About the Project
Aim
Improve the computational simulation of particulate matter of diameter 2.5 µm or less (PM2.5) in residences to benefit: i) scientific understanding of residential PM2.5, ii) engineering solutions to reduce residential PM2.5, and iii) residents through reduced indoor airborne pollutant concentrations.
Objectives
- EnergyPlus developed to include size distribution representation of PM2.5
- Develop EnergyPlus to represent coagulation, gas-particle partitioning of water, size-dependent deposition, infiltration and emission
- Evaluate against existing measurements from the Salford Energy House and University of York INTERIORS test homes
Methods
EnergyPlus is an open-source dynamic thermal simulator for buildings using multi-box representation. It simulates pressure gradients and the resulting advection of air. Stand-alone EnergyPlus allows simultaneous solution of the mass transport of a single pollutant, meaning its simulation of PM2.5 is limited by assuming a single size bin. However, an operator-split plug-in: the Energy Management System (EMS), provides in-step solution of unlimited processes affecting multiple pollutants.
Through the EMS, PM2.5 size distribution will be implemented by the moving-centre approach. Inter-box and outdoor exchange of the particle size distribution will be implemented in the EMS through differential equations of mass balance. The EMS will then be set to just one size bin to evaluate mass transport representation against stand-alone EnergyPlus. Corrections necessary for operator-splitting divergence from simultaneous solution will be investigated and implemented.
Next, coagulation and gas-particle partitioning of water, size-dependent deposition of particles, infiltration and emission from indoor sources will be included using the numerical PyCHAM box model as a basis. Then, evaluation and correction for operator-splitting through comparison against PyCHAM.
Finally, evaluation against measurements taken during experiments in Energy House and INTERIORS, both highly instrumented test home experiments affected by the newly implemented PM2.5 processes.
Potential outcomes
EnergyPlus sets the international standard for energy performance simulation of buildings, able to represent all existing ventilation types. By also bringing representation of PM2.5 to international standard, scientists have a novel opportunity to quantitively investigate the interaction of air pressure gradients and influential PM2.5 processes. Additionally, engineers are provided with a robust tool for investigating ventilation options that optimise finance, practicality and health.
Student support
The wellbeing and professional development of the student is the priority of the supervisors who have supervised more than 25 PhD studentships. The student will join vibrant research groups, operating at high standards of project management. Weekly meetings will provide regular research guardrails. Annual meetings for expectations and skills audits, and quarterly research and professional development reviews will act to support and empower the student so that their time is enjoyable and realises their potential.
Training/techniques
Supervisor O’Meara will provide training in PyCHAM and EnergyPlus codes. Gaps in programming techniques will be addressed through University-based training courses, whilst gaps in atmospheric science will be addressed through the National Centre for Atmospheric Science training course. Supervisor Keshmiri will advise on mathematical techniques related to the airflow aspects of EnergyPlus. Supervisor Bannan will advise on techniques related to evaluating against the test home experiments.
This project is expected to start in September 2027.
Before you apply: We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisors for this project before you apply.
How to apply:
To be considered for this project you must complete a formal application through our online application portal. If you already have an applicant account this link will directly open an application for PhD School of Natural Sciences Scholarships. If you don’t already have an applicant account, please follow the instructions here.
When applying, please specify the full title and supervisor/s of the project, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees. You must also upload a Supporting Statement describing your motivation to apply to the project, your CV and transcripts of awarded and in-progress university qualifications. Please note late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester and central to all our activities. A diverse research community strengthens creativity, productivity and quality, while increasing the societal and economic impact of our work. We welcome applicants from all career paths, backgrounds and sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation or transgender status.
We welcome applications from candidates returning to study after a career break or experience in other roles. Flexible study arrangements may be available, including part-time study at 50%, 60% or 80%, subject to the requirements of the project and funder.
Eligibility: The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree (or international equivalent) in Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, Environmental Science, Software Engineering or Fluid Mechanics OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit (or international equivalent) in Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, Environmental Science, Software Engineering or Fluid Mechanics. Previous research experience in Building Physics or air quality is desirable.
This project will remain open until filled.
If your application is submitted by 1st November 2026, you can expect a decision by 18th December 2026.
If your application is submitted by 15th January 2027, you can expect a decision by 30th March 2027.
Self or externally funded students can also be considered for this project.
FSE_SoNS
Funding Notes
Funding covers tuition fees, an annual stipend at the UKRI minimum rate (currently £21,805 per year), and a research training support grant of up to £2,500 per year for the full 3.5-year programme.