PhD in multiscale simulation of migration patterns in response to environmental stressors

We are offering a self-funded PhD position with our Department of Computer Science at Brunel University of London to investigate how extreme environmental events, such as droughts or hurricanes, impact migration patterns and population distribution using multiscale simulation techniques.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

If you have any questions about the project or would like to arrange an informal discussion, please reach out to Dr. Derek Groen at derek.groen@brunel.ac.uk.

Research Area

This project focuses on the intersection of climate science, economics, and social factors to predict migration flows and assess policy responses. You will develop models that integrate these factors to provide comprehensive insights into migration patterns.

Project description

Extreme environmental events, such as droughts, hurricanes, and floods, can significantly alter migration patterns and population distribution. These events often force people to leave their homes for safer and more stable living conditions.

Understanding these migration patterns is crucial for developing effective policies and strategies to mitigate their impacts.

This PhD project will leverage existing models and multiscale simulation techniques to study how these environmental stressors influence migration. The student will develop and refine models that integrate climate data, economic factors, and social variables to predict migration flows. By simulating various scenarios, the research aims to provide insights into how different factors interact and influence migration decisions.

This project will also assess the effectiveness of policy responses in managing migration induced by environmental changes. The findings will contribute to a better understanding of the complex dynamics of migration and help policymakers design more effective interventions.

Key focus areas

As a PhD candidate, your potential focus areas include:

• Developing multiscale simulation models to study migration patterns
• Integrating climate, economic, and social data into predictive models
• Assessing the impact of environmental stressors on population distribution
• Evaluating policy responses to migration induced by environmental changes

Research approach

This project employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining advanced simulation techniques with climate science, economics, and social sciences to enhance our understanding of migration patterns. You will:

• Explore multiscale simulation techniques to study migration
• Collaborate with experts in climate science, economics, and social sciences
• Develop comprehensive models to predict migration flows

Who we're looking for

Are you a motivated and passionate individual with an interest in climate science, modelling and simulation? We are looking for someone like you to join our research team.

Your passion for exploring and advancing this field will be essential, as will your innovative thinking to develop creative solutions to complex problems. Strong interpersonal skills will enable you to collaborate effectively with a diverse team of researchers.

While previous experience in conducting research, especially in simulation techniques or migration studies, is highly valued, it is not a strict requirement.

Brunel offers a number of funding options to research students that help cover the cost of their tuition fees, contribute to living expenses or both. See more information here: https://www.brunel.ac.uk/research/Research-degrees/Research-degree-funding. The UK Government is also offering Doctoral Student Loans for eligible students, and there is some funding available through the Research Councils. Many of our international students benefit from funding provided by their governments or employers. Brunel alumni enjoy tuition fee discounts of 15%.