Student Assistant​/Master Thesis - GIS- -Resolution Urban Mapping

While urbanized mesoscale models or offline urban canopy models provide computationally efficient estimates of urban climate, they often lack the spatial granularity needed for site-specific urban design. We aim to bridge this gap by using QGIS/UMEP tools to downscale low-resolution simulation outputs into 2D and 3D maps of environmental variables. We are looking for a motivated student to develop a workflow that links physics-based climate models with GIS-driven biometeorological mapping.

• Run urban climate simulations using the mesoscale Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model and/or the Standalone Urban Energy/Climate Model (SUECM) for test sites Berlin, Barcelona, and Montreal.
• Utilize UMEP plugins in QGIS or Python-Implementations to generate high-resolution maps of Mean Radiant Temperature (MRT) and solar potential.
• Develop standardized data exchange protocols between simulation outputs and GIS-ready spatial formats.
• Integrate WRF/SUECM data with the UMEP plugins to assess pedestrian thermal comfort in complex urban geometries.
• Conduct sensitivity analyses on how urban geometry affects thermal comfort.

• Enrollment in Geoinformatics, Urban Planning, Environmental Engineering, Meteorology, Building Physics or similar disciplines.
• Proficiency in QGIS and the UMEP toolset (or a strong willingness to learn).
• Experience with Python, particularly for processing geospatial and raster data (or a strong willingness to learn).
• Understanding of urban biometeorology (PET/UTCI) and energy balance principles.
• Ability to work independently on complex data integration tasks.

• A research-focused role (6-12 months, or longer) contributing to an international project.
• Hands-on experience with cutting-edge GIS tools for urban climate resilience.
• Supervision from experts in urban physics, meteorology and geoinformatics.
• Access to a collaborative platform linking Fraunhofer IBP in Germany and Concordia University in Canada.

Remuneration according to Research assistant pay (dependent on qualifications).

The weekly working time is at least 5 hours. This position is limited, an extension possible.

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities.

Remuneration according to the general works agreement for employing assistant staff.

Dr. Afshin Afshari

Phone:

Fraunhofer Institute for Building Physics IBP