Kimmo Lylykangas

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 .

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] .

The Tallinn University of Technology School of Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, is offering a 4-year PhD position focused on the topic of "Dynamic outdoor thermal comfort assessment to enhance user experience along urban pathways in a Nordic climate." This research opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in the intersection of civil engineering, architecture, and environmental science, with a strong emphasis on urban microclimate, thermal comfort, and sustainable urban design. The PhD project will be supervised by Senior Researcher Dr. Francesco De Luca and Tenured Full Professor Kimmo Lylykangas, both from the Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Academy of Architecture and Urban Studies at Tallinn University of Technology. The research aims to advance knowledge in outdoor thermal comfort, urban energy balance, and bioclimatic indices, utilizing state-of-the-art simulation and analysis tools such as ENVI-met, SOLWEIG, Eddy3D/OpenFOAM, ClimateStudio/EnergyPlus, Ladybug Tools/Radiance, and programming languages like Python and C# for environmental modeling and workflow automation. Applicants should hold a master's degree in architecture or civil engineering, demonstrate excellent English proficiency, and possess strong analytical and writing skills. Experience or willingness to learn in areas such as microclimate simulation, parametric design, environmental analysis, data processing, statistical analysis, machine learning, GIS-based spatial analysis, and field measurements is highly valued. The position is salaried for the full 4-year duration, providing financial stability throughout the doctoral studies. To apply, candidates must prepare a CV, motivation letter, degree certificates, and a research plan outlining their approach to the proposed topic. Applications should be sent to Dr. Francesco De Luca at [email protected]. Detailed information about the PhD admission process, requirements, and available positions can be found on the official TalTech website. The application deadline for the autumn semester is December 28, 2025. This opportunity is particularly suited for those passionate about sustainable urban environments, advanced environmental modeling, and improving user experience in Nordic urban climates. The research will contribute to the development of innovative solutions for urban design and planning, with a focus on enhancing outdoor thermal comfort and supporting sustainable city development.