Smart Earthen Buildings: IoT- and AI-Based Monitoring to Improve Energy Efficiency and Reduce Operational Costs

This PhD project focuses on the development of a smart monitoring framework for earthen buildings, integrating IoT sensors, wireless communication, and artificial intelligence to improve energy efficiency, durability, and structural safety.

The research aims to monitor in real time the hygrothermal and mechanical behavior of earthen materials, which are highly sensitive to moisture variations, temperature changes, and environmental loading. By combining experimental investigations, in-situ monitoring, and data-driven modeling, the project seeks to anticipate degradation mechanisms, optimize building performance, and extend the service life of both new sustainable earthen constructions and heritage structures.

The project is positioned at the intersection of geotechnical engineering, materials science, building physics, and digital technologies, contributing to smart and low-carbon construction practices.

Research Environment

Candidates are expected to carry out their research full-time within the structures of the Euromed University of Fes.

PhD Student’s Responsibilities

The PhD candidate will be expected to:

• Conduct an in-depth state-of-the-art review on earthen construction, hygrothermal behavior, IoT monitoring, and AI-based prediction methods.
• Design and deploy IoT sensor systems adapted to earthen materials (moisture, temperature, strain, deformation, suction, etc.).
• Develop and test a wireless, low-energy data acquisition architecture.
• Perform laboratory-scale experiments and in-situ monitoring campaigns.
• Process and analyze large datasets using machine learning and deep learning techniques.
• Develop predictive models for degradation, cracking, and hygrothermal evolution.
• Contribute to the creation of a digital twin integrating real-time monitoring and numerical simulation.
• Publish results in peer-reviewed scientific journals and present findings at conferences.
• Participate actively in research meetings, reporting, and dissemination activities.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate should have:

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Building Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Strong interest in sustainable construction, earthen materials, and smart buildings.
• Solid background in mechanics of materials, soil mechanics, or building physics.
• Basic knowledge (or strong motivation to learn) in:
  • Sensors and instrumentation
  • IoT systems or embedded devices
  • Data analysis, machine learning, or numerical modeling
• Good programming skills (Python, MATLAB, or similar) are an asset.
• Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong analytical thinking, scientific writing skills, and motivation for research.
• Proficiency in English (written and spoken).

The application file must include the following documents:

• CV with photo
• Cover letter
• Copy of diplomas
• Copy of academic transcripts
• Copy of CIN/Passport

Submission of the Application File

The application file must be sent to the Doctoral Studies Center (CEDoc) of the Euro-Mediterranean University of Fes by email no later than February 14, 2026, to the following email address:

Euromed-CEDoc@ueuromed.org

For More Information

Administrative Affairs Officer of the CEDoc:
Ms. Boutaina Jai Mansouri – b.jai-mansouri@emadu.ueuromed.org

Director of Research and of the CEDoc:
Prof. Abdelghafour Marfak – a.marfak@euromed.org

Thesis Supervisor

Prof. Mariame Bouchaqour – m.bouchaqour@ueuromed.org