Robert Gordon University

Overview

The PhD program in Creating a Digital Twin for Robert Gordon University (RGU) Campus is dedicated to the development of a digital twin aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and supporting decarbonisation efforts within the university's built environment. This research-driven program allows candidates to employ advanced environmental and energy modeling techniques to identify cost-effective strategies for improving campus energy performance.

What you'll study

Programme Structure

• You will collaborate with an academic team to develop a research proposal focused on the digital twin and campus energy performance.
• The program typically begins with a period dedicated to confirming your topic, conducting a literature review, and designing your methodology, followed by data collection and analysis.
• Engagement in research training and academic development activities is expected as per RGU's requirements.

Typical research phases

• Phase 1: Proposal development and baseline study — Refine research questions, review literature related to digital twins and building performance, and establish the baseline energy and environmental context of the campus.
• Phase 2: Digital twin development — Define your modeling approach, identify data requirements, and establish system boundaries; build or configure the digital twin framework to represent campus assets and operating conditions.
• Phase 3: Scenario testing and evaluation — Test various energy-saving and decarbonisation scenarios; assess expected performance, feasibility, and risk.
• Phase 4: Recommendations and thesis writing — Synthesize research findings into actionable insights for estate planning and prepare the thesis for submission and examination.

Thesis requirement

• Submission of a written thesis based on original research, accompanied by an oral examination as required by RGU regulations.

Topic flexibility

• Applicants are encouraged to explore specific research angles within the broader theme, such as data integration, calibration/validation, energy modeling, intervention prioritization, or decision-support workflows.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need to hold a first degree or an upper second class honours degree from a UK university, or an overseas qualification deemed equivalent, subject to approval by Robert Gordon University.

Career prospects

This PhD program prepares graduates for various career paths in academia, research institutions, and industry sectors focused on energy efficiency, sustainable development, and smart campus technologies. Graduates will be equipped with the skills to lead initiatives aimed at decarbonising built environments and enhancing energy performance across different settings.