Real-time control of nature-based solutions for multi-benefit water management

Overview

Nature-based solutions (NBS) such as wetlands, green roofs, and bioswales, are critical for sustainable urban water management. However, their benefits (flood mitigation, water quality improvement, biodiversity support) are often siloed or under-optimised.

This PhD project will pioneer adaptive, real-time control strategies for NBS to maximise their environmental, social, and economic co-benefits. The research integrates sensor data, predictive modeling, and smart control systems to dynamically adjust NBS operations in response to weather, pollution events, and community needs.

This project merges cutting-edge technology with environmental stewardship, offering a chance to redefine how cities interact with nature. With access to live NBS sites and partnerships with industry leaders, you'll deliver tools for greener, smarter urban futures.

Research activities

As part of this project, you'll:

• develop models linking NBS performance to real-time inputs (rainfall, water quality, ecological indicators)
• design control algorithms to balance competing priorities (e.g., flood prevention vs. habitat protection)
• test strategies in case studies (existing NBS sites) and simulate city-wide scalability.

Outcomes

This project aims to develop:

• a framework for adaptive, multi-benefit NBS management
• validated control strategies to enhance resilience and cost-effectiveness
• guidelines for retrofitting existing NBS and scaling to urban networks.

Skills and experience

You should have:

• experience in programming, hydrology or ecology modelling
• an interest in control systems, IoT, and stakeholder engagement.

Scholarships

You may be eligible to apply for a research scholarship.

Explore our research scholarships

Keywords

• nature-based solutions
• real-time control
• stormwater
• pollution
• flooding

Contact

Contact the supervisor for more information.