Closing Date: 22 November 2013

Start Date: 1st January 2014

Context and Background
An opportunity exists for a Research Engineer to lead a joint research venture between Rogers Leask Group Ltd and Loughborough University as part of the prestigious four-year Engineering Doctorate programme, leading to the award ‘Doctor of Engineering’. 

The practical application of Building Information Modelling (BIM) to design management has proved to be challenging. Too often companies focus on the technical aspects of design in parallel with the use of BIM technologies and neglect the importance of getting the process of management correct for a specific business. This EngD research project provides a unique opportunity to address design information management within the context of the UK government drive to utilise Building Information Modelling widely on public projects by 2016.

Research Aim
The aim of the EngD research project is to improve design information management to cope with new BIM technologies and processes. 

Research Objectives
The main objectives are to:

• Establish current understanding of design information management and identify gaps in knowledge and practices.
• Review existing methods of design information management within the company, using qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques on existing projects and processes.
• Review Information Technology processes to manage design information and associated design techniques.
• Produce a framework to innovate design management to a) ensure efficiency and b) to ensure Rodgers Leask is ‘BIM ready’ and aligned with government and industry initiatives.
• Create a means of logging and accessing design information to help improve business efficiency.

Expected Outcomes
Key anticipated outcomes of the project include:

• New methods of managing design information will be developed and implemented in association with BIM technologies, which will become the standards across the whole business stream.
• The creation of new design information management standards will provide the foundation for innovation and continuous improvement.
• Improvement in efficiency and competency through learning, training, and use of appropriate technologies.
• Publication of the findings will contribute to the knowledge base, providing essential reflection on practical application to a wider audience.

Suitable Candidates
This EngD research project is open to graduates with a relevant degree in the built environment and that are articulate, well qualified and highly motivated. Structural or civil engineering design experience is desirable but not essential. The minimum entry qualification is a 2.1 Honours degree or equivalent. A lower qualification is acceptable only if supplemented with an appropriate postgraduate (MSc/MEng) qualification and relevant industrial experience. 

Funding
The successful applicant will receive a minimum enhanced tax-free stipend of £19,000 p.a. and a generous training allowance. Due to Tier 4 visa restrictions on industry placements, this is only available to UK/EU applicants.

How to Apply
Applications will only be accepted with the relevant supporting documents (see how to apply) and should be made through Loughborough University’s Online Application Portal. 

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL BE REQUIRED TO WORK AT RODGERS LEASK LTD, IN DERBY, WHILST ALSO ATTENDING LOUGHBOROUGH UNIVERSITY AS REQUIRED.

For informal discussions about the research project please contact Mr Wayne Lord at w.e.lord@lboro.ac.uk