Building Sustainability and Occupant Well-being: Data-Driven Design Optimization Kingston University in United Kingdom

The PhD project "Building Sustainability and Occupant Well-being: Data-Driven Design Optimization" at Kingston University offers an exciting opportunity to address the intersection of sustainability and human well-being in the built environment. Hosted by the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment, this research aims to optimize building designs by harmonizing ecological efficiency with occupant health and comfort, leveraging advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics.

Modern building design often faces a dichotomy between sustainability and occupant well-being, with traditional approaches prioritizing one at the expense of the other. This project seeks to challenge and bridge this gap by investigating how architectural elements—such as window design, material selection, and insulation—impact both the environmental performance of buildings and the quality of life for their occupants. The research will delve into the nuanced interplay between the building envelope and its dual effects on sustainability and well-being.

As a PhD student, you will begin by exploring the relationship between human well-being and sustainability in the built environment. This will involve data mining and analysis of human behaviour and building performance records, using AI techniques to model and understand their interconnections. The project emphasizes real-world applications, allowing you to test AI-driven design strategies in practical scenarios and assess their effectiveness in enhancing both sustainability and occupant comfort.

Interdisciplinary collaboration is a key feature of this research, merging insights from architecture, engineering, psychology, and data science. You will have opportunities to work with experts across these fields, participate in research activities at various facilities, and gain a holistic perspective on the challenges and opportunities in sustainable building design.

Funding for this position is available through the Kingston University Graduate School studentships competition for October 2026 entry, typically covering tuition and a stipend for successful candidates. Applicants should have a strong academic background in architecture, engineering, environmental science, computer science, or related disciplines, with an interest in AI and data analytics. English language proficiency is required.

The application deadline is March 4, 2026. Prospective candidates should review the Graduate School Studentships information and the Faculty research webpage, prepare their application materials, and submit via the university's portal. This project offers the chance to contribute to academic research and influence practical applications in the building industry, setting new standards for future designs that balance planetary health and human well-being.