The University of Manchester
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6 days ago
PhD in Geostationary Satellite-Enabled Multi-Source Data Fusion for PM2.5 Hotspot Detection and Population Exposure Management The University of Manchester in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Full funding availableDeadline
Sep 7, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
The University of Manchester
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About this position
PhD opportunity at The University of Manchester in collaboration with Peking University on geostationary satellite-enabled multi-source data fusion for dynamic PM2.5 hotspot detection and predictive population exposure management in megacities.
The project sits at the intersection of environmental science, earth science, public health, geography, and computer science. It will combine geostationary satellite observations, ground-based air quality measurements, traffic activity, meteorological data, satellite-derived trace-gas products, and demographic information to map hourly PM2.5 exposure and identify evolving pollution hotspots.
Research themes include satellite remote sensing, physically informed data fusion, spatiotemporal modelling, air-quality forecasting, and environmental health applications. The student will work on reconstructing incomplete satellite information under cloud cover and other retrieval limitations, then integrating the outputs into high-resolution PM2.5 mapping and predictive exposure models.
Supervision is shared between Dr Zhonghua Zheng at Manchester and Assoc Prof Jing Wei at Peking University. The Manchester side offers expertise in environmental data science and atmospheric environmental modelling, while Peking University contributes expertise in satellite remote sensing and PM2.5 retrieval in complex urban environments.
This is a competition-funded PhD. Fees are waived at both institutions. Manchester-recruited students receive a UKRI-rate stipend (£21,805 for 2026/27) while in Manchester, a flight allowance for travel to Peking, and a research training grant of up to £5000. While based at Peking, students must apply for China Link Scholarship funding; successful applicants are guaranteed accommodation from Peking University.
Eligibility includes a relevant 2:1 honours degree, or a 2:1 plus a relevant master's degree at merit level, plus English language proficiency (typically IELTS 6.5 overall with minimum sub-scores as stated). For the Peking route, applicants need a master's-level certificate at merit/distinction and CSCSE verification by September 2026. UK and international students may apply via Manchester; Chinese nationals should apply via Peking University.
Applicants are advised to contact the supervisors before applying and to submit a formal application through the online portal with the project title, supervisor name, funding plan, study history, and two referees.
Funding details
Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.
How to apply
Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.
More information can be found here
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