PhD/MPhil Positions at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)

Are you passionate about cutting-edge research in the fields of Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), zero energy/carbon buildings, and sustainable construction? Do you aspire to work alongside leading industry partners to revolutionize the automatic manufacture and construction of BIPV systems? Look no further! The research group of Prof. Changying Xiang at the Division of Integrative Systems and Design at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Hong Kong) is seeking highly motivated and talented PhD/MPhil candidates to join our dynamic team.

About the Research Group and Project:

The interdisciplinary research group, led by Prof. Changying XIANG, is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of sustainable design and construction practices. Our team collaborates closely with the Hong Kong Construction Research Centre (HKCRC) and renowned industrial partners to advance the field of automatic BIPV manufacture and construction/installation. By integrating the latest technologies such as prefabrication/modular integration construction, automatic construction, Building Information Modeling (BIM), digital twins, smart manufacturing of PV modules and components, large-scale thin-film PV manufacturing, smart windows (electrochromic glazing), and structural colour coating, we aim to develop innovative solutions for sustainable and energy-efficient buildings.

Position Details:

As a PhD/MPhil candidate in our research group, you will have the unique opportunity to work on groundbreaking projects that have the potential to revolutionize the construction industry. You will collaborate with HKCRC and our industrial partners to tackle real-world challenges related to automatic BIPV manufacture and construction/installation. Your research will contribute to the development of advanced methods, techniques, and technologies in the following areas:

1. Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV): Investigate novel approaches to seamlessly integrate PV modules into building components, enabling energy generation while maintaining architectural aesthetics.
2. Zero Energy/Carbon Building: Explore strategies and technologies to achieve buildings with zero net energy consumption or carbon emissions, contributing to sustainability and environmental preservation.
3. Prefabrication/Modular Integration Construction: Develop innovative methods for off-site construction and modular integration, optimizing efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
4. Automatic Construction: Investigate automation technologies, robotics, and artificial intelligence to streamline and enhance construction processes, improving productivity and safety.
5. Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Digital Twin for Building: Harness the power of BIM and digital twin technologies to improve design, construction, and operational efficiency of buildings, enabling smart decision-making and lifecycle management.
6. Smart Manufacture of PV Modules and Components: Explore advanced manufacturing techniques for efficient production of PV modules and components, integrating smart features and improving performance.
7. Thin-film PV Manufacture: Investigate large-scale thin-film PV manufacturing methods with an emphasis on enhancing efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness, contributing to the widespread adoption of renewable energy.
8. Smart Windows (Electrochromic Glazing): Research advanced glazing technologies, such as electrochromic glazing, for smart windows that enhance energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and visual aesthetics.
9. Structural Colour Coating: Explore innovative coatings and materials that exhibit structural color properties, enabling energy-efficient and visually appealing building surfaces.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, Architecture, Materials Science, or related disciplines from a leading university.
• Strong academic record and demonstrated research capabilities through publications, projects, or internships related to BIPV, zero energy/carbon building, sustainable construction, or related fields.
• Strong motivation, creativity, and ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Proficiency in programming languages, data analysis tools, or simulation software related to the research area is desirable.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• Experience with hands-on practice/projects on BIPV, building construction, and smart manufacturing is highly preferred.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications electronically to Prof. Changying XIANG as soon as possible via email at changyingx@ust.hk, he application package should include the following:

• Cover letter expressing your interest, research experience, and motivation to join the ISD research group.
• Detailed curriculum vitae (CV) including academic background, research experience, publications (if any), and contact information.
• Research proposal
• Academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• Names and contact information of at least two references.
• Any additional supporting documents (e.g., research samples, certificates) that demonstrate your qualifications.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to apply through the HKUST system.

For the 2024 Spring intake, the application Deadline in HKUST system for HK residents and international applicants: 15th Dec. 2023. The admitted candidates will get studentships (HK$18,390 per month) during the normative study period. The studentship is intended to help cover daily subsistence, tuition fees and other expenses that students may incur during the course of the study.

For outstanding candidates applying for 2024 Autumn intake, there are opportunities to be recommended by the division for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship. For more details, please visit https://fytgs.hkust.edu.hk/hkpfs. The University is now inviting applications for 2024-25 admissions. Please make sure that you complete both RGC and HKUST applications. The application deadline for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship is 1 Dec 2023. 

For more studentship and scholarship information, please visit: https://ppol.hkust.edu.hk/mphil-mphil-phd-scholarshipstudentship.

We offer competitive research assistantships and a stimulating research environment at HKUST, a world-class research university located in Hong Kong—a vibrant and multicultural city known for its innovation and technological advancements.

Join us in shaping the future of sustainable construction and becoming a leading researcher in the field of automatic BIPV manufacture and construction/installation. Take the first step towards an exciting research career by applying to the ISD research group at HKUST today!