact egis-pgr-apps@hw.ac.uk for technical support with your application.

Timeline:

The closing date for applications is 14 February 2025 and applicants must be available to start by May 2025.