Artificial Intelligence (AI) Solutions in the Built Environment and Infrastructure Challenges

About the Project

Artificial intelligence is already reshaping how we plan, deliver, and operate the built environment. The key question is no longer whether AI will play a role, but how it can be applied responsibly to improve performance, safety, and value. Infrastructure projects consume a substantial share of global investment, yet outcomes often fall short of expectations. Road accidents, traffic delays, unreliable rail services, pavement deterioration, inefficient traffic management, and airport operational challenges all illustrate the gap between investment and performance. This PhD position aims to bridge such gaps by developing practical, AI-enabled solutions to real-world problems.

The position focuses on identifying a tangible challenge and designing an AI-based solution that can be validated using real or realistic data. The research will typically involve two interconnected stages: (1) collecting and structuring data related to an existing problem, and (2) developing and evaluating AI-driven methods to address it. The emphasis is on practical impact, ensuring that outcomes are relevant to industry stakeholders and decision-makers.

Applicants will gain experience in applied AI methods, data collection and preparation, problem formulation, and solution evaluation. The project will involve coding and algorithm development, while also making use of modern AI-assisted development tools. Students will develop skills in translating domain challenges into computational workflows and communicating findings for real-world implementation.

This opportunity is suitable for applicants from a built environment background, including both engineering disciplines and management areas such as construction or project management, however, topics aligned with infrastructure systems (e.g., roads, transport, rail, aviation) may allow for a smoother research pathway. Enthusiasm for solving real-world problems, willingness to learn, and an interest in applying AI are the key additional attributes required, alongside your existing domain knowledge, for this position.

University of Reading:

The University of Reading, located west of London, England, is ranked at 194 globally, according to the QS World University Rankings 2026. 98% of research at the University is of international standing (REF 2021, combining the University’s world leading, internationally excellent and internationally recognised submissions). The University’s main Whiteknights Campus is set in 130 hectares of beautiful, award-winning parkland, less than a 30-minute train ride to London Paddington and is approximately 30 miles from London Heathrow airport.

During your PhD at the University of Reading, you will expand your research knowledge and skills, receiving supervision and training in a number of different forms. We also provide dedicated training in important transferable skills that will support your career aspirations. If you need to develop your academic English skills before you start your studies, then the University has an excellent International Study and Language Institute which can help with this.

Eligibility:

• Applicants should have a good bachelor’s degree (minimum of a UK Upper Second Class (2:1) or equivalent), and preferably a master’s degree, in engineering, construction management, or a related built environment discipline. Equivalent professional experience may also be considered.
• Applicants must have prior experience with AI/ML applications, including coding and algorithm development.
• International applicants will also need to meet the University’s English Language requirements. We offer pre-sessional English courses that can help with meeting these requirements.

The University of Reading is committed to a policy of equal opportunities and non-discriminatory treatment for all members of its community.

How to apply:

Before applying, you are encouraged to discuss your initial research idea with the supervisor and agree on a proposed direction. Please get in touch to arrange this discussion. Once agreed, you should submit an application (with the agreed proposal) for a PhD in Construction Management via our online application system

Further information:

School of the Built Environment PhD webpage

Enquiries:

Dr Shahab Kabiri Renani, e-mail: s.kabirirenani@reading.ac.uk

Funding Notes

We welcome applications from self-funded students worldwide for this project.

If you are applying to an international funding scheme, we encourage you to get in contact as we may be able to support you in your application.