PhD Position in Dynamic Outdoor Thermal Comfort Assessment for Urban Pathways in Nordic Climates Tallinn University of Technology in Estonia

The School of Engineering at Tallinn University of Technology is offering a 4-year, fully funded PhD position in the Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture. The research will focus on the dynamic assessment of outdoor thermal comfort to enhance user experience along urban cycling and walking pathways in the Nordic climate of Estonia. The project is supervised by Dr. Francesco De Luca (Senior Researcher) and Professor Kimmo Lylykangas, both from the Academy of Architecture and Urban Studies.

This PhD project aims to develop robust methodologies for evaluating dynamic outdoor thermal comfort, integrating parametric urban design, high-resolution microclimate simulations, environmental measurements, GIS, Digital Twin technologies, and machine learning. The research will contribute to a Horizon Europe pilot project, creating a scenario-based platform for comprehensive evaluation of urban design solutions and mitigation strategies to improve user experience throughout all seasons.

The project addresses key research gaps in current methodologies, which often fail to account for the spatio-temporal variability of thermal comfort, especially for individuals in motion. By combining advanced simulation tools, environmental data, and predictive modelling, the candidate will develop frameworks and tools to assess and optimize thermal comfort along urban mobility corridors, considering both heat and cold stress in a Nordic context.

Responsibilities include conducting literature reviews, developing and validating new methodologies, performing environmental and microclimatic measurements, creating parametric design workflows, and developing fast predictive algorithms and machine learning models. The candidate will also collaborate in the development of an interactive scenario-based platform for urban planners and decision-makers.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in architecture or civil engineering, excellent English proficiency, strong analytical and writing skills, and the ability to work independently and in teams. Experience with microclimate simulation tools, parametric design environments, programming, data analysis, GIS, and field measurements is highly beneficial. Application documents include a CV, motivation letter, degree certificates, research plan, and passport copy.

The position offers the opportunity to conduct high-level research in one of Estonia’s leading research centers, with access to a large portfolio of sustainability, digitalization, and energy efficiency projects. The PhD is funded through the EU Horizon Europe Climate-neutral and Smart Cities Missions project (COdesign urban REalm & dynamic Spaces management for cognitive & socially connected cities, Tallinn University of Technology pilot MTAR4 – Microclimate). The project duration is from March 2026 to February 2030.

For more information and application instructions, visit https://taltech.ee/en/phd-admission or contact Dr. Francesco De Luca at [email protected].