University: Birmingham City University
Country: United Kingdom
Deadline: 2025-09-17
Fields: Civil Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, Computer Science, Environmental Engineering
Are you passionate about leveraging digital technologies to advance sustainability in the built environment—and ready to shape the future of construction through innovative research?
The construction industry is undergoing a digital revolution, with sustainability and energy efficiency at its core. This fully funded PhD opportunity at Birmingham City University offers the chance to develop a cutting-edge Semantic Open-BIM Digital Twin Framework, aimed at transforming the way prefabricated buildings are retrofitted and integrated with circular energy solutions. If you aspire to become a leader in digital construction, sustainability, or smart building technologies, this program could be the perfect next step in your academic and professional journey.
About The University Or Research Institute
Birmingham City University (BCU), located in the vibrant heart of Birmingham, United Kingdom, is renowned for its commitment to innovative research and industry collaboration. As one of the largest universities in the UK, BCU offers a dynamic academic environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong links with the construction and engineering sectors. The university is recognized for its impactful research in architecture, engineering, and the built environment, supporting students and researchers in making real-world contributions to society. Living and studying in Birmingham provides access to a diverse, multicultural city with a thriving economy and a rich history in industrial innovation.
Research Topic and Significance
The focus of this PhD is the development of a Semantic Open-BIM Digital Twin Framework for sustainable prefabricated building retrofits, incorporating circular energy integration. As the world faces increasing demands for energy efficiency, carbon reduction, and sustainable urban development, retrofitting existing buildings with advanced digital solutions has become a critical challenge. Open-BIM (Building Information Modeling) and digital twin technologies enable real-time data-driven decision-making, facilitating more effective, sustainable, and cost-efficient building retrofits. This research will contribute to the global movement toward greener cities and smarter infrastructure, aligning with pressing societal and environmental goals.
Also See
* UK – PhD in Electromagnetic Energy Harvesters at Birmingham City University
* Fully Funded PhD in Human-Robot Collaboration and AI for Construction Engineering at UTSA
* PhD Opportunity in Computational Solar-Driven Evaporation at University of Birmingham
* Fully Funded PhD Fellowships in Sustainability and Circular Economy at SDU
* Australia – PhD in Data-Driven Modelling for Sustainable Energy at Curtin University
Project Details
The doctoral project centers on creating a semantic framework that integrates Open-BIM standards with digital twin technology, specifically tailored for prefabricated building retrofits. The research will explore circular energy integration, leveraging data-driven analysis and cutting-edge digital construction tools. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work with leading experts in digital construction and sustainability, and will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard platforms such as Revit, Navisworks, and IFC-based systems. The project is designed to foster collaboration across disciplines, including construction management, engineering, architecture, and computer science.
Candidate Profile
This position is suited for highly motivated candidates who possess:
– Proficiency in BIM/digital construction tools (e.g., Revit, Navisworks, IFC-based platforms)
– Programming experience (preferably Python)
– Data analysis and visualization expertise
Relevant experience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable:
– Construction management, engineering, or architecture
– Digital construction and OpenBIM standards
– Sustainability and retrofit innovation
– Data-driven analysis, IoT integration, or machine learning application
Successful applicants will demonstrate a strong interest in digital construction, sustainability, and interdisciplinary research. A proactive, problem-solving mindset and the ability to collaborate effectively within a diverse research team are essential.
Application Process
The application closing date is midday (UK Time), Wednesday 17th September 2025. The expected start date for the successful candidate is 2nd February 2026.
For full details and to apply, please visit the official university page:
https://www.bcu.ac.uk/research/our-phds/phd-opportunities/architecture-built-environment-computing-and-engineering/semantic-open-bim-digital-twin-framework-for-data-driven-prefabricated-building-retrofit-with-circular-energy-integration
Conclusion
If you are eager to drive innovation in digital construction and sustainability, and to contribute to real-world solutions for the built environment, this fully funded PhD at Birmingham City University offers an outstanding platform for your research ambitions. We encourage all eligible candidates to apply and to explore similar opportunities to shape the future of sustainable construction.
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