Optimising NatHERS Whole of Home Rating through Advanced Heating and Cooling Appliance Integration

About this project 

If you are seeking to build a career in the energy field and are concerned about the energy consumption of heating and cooling appliances in Australia’s residential buildings, the University of South Australia – Australia’s University of Enterprise – is offering a real-world and transformative project-based PhD within the Future Industries Institute (FII), in partnership with Seeley International and CSIRO.  
  
This PhD project focuses on enhancing the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) by developing advanced models for heating and cooling appliances used in Australian homes.  
  
By integrating these models into the NatHERS simulation engine, the research aims to provide more accurate predictions of energy consumption and improve indoor thermal comfort across Australia’s diverse climate zones.  
  
The outcomes of this project will enable homeowners, builders, and policymakers to make informed decisions that enhance energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to Australia’s transition to net-zero housing. 
  
What you’ll do

In this project-based research degree, you will work closely with Seeley International, leveraging real-world data from their advanced testing facilities for evaporative coolers and reverse-cycle air conditioners while collaborating with their Research and Development Team.  
  
A significant opportunity will include a placement at CSIRO’s Clayton facilities, where you will work directly with the Building Energy Efficiency Team. This experience will enhance your practical skills and deepen your understanding of Australia’s house energy rating software.  
  
Finally, you will share your findings through academic papers, conferences, and presentations, contributing to discussions on sustainable energy solutions and national energy policies.  
  
This project offers a unique research experience that blends academic rigor with industry relevance, preparing the applicant for impactful roles in academia and the energy sector. Travel opportunities for the CSIRO placement and various conferences will further enrich your professional journey. 

Where you’ll be based

You will be based in FII which was established with a new research culture in mind – one deeply engaged with industry, with the end goal of building economic growth through relevant innovation and industry partnership.  
  
The Institute reflects the University’s strategic ambition to be Australia’s University of Enterprise which engages fully with the professions and industry globally, whose research is informed, leading edge and relevant. FII continues to forge national and international research partnerships in new industries and technologies that address real world issues. Our goal is to support a creative and engaged culture and to help develop a sustainable ecosystem in which innovation, complex, growth-focused industries thrive.  
  
FII's research supports state and national research priorities and comprises top research teams able to collaborate across disciplines and to work with industry partners to deliver innovative solutions.  
  
With a vibrant research environment, a strong industry orientation, and active international and national links, both academic and industry based, the Institute is among the very best in Australia and attracts and retains leading researchers. Financial Support  

This project is funded for reasonable research expenses. Additionally, a living allowance scholarship of $47,000 per annum is available to Australian and New Zealand citizens, and permanent residents of Australia, including permanent humanitarian visa holders. A four-year Project Expenses and Development package of $13,000 per annum is also provided. A fee-offset or waiver for the standard term of the program is also included. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants will be eligible to receive an increased stipend rate of $50,291 per annum. For full terms and benefits of the scholarship please refer to our scholarship information.

Eligibility and Selection 

This project is open to applications from Australian or New Zealand citizens, and Australian permanent residents or permanent humanitarian visa holders. International applicants are not invited to apply at this time.

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for entrance into a PhD. Additionally applicants must meet the project selection criteria: 

• Knowledge and/or experience in software packages or computer programming languages 
• Knowledge and/or experience in thermal energy systems

All applications that meet the eligibility and selection criteria will be considered for this project. A merit selection process will be used to determine the successful candidate.

The successful applicant is expected to study full-time and to be based at our Mawson Lakes Campus in the north of Adelaide. 

Essential Dates 

Applicants are expected to start in a timely fashion upon receipt of an offer. Extended deferral periods are not available. Applications close on Sunday 12 January 2025.