Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member of the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), is seeking a dedicated Scientist specializing in Urban Microclimate and Sustainable Cooling in Arid Regions. This role is based in Qatar and contributes to cutting-edge research addressing climate challenges in hot, dry environments.
About the Role
The successful candidate will lead and contribute to advanced research initiatives focused on understanding and mitigating urban heat effects in arid and desert climates. The position involves developing innovative sustainable cooling strategies, conducting field and simulation studies, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to advance knowledge in urban microclimate science.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct high-quality research on urban microclimate phenomena in arid regions and hot desert climates.
- Develop and evaluate sustainable cooling technologies and strategies for urban environments.
- Analyze thermal comfort, heat island effects, and urban air quality using field measurements and computational modeling.
- Design and implement experimental campaigns involving environmental monitoring, remote sensing, and building energy simulation tools.
- Collaborate with national and international research institutions, government agencies, and industry partners on climate resilience and urban sustainability projects.
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences.
- Contribute to grant writing and research proposal development to secure external funding.
- Mentor graduate students and junior researchers within HBKU's research programs.
Required Qualifications
- A PhD in Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Urban Planning, Climate Science, Atmospheric Science, or a closely related discipline.
- Strong research background in urban microclimate, urban heat island (UHI) mitigation, sustainable cooling, or building physics.
- Demonstrated experience with field measurement campaigns, environmental sensors, and data acquisition systems.
- Proficiency in simulation and modeling tools such as ENVI-met, EnergyPlus, ANSYS Fluent, CFD software, or equivalent platforms.
- Experience with GIS, remote sensing data, and statistical analysis software (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB).
- A strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals related to urban climate, thermal comfort, or sustainable building design.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Ability to work both independently and within multidisciplinary research teams.
Preferred Skills and Experience
- Experience working in arid or Middle Eastern climates and understanding region-specific cooling challenges.
- Familiarity with green infrastructure, cool roofs, cool pavements, evaporative cooling, and passive design strategies.
- Knowledge of Qatar National Vision 2030 sustainability goals and regional environmental policies.
- Experience in teaching or academic supervision at the university level.
- Track record of securing research funding or industry partnerships.
Why Join HBKU?
- Be part of a world-class research university in the heart of Qatar, dedicated to advancing science and knowledge.
- Access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities.
- Collaborative, innovation-driven environment within the Qatar Foundation ecosystem.
- Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on sustainable development and climate adaptation in arid regions worldwide.