PhD Position in Civil Engineering and Architecture: Dynamic Outdoor Thermal Comfort Assessment in Nordic Urban Pathways Tallinn University of Technology in Estonia

The Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech), School of Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, invites applications for a 4-year PhD position focused on "Dynamic outdoor thermal comfort assessment to enhance user experience along urban pathways in a Nordic climate." This research opportunity is situated in Tallinn, Estonia, and is part of the Academy of Architecture and Urban Studies. The project is funded by the EU Horizon Europe Climate-neutral and Smart Cities Missions project, specifically the COdesign urban REalm & dynamic Spaces management for cognitive & socially connected cities, Tallinn University of Technology pilot MTAR4 – Microclimate.

The PhD project aims to develop and validate methodologies for assessing dynamic outdoor thermal comfort along cycling and walking pathways in urban areas, with a special focus on the Nordic climate. The research will integrate parametric urban design, high-resolution microclimate simulations, environmental measurements, GIS and Digital Twin technologies, and machine learning. The ultimate goal is to create a scenario-based platform for the interactive evaluation of design solutions and mitigation strategies to enhance user experience throughout all seasons.

Key research objectives include: (1) developing robust methodologies for dynamic outdoor thermal comfort assessment, (2) identifying and evaluating mitigation strategies and design solutions for year-round comfort, and (3) realizing predictive tools using fast parametric algorithms and machine learning models to support scenario-based assessments. The project will address research gaps in current methodologies, which often fail to account for spatio-temporal variations and the competing objectives of reducing both heat and cold stress in urban environments.

As a PhD candidate, you will conduct literature reviews, develop and implement parametric design workflows, perform environmental and microclimatic measurements, and collaborate in the programming and development of a scenario-based platform. You will also extract and analyze structured spatio-temporal datasets related to urban form, material properties, vegetation, climate, and thermal comfort response.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in architecture or civil engineering, excellent English skills, strong analytical and writing abilities, and the capacity to work both independently and as part of an international team. Beneficial skills include experience with microclimate simulation tools (e.g., ENVI-met, SOLWEIG), parametric design and environmental analysis software, programming (Python, C#), data processing, statistical analysis, machine learning, GIS-based spatial analysis, and field measurements.

The position offers the opportunity to conduct high-level research in one of Estonia’s leading civil engineering and architecture research centers, with access to a large portfolio of European and national projects in built environment sustainability, digitalization, and energy efficiency. The PhD includes funding for four years, opportunities for conference participation, and networking with global leaders in the field.

The application deadline is April 17, 2026. For application instructions and required documents, visit TalTech’s PhD admission page and send your application materials to Dr. Francesco De Luca at [email protected]. Applications can also be initiated via Academic Positions.