This PhD position is part of the IEBB MMIP 3 research project on Integrated Energy Transition of the Existing Building Stock, which was granted by the Dutch Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO). As part of this large project, this position focuses on the development and assessment of energy renovation concepts in relation to the energy supply system. This especially involves the required temperature level of the heat demission system, since many sustainable heating alternatives provide lower temperatures than the current supply with natural gas boilers. The aimed results include: indicators and tools to enable an easier assessment of the required temperature levels; insight into which renovation measures are suitable per building type to enable low(er) temperature heating, and an evaluation of existing renovation concepts, in close collaboration with other (industry) partners in the research programme. The PhD student will be the main researcher on this topic. He or she will be supervised by the staff of the chairs of Building Physics and Services and Building Product Innovation. Among the activities, the PhD will: 1) Develop background studies on building types, renovation concepts, energy systems and assessment tools; 2) carry out dynamic energy simulations; 3) Collaborate with other partners in the consortium to realise integration of the knowledge developed within the programme; 4) Develop/co-author outputs for reporting and dissemination.5) write and defend a PhD thesis.

We are looking for a person with a relevant master’s degree and an interest in the energy transition for the built environment, focussing on the role of energy renovation in this challenge; who has a good understanding of building physics and is already skilled in energy simulations or enthusiastic to learn; You will work on a highly societally and scientifically relevant topic, embedded in a large research project with many research- and industry partners.

Applicants should have:

• a master’s degree in a discipline such as Building Technology, Architecture, Building Physics, Energy Engineering, Industrial Design, or other related discipline;
• knowledge of building physics, energy systems and passive climate design for energy efficient buildings;
• preferably experience with dynamic energy simulation tools such as Design Builder, TRNSYS or EnergyPlus;
• an interest in the building industry and preferably knowledge of construction methods;
• good communication skills and very proficient in spoken and written English (understanding of Dutch is a strong advantage).

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers a yearly salary increase and a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

Technische Universiteit Delft

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

Faculty Architecture & the Built Environment

The Department of Architectural Engineering + Technology provides education and performs scientific research in the field of building technology related to building design. It positions itself as an important player in the integration of design and engineering. The main core areas of interest are façade design, structural design, climate design and computational design with an important core focus on sustainability.

You will be based at the chair of Building Physics and Services (BP&S), but the project involves a collaboration between this chair and the chair of Building Product Innovation. The focus of the first is on sustainable, comfortable and healthy buildings, of the latter on innovative product design to enable fast and cost-effective renovation solutions.