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

About this project 

Improve the energy efficiency of residential buildings

Are you passionate about creating a sustainable future? Do you dream of shaping the next generation of energy-efficient homes? At the University of South Australia – Australia’s University of Enterprise, we’re offering an exciting, real-world PhD opportunity to tackle one of the nation’s biggest energy challenges: optimising residential heating and cooling systems.

This transformative research project, hosted by the Future Industries Institute, is conducted in collaboration with industry leaders Seeley International and CSIRO, two powerhouses in sustainable innovation. As the PhD student, you will contribute to enhancing the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) by developing cutting-edge models for heating and cooling appliances used in Australian homes.

Your work will improve energy consumption predictions, optimise indoor comfort across Australia’s diverse climates, and contribute to Australia’s goal of net-zero housing. This project isn’t just about research; it’s about making a meaningful difference in people’s lives, homes, and the planet.  

What you’ll do

In this hands-on research degree, you will:

• Collaborate with Seeley International, leveraging real-world data from their advanced testing facilities and their renowned Research and Development Team.
• Gain invaluable experience with CSIRO’s Building Energy Efficiency Team, including a placement at their state-of-the-art Clayton facilities.
• Develop advanced simulation models that will shape the future of NatHERS, empowering policymakers, homeowners, and builders to make smarter energy decisions.
• Share your ground breaking discoveries through academic papers, international conferences, and key industry presentations.

This unique PhD blends academic excellence with industry relevance, setting you up for leadership roles in academia, the energy sector, or government policy. And with opportunities to travel for placements and conferences, you will build a global network while contributing to cutting-edge solutions for sustainable energy. 

Where you’ll be based

You will be based in the Future Industries Institute (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 $52,352 per annum (2025 rate). 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 Tuesday, 8 April, 2025.