Funded MSc by Research at Cranfield University
Cranfield Health is offering a fully-funded research opportunity
Cranfield University is one of the top five research intensive universities in the UK**. As an exclusively postgraduate university, Cranfield offers a professional and focused study environment where you will be surrounded by like-minded people. The successful candidate will benefit from our top UK University ranking for staff-to-student ratio***, close links with industry and state-of-the-art facilities.
MSc by Research- Risks to health of carbon monoxide and other combustion gases in energy efficient homes (Ref:SS-HDP080019)
Application deadline: 24 February 2010
Supervisor: Dr Derrick Crump, Director Institute of Environment and Health, Cranfield University.
Duration of award: 1 year
Award type: MSc by Research
Background: A fundamental shift is underway in the manner that new homes are designed and the methods of heating and ventilation used in order to improve energy efficiency to combat the threat of climate change. The government intends that all new homes will be ‘zero carbon’ by 2016 with a progressive tightening of the energy efficiency aspects of the building regulations in advance of that target date. There is a need to manage risks associated with the release of pollutants, e.g. from gas cookers, as part of designing airtight buildings with adequate ventilation, including consideration of occupant behaviour. Furthermore, the encouragement of low or zero carbon technologies may result in an increase in use of biomass fuels such as wood based pellets or biodiesel, and this could have some different exposure risks compared with appliances using conventional fuels.
The project: The student will undertake an investigation of the risks of occupant exposure to carbon monoxide (CO) and other combustion gases in highly energy efficient homes. The work will comprise a combination of desk study, discussions with builders and appliance manufacturers, measurements of combustion generated pollutants (carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, particulates and some organic compounds) and questionnaires addressing occupant behaviour. The information and data will be applied to assess the risks associated with changes in construction practice, and provide recommendations for any required action to mitigate risks.
Entry Requirements: Relevant science degree (preferably first or upper second class honours) with knowledge of chemistry, pollution, instrumentation, health.
Funding: CORGI Trust support providing a stipend of £12k and payment of registration fees.
For further information visit our website: http://www.cranfield.ac.uk/health/postgraduatestudy/researchopportunities/page44945.jsp or to request an Application Form be sent to you in the post, please contact our Enquiries Office:
T: +44 (0)1234 758008
E: enquiries.health@cranfield.ac.uk
When applying or enquiring about this research position please quote the research title and reference number (SS-HDP080019).