University of Bologna

Overview

The PhD in Automotive Engineering for Intelligent Mobility at the University of Bologna emphasizes cutting-edge research and high-level engineering in key areas such as vehicle electrification, powertrains, energy management, and sustainable mobility technologies. This program is designed to equip candidates for academic careers and research and development roles within the automotive and mobility sectors.

What you'll study

The curriculum integrates research training with advanced coursework, fostering both technical expertise and doctoral research capabilities.

Core learning areas

• Electrification and Power Electronics — Covering fundamentals and advanced topics in power conversion, drive electronics, and system integration.
• Electric, Hybrid, and ICE-based Powertrains — Focusing on architectures, control strategies, performance analysis, and comparative system design.
• Advanced Combustion and Aftertreatment Systems — Exploring combustion technologies, emissions reduction, and aftertreatment modeling and optimization.
• Batteries and Energy Storage Systems — Delving into electrochemistry fundamentals, battery modeling, safety protocols, and energy storage integration.
• Vehicle Energy Management and Energy Optimization — Investigating energy flows, supervisory control, efficiency optimization, and intelligent energy strategies.

Doctoral research component

• PhD research project / thesis: Candidates will engage in a doctoral research project aligned with the program’s themes, culminating in a thesis or dissertation, with specific requirements as per the University of Bologna’s doctoral regulations.
• Seminars, workshops, and scientific activities: Involvement in program seminars and research group activities to enhance academic development and research dissemination.

Entry requirements

Applicants are required to possess a relevant second-cycle (Master’s level) degree or an equivalent single-cycle degree. Graduates from the University of Bologna or other Italian and foreign universities are eligible, provided their degree aligns with the program's focus. Candidates currently enrolled in a second-cycle or single-cycle degree program may also be considered if they complete their studies prior to the PhD commencement.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Automotive Engineering for Intelligent Mobility will be well-prepared for a range of careers in academia, research institutions, and industry sectors focused on automotive engineering and intelligent mobility solutions. Opportunities may include roles in research and development, policy-making, and consulting within organizations that prioritize sustainable and innovative mobility technologies.