PhD positions in Energy Technology with focus on Human–Building Interaction

Wifo; Umeå kommun; On-site; SEK 312,480 - 357,120; Full time

Job summary

Wifo is seeking a PhD student in Energy Technology focusing on Human-Building Interaction at Umeå University. The role includes conducting innovative research on household energy behavior and engaging with immersive environments.

The candidate is expected to have a second-cycle degree or equivalent, with special emphasis on research experience in sustainable environments. This position is ideal for motivated candidates ready to contribute to cutting-edge research.

Qualifications

• Completed a second-cycle level degree or equivalent.
• 120 credits in Energy Technology or relevant fields.
• Demonstrate strong motivation and goal-orientation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in human-building interaction.
• Participate in doctoral courses and teaching.
• Engage in experimental research using advanced sensing technologies.

Skills

Critical thinking

Collaborative skills

Fluency in English

Quantitative data analysis

Education

Second-cycle degree or equivalent

Courses of at least 120 credits in Energy Technology

Tools

Agent-based modeling

AI-supported behavioral analysis

Job description

PhD positions in Energy Technology with focus on Human–Building Interaction

The Department of Applied Physics and Electronics currently has around 100 employees and conducts research in energy technology, applied optics, electronics, and medical technology. The department hosts the Intelligent Human-Buildings Interaction (IHBI) Lab, an interdisciplinary research hub pioneering novel methods to study interactions between humans and the built environment. The lab provides a cutting‑edge experimental platform that integrates immersive virtual environments with a state‑of‑the‑art climate chamber, enabling realistic scenarios to be tested under controlled and repeatable conditions.

We are recruiting a PhD student in Energy Technology with a focus on Human–Building Interaction. Start date is September 15, 2026 or as agreed. The application deadline is August 15, 2026.

Project description

The project aims to generate new knowledge on how households interact with energy systems in a sustainable built environment. Particular emphasis is placed on different human behaviors, opportunities for participation, and issues related to social sustainability. By combining perspectives from building technology, environmental psychology, and human–building interaction, the project will contribute to a deeper understanding of how sustainable energy transitions can be designed in ways that are technically effective, socially robust, and relevant to real‑life residential contexts.

The project employs a combination of methods, including controlled experiments in the IHBI laboratory, studies in immersive and intelligent built environments, and analysis of behavioral and physiological data. The work also includes the development of personas, the use of LLM‑enhanced decision narratives, and agent‑based social modeling.

The knowledge generated in the project will form the basis for new methods and tools to better analyze household energy behaviors. Particular focus is placed on identifying barriers and variations between different user groups, as well as developing evidence‑based strategies for more inclusive and sustainable energy solutions in the built environment.

As a doctoral student in the project, you will be involved in experimental research combining immersive virtual environments, climate chamber testing, and advanced sensing technologies. The aim is to develop new knowledge on human–building interaction, indoor environmental experiences, adaptive behaviour, and inclusive energy‑efficient solutions.

Qualifications

To be admitted for studies at third‑cycle level the applicant is required to have completed a second‑cycle level degree or at least 240 credits of courses, of which at least 60 credits are at second‑cycle level, or have an equivalent education from another educational system, or equivalent qualifications.

To fulfil the specific entry requirements to be admitted for studies at third‑cycle level in Energy Technology, the applicant must have completed courses of at least 120 credits within the field of Energy Technology or other related subject areas considered to be relevant for the project.

The requirements for prior knowledge as set out above are also considered to be fulfilled by a person who otherwise would acquire equivalent knowledge abroad and which can be proven.

The requirements must be fulfilled at the time of admission to the doctoral programme, but do not need to be met at the time of application.

We are looking for a highly motivated and goal‑oriented candidate who has the ability to think critically and a constructive approach to feedback. The applicant should demonstrate good collaborative skills and be able to work effectively with other members of a research group. Fluency in English, both in oral and written forms, is mandatory.

It is considered a strong merit if you have:

• a background in construction engineering, building engineering, or building energy
• documented knowledge and experience of research within sustainable built environments
• experience in studies of occupant behaviour as well as experimental work in immersive or intelligent indoor environments
• experience in quantitative data analysis and modelling methods, such as agent‑based modelling and AI‑supported behavioural analysis.

Terms of employment

The employment is expected to result in a doctoral degree and the main assignment for the doctoral student is thus to be active in research, study doctoral courses, and possibly participate in teaching courses at undergraduate level (up to 20 %).

The employment is limited to four years at full time or up to five years in case teaching and/or other departmental work is performed. The salary is fixed according to the established salary level for doctoral students at Umeå University.

Application

• A cover letter with a brief description of your qualifications, research interests and motivation for applying, and your contact details (max. 2 pages).
• Certified copies of relevant degree diploma(s).
• A list of university courses with grades (transcripts). Note that for international applicants the grading system should be explained in brief.
• Copy of Master thesis and publications (if any).
• Contact information for at least two references who have either worked closely with the candidate or directly supervised the candidate in an academic or professional setting.

Umeå University wants to offer an equal environment where open dialogue between people with different backgrounds and perspectives lay the foundation for learning, creativity and development. We welcome people with different backgrounds and experiences to apply for the current employment.