University of Nottingham

What you'll study

The doctoral programme is research-led rather than taught. You will undertake an independent research project under the guidance of academic supervisors, developing a substantial thesis that advances knowledge in a specialist area of building technology. Typical research topics include building physics and hygrothermal performance, material durability and pathology, energy efficiency and retrofit of existing buildings, façade engineering, indoor environmental quality, fire performance, acoustic design, digital design and building information modelling (BIM), and whole-life performance and sustainability assessment.

Although the emphasis is on original research, you will normally be expected to engage with a range of supporting activities: literature review and state-of-the-art analysis; development of experimental, analytical or numerical methods; laboratory or field measurements; case study work; and dissemination through journal papers and conferences. Students may also take research training modules in research methods, statistics, project management and academic writing provided by the Doctoral School and relevant departments to support skills required for successful completion.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant master’s degree (such as MSc, MRes or equivalent) with strong academic performance in fields like building services engineering, civil engineering, architecture, materials science, environmental technology or related disciplines. Candidates with a good honours degree and demonstrable research experience, professional experience or publications may also be considered. A clearly defined research proposal aligned with potential supervisors’ expertise, a Curriculum Vitae, and academic references are required as part of the application.

International applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the University’s English language requirements; candidates typically meet this through a recognised test such as IELTS or equivalent. The selection process may include an interview with proposed supervisors and an assessment of fit between the applicant’s research aims and the School’s strengths.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Building Technology PhD commonly move into academic and research careers as postdoctoral researchers or university lecturers. Many also pursue roles in industry and the public sector: senior positions in building and façade consultancy, specialist contractor and refurbishment teams, materials and product R&D, energy and sustainability consultancies, testing and certification bodies, and government or regulation bodies concerned with building performance and policy. Doctoral graduates may also work in multidisciplinary research centres, technology start-ups focused on construction innovation, or in leadership roles within large engineering and construction firms where deep technical expertise is required.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham offers a supportive research environment with access to experienced supervisors across architecture, civil and structural engineering, materials and environmental sciences, enabling interdisciplinary approaches to building technology questions. Research students benefit from the University’s doctoral training, research seminars and industry links, which can provide opportunities for collaborative projects and knowledge exchange with practitioners.

Facilities include well-equipped laboratories and workshop spaces for experimental work, as well as access to computing and modelling resources for simulation and data analysis. The University’s global partnerships and collaborations broaden the potential for international fieldwork and industry engagement, while the Doctoral School provides structured support for skills development, career planning and peer networks throughout the PhD journey.