Doctoral Degree in Electronic Engineering (DEEL): 2012-13


Branch of knowledge Engineering and Architecture
Organising Body(ies)
Interdisciplinary?

Interuniversity Doctorate

 

Programme management board
Quality certificate MEE2011-0690 BOE-253 - 20/10/2011 - 16518
BOE publication date
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  • Mateu Orfila i Rotger building
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Public prices for the academic year 2012-13

Regulated prices by " BOIB, Official Gazette, Núm.101 - 14/07/2012 - Decreto 54/2012 " ( PDF format [es] , PDF format [ca] )

Programme description

The UPC-UIB PhD in Electrical Engineering is the continuation of the UPC-UIB-URV interuniversity programme, which gained the quality hallmark from the Spanish Ministry of Education over the 2004-07 period. This doctoral programme currently forms part of the official postgraduate programme in experimental and technological sciences at the UIB.

From a teaching point of view, the PhD programme comprises a group of subjects aimed at training students in research, bringing together the experience gained in the previous programme and forming part of the Interuniversity Masters in Electrical Engineering . This masters course was first offered in the academic year 2006-07 at the UPC and is being offered for the first time at the UIB. The PhD programme that has become the masters course was also offered at the UIB in the academic year 2006-07.

The PhD programme is organised in four thematic fields, which are:

  • Power electronics
  • Devices and microsystems
  • Circuits and integrated systems
  • Instrumentation and measurements

Justification of the need for the programme

The motives justifying the need for this programme can be summarised in the following points:

  1. The essential and transferable nature of knowledge of electrical engineering in many strategic socio-economic sectors

    Given the transferable nature of electrical engineering, scientific and technological knowledge in the discipline, both in the theoretical and practical dimensions, are key in many sectors, such as areas of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), industrial automation, electromedicine, renewable energies and the aerospace industry. Many of the businesses involved with these sectors use cutting-edge technology and feature a rapid innovation dynamic in a highly competitive market, and this dynamic can only be arrived at through the inclusion of a strong research ethos, and thus the need to train researchers is justified. On the other hand, these sectors are vital in the information society and contribute decisively to the sustainability of resources, something that confers on them a high growth potential, something that forms part of the strategic objectives of various governmental agencies (EU, Spain, USA). It is then reasonable to foresee the need for highly qualified researchers who work in these sectors and contribute to scientific, technological, social and economic progress with knowledge of electrical engineering and its practical application.

  2. Course and structure that can be validated across Europe

    The course structure follows the European Higher Education Area, shared by many European universities, and improves the mobility of students and researchers in the EU and thus making the course attractive for students from around the world. The programme thus enables the import and students and export of researchers within the EU.

  3. The importance of the proposed specialities and their international academic referents

    The interest and opportunity of the proposed specialisations is justified both by their content and the academic offer of similar options at postgraduate level by other European universities, as detailed below:

    Specialisation in power electronics :

    Power converters are present in all power supplies and any electrical equipment, in any field of application (industrial, communications, aeronautics, automotive industry, electric traction, etc.) Recently, the importance of this field has grown due to the energy crisis and has moved toward increased efficiency of all manner of systems, in particular renewable energy, transport and the use of electricity. Power electronics is also highly important in the aeronautic and aerospace industries, which are considered strategically key in Europe. The training of researchers to a high level in this field is thus vital.

    As European academic referents, we can cite the following :

    • Master in Power Electronics & Drives, Universitat d‘Aalborg (Finlàndia)
    • Master in Power Electronics & Drives, Universitat de Notthingham (Anglaterra)

    Specialisation in devices and microsystems :

    Semiconductor devices (SC) and micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) are increasingly important in modern society. The former can be found in microchips, and the latter in intelligent sensors, integrating sensors and/or micro-mechanised actuators into processing and control circuits. They can also be found in ICT applications (optical and high-frequency devices, RF filters and MEMS optical transmission subsystems) and industrial applications (SC power devices and MEMS SC sensors). The fields of application are diverse and cover everything from biomedical instrumentation to the aerospace sector, including the field of renewable energy (photovoltaic cells). Production technology for these devices is constantly evolving. At present nanotechnology is gradually taking the place of microtechnology. This rapid evolution is complemented by the discovery of new materials and compounds such as organic SCs, which together with new production technology are increasing the range of applications and their impact on our society.

    As European academic referents, we can cite the following:

    • Msc in Micro & Nanotechnology, Institute of Microtechnology, Universitat de Neuchâtel (Suïssa)
    • Msc of Microsystems Engineering, Vestfold University College (Noruega)

    Specialisation in circuits and integrated systems :

    Integrated systems and circuits, embedded, intelligent and adaptable systems are being progressively implemented in all fields of everyday life. Mobile voice and data communication systems, systems that capture and present information, systems enabling sensory perception in those with sensory deficiencies, etc. This ‘ambient intelligence’ requires technological solutions at the level of circuits, subsystems, architecture, integration, robustness and computing paradigms. Moore’s law, which predicts exponential growth of silicon technologies, has been fulfilled over the past forty years, and will probably be valid for a few more years. It is possible that in the future it will give way to alternatives, such as the many new nanotechnologies. It is, then, clear that this attractive area in constant evolution poses important challenges and opportunities for research, innovation and business.

    As European academic referents, we can cite the following:

    • Master Program in System-On-Xip Design, School on Information & Communication Techynology, KTH, Suècia
    • Master Program on Electronics & Microelectronics, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Suïssa
    • Master Program, Department of Information Technology & Electrical Engineering, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH), Suïssa
    • Master of Science in System-Level Integration, Institute for System Level Integration, Universitat d'Edimburg (Regne Unit)

    Specialisation in instrumentation and measurements :

    Electrical instrumentation is a discipline with impacts in many areas. However, there are scientific societies specialised in measurement methods and the design of equipment, such as the Instrumentation and Measurement Society of the IEEE, which organises two international conferences a year where roughly 2000 research works are presented in a range of fields related to the science and technology of measurements, and it also publishes a journal in the area. Other organisations such as the Institute of Physics and the American Institute of Physics also have prestigious publications dedicated to instrumentation.

    As European academic referents, we can cite the following:

    • Master of Measurement & Control Engineering, Universitat de Twenthe
    • Master's Degree in Physics & Applications Spécialité: Sensors, Measurement & Instrumentation, Universitat Pierre i Marie Curie (UPMC-França)
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  4. Other strong points

    As wells as the aforementioned, we can cite the following strong points of this proposal:

    • Candidates can come from a wide range of previous studies.
    • The different specialisations proposed allow a synergy between complementary knowledge, improving research in a multidisciplinary field that is electrical engineering.
    • The articulation of the programme around the research activity of competitive and internationally recognised research groups constitutes a guarantee of quality and constant updating of knowledge.

Admission criteria

This PhD is aimed at all those interested in learning more about the field of electrical engineering and who fulfil the specific and general entry requirements.

Students can come from a range of previous studies, although the ideal profile is an engineering (or 180 ECTS credits of technical engineering) related to the field of electrical engineering. Those with a degree in the sciences with reasonably advanced knowledge of electrical engineering will also be accepted. Depending on previous studies, the course can be begun in either semester. In the case of foreign students, applications are welcomed from those with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, computer science or applied physics.

Access to the specialisation semester will be possible for those students who will move on to PhD studies and require complementary training.

The committee will assess applications and recommend that most appropriate pathway for each student according to his/her knowledge and skills. The committee can call the candidate to interview if necessary once their report has been passed to the departmental board.

Candidates should present an application by post, email or in person to the Centre of Postgraduate Studies . If candidates have not studied their degree at the UIB, they should present an official and stamped copy of their degree certificate accompanied by a letter from the awarding university.

The committee will analyse applications, including cases of credit validation and recognition. Merits presented by applicants will be assessed, and proposals on whether to offer a place may be taken up at departmental level. This proposal will be accompanied by the CV of those students whose degree is not in the ideal areas to begin the Master's Degree in Electronical Engineering .

The academic coordination body will name tutors annually and assign each with no more than students.

Teaching staff who have held the degree of PhD for at least two years and wish to supervise dissertation should communicate the title of the area to the course committee. The course committee will publish the list of areas offered and during the first semester students should communicate their choice to their tutor. In the case of students who need to study for two years due to their holding a 180 ECTS credit degree, they should choose their area at the start of the second academic year.

If the number of fields offered is lower than the number of students enrolled for a dissertation, the course committee will establish with the qualified teaching staff the areas necessary to fulfil demand.

Thesis evaluation criteria

Dissertation - PhD project (DEA)

  • During the final semester of the programme, students should complete a dissertation or research project for their PhD, either with the supervision of a course lecturer or a local or foreign business or research institution. The dissertation will be completed with the submission of a report on the project, its defence, and assessment by a panel.

Overall Objectives

General aims

This interuniversity PhD aims to train research personnel in the areas off specialisation linked to the design and trial of electrical circuits and systems, power electronics, devices and microsystems and electronic instrumentation.

The main objective of the programme comprises the training of national and international specialists able to work in their area at an international level, able to develop new products and services in the areas of the programme, that is, power electronics, devices and microsystems, integrated systems and circuits and instrumentation and measurements.

The skills gained can be summarised in two areas, namely specific skills and general skills. Specific:

  • Ability to identify, formulate and resolve optimally problems in the fields of electrical technology and electrical engineering.
  • Ability to adapt to the rapid evolution of electrical technologies and the ICT market.
  • Ability to elaborate and transmit technical documentation.
  • Ability to carry out and direct projects.
  • Ability to understand engineering as an economic and industrial activity, without forgetting the social, ethical and sustainable aspects.
  • Ability to analyse critically and value various alternatives.
  • Creative and innovative ability to create products and services.
  • Ability to lead and work in multidisciplinary teams.
  • Ability to learn continuously: ability to carry on studying independently and continuously.

General skills:

  • Analyse and value various alternatives.
  • Analyse critically.
  • Find optimal solutions to complex problems and projects.
  • Create and innovate products and services.
  • Adapt to the rapid evolution of electrical technologies and ICT markets.
  • Write projects and technical documents.
  • Orally present results, products and services clearly and fluently both to specialised and lay audiences.
  • Generate documents and present them with the help of appropriate software and IT tools.
  • Write and speak fluently in a third language.
  • Work in multidisciplinary teams and show leadership.
  • Learn throughout life.
  • Manage resources and projects.
  • Act with professional ethics and analyse the social dimension of activity.
  • Encourage internationalisation and mobility.

Professional opportunities

Students of the course will be experts in the field of electrical engineering and will be able to work in research departments of public and private organisations.

Particular objectives for each subject

These are specified on the descriptor of each subject and can be accessed through the web pages.

Programme structure

This PhD comprises 120 ECTS credits over four semesters (each one with 30 credits): the foundation semester, the core semester, the specialisation semester and the project semester. The first two semesters are obligatory in terms of the access level, whilst the specialisation semester plans research specialism in four areas: power electronics, devices and microsystems, integrated systems and circuits, and instrumentation and measurements . Futher information in the section " Subjects " in the  Master's Degree in Electronic Engineering .

Foundation semester

  • The aim of this semester is to provide base knowledge for students from a range of backgrounds and prepare them for the following semester, when fundamental concepts are introduced. Students who have already partially or totally reached the level of knowledge of these subjects through previous study will gain recognition and possible exemption for that previous knowledge.

Core semester

  • In this semester advanced knowledge (postgraduate level) of electrical engineering is introduced. It comprises six subjects that cover the majority of central themes in electrical engineering.

Specialisation semester

  • Students, with the agreement of their tutor, should choose four subjects (20 ECTS credits).

Dissertation - PhD project (DEA)

  • During the final semester of the programme, students should complete a dissertation or research project for their PhD, either with the supervision of a course lecturer or a local or foreign business or research institution. The dissertation will be completed with the submission of a report on the project, its defence, and assessment by a panel.

The rest of the credits can be gained through any of the research specialisms or optional modules from related studies, always with the prior agreement of a tutor.

It should be noted that this is the specialisation semester offered at the UIB. The core semesters corresponding to research guidance are given at the UPC in line with the four areas of specialisms. The subjects to be taken for each area are as following. If students so wish they may study the subjects offered only at the UPC.

Power electronics

  • Energy Management for Information and Communication Systems
  • AC Energy Converters: Design, Control through DSP and Applications
  • Electromagnetic Compatibility in Power and Control Systems
  • Power Control in Renewable Energy Systems
  • Energy Conversion and Motion
  • Simulation Model and Control of Electronic Power Systems
  • Power Quality in the Electricity Network

Devices and microsystems

  • Microsystems (MEMS) and Nanosystems (NEMS)
  • Micro and Nanosensors and Actuators
  • Micro and Nanotechnologies
  • Semiconductor Power Devices
  • Advanced Concepts of Semiconductors
  • Solar Cells: Devices and Technologies
  • Photovoltaic Systems
  • Optoelectronic and High Frequency Devices

Circuits and integrated systems

  • VLSI Analogue Design
  • Advanced Digital Systems
  • High Level Digital Design
  • Electronic Systems for Handling Information. Microprocessors and DSP
  • Advanced Analogue Design
  • Circuits for Communications
  • RF Communication Systems On-Chip
  • Circuits for On-Chip Power Management
  • Test and Tolerance of Faults
  • Advanced EDA Tools and Methods for ICs
  • Physical Implementation of Nanometric Integrated Systems
  • Intelligent Systems

Instrumentation and Measurements

  • Advanced Theory and Technology of Measurement Systems
  • Circuits for the Optical and Electrical Definition of Materials
  • Ultrasonic Systems. Instrumentation and Applications
  • Interference in Instrumentation Systems. Measurements, Simulation and Reduction
  • Oceanographic and Aerospace Instrumentation Systems
  • Automotive Electronics
  • Electromagnetic Compatibility
  • Sensors, Actuators and Microprocessors. Application to Robotics
  • Bioengineering

Research lines

As well as the lines of research of the course itself, there are also the lines of research of the research groups linked to the teaching of the course, which can be summarised as follows:

At the UIB

  • Microelectronic design
  • Advanced test techniques for microelectronic circuits
  • Consumption models for devices and integrated circuits
  • Instrumentation and control
  • Industrial robotics
  • Systems engineering
  • Industrial communications

At the UPC

  • AHA - Advanced hardware architectures
  • EPIC - Design of integrated analogue circuits and commuted power converters
  • GREP - Power electronics research group
  • GRUP ISI - Instrumentation, sensors and interface group
  • GSS - Sensor systems group
  • HIPICS - High performance integrated circuits and systems group
  • IEB - Biomedical and electronic instrumentation
  • MCIA - Motion control and industrial applications group
  • MNT- Micro and Nanotechnologies Group
  • QINE - Low Power Design, Testing, Verification and Fault Tolerance
  • SARTI - Remote acquisition and handling systems for information
  • SEPIC - Electronic power and control systems.
  • TIEG - Terrassa Industrial Electronics Group

Thesis Advisory

Since the course is interuniversity, supervisory staff are at both institutions.

At the UIB

  • Alorda Ladaria, Bartomeu
  • Bota Ferragut, Sebastià
  • Calvo Ibáñez, Oscar
  • Crespi Cladera, Rafel
  • García Moreno, Eugeni
  • González Cid, Yolanda
  • Isern Riutort, Eugeni
  • Oliver Codina, Gabriel
  • Ortiz Rodríguez, Alberto
  • Roca Adrover, Miquel
  • Rosselló Sanz, Pep Lluis
  • Segura Fuster, Jaume

At the UPC

  • Alarcon Cot, Eduard
  • Alcubilla Gonzalez, Ramon
  • Altet Sanahujes, Josep
  • Aragones Cervera, Xavier
  • Arias Pujol, Antoni
  • Balado Suarez, Luz M.
  • Balcells Sendra, Josep
  • Bermejo Sanchez, Sergio
  • Biel Sole, Domingo
  • Bordonau Farrerons, Josep
  • Bragos Bardia, Ramon
  • Cabestany Moncusi, Joan
  • Calderer Cardona, Josep
  • Carrasco Lopez, Juan Antonio
  • Casas Piedrafita, Jaime Oscar
  • Castañer Muñoz, Luis
  • Castilla Fernandez, Miquel
  • Chavez Dominguez, Juan Antonio
  • Cosp Vilella, Jordi
  • Dominguez Pumar, Manuel M.
  • Fernandez Chimeno, Mireya
  • Figueras Pamies, Joan
  • Gago Barrio, Javier
  • Garcia De Vicuña Muñoz De La Nava, Jose Luis
  • Garcia Gonzalez, Miquel A.
  • Garcia Hernandez, Miguel J.
  • Garcias Salva, Pau
  • Gasulla Forner, Manel
  • Gonzalez Diez, David
  • Gonzalez Jimenez, Jose Luis
  • Guinjoan Gispert, Francesc
  • Jimenez Serres, Vicente
  • Lopez Garcia, Mariano
  • Lopez Gonzalez, Juan Miguel
  • Lupon Roses, Emili
  • Madrenas Boadas, Jordi
  • Manich Bou, Salvador
  • Manuel Lazaro, Antonio
  • Masana Nadal, Francesc
  • Mateo Peña, Diego
  • Moll Echeto, Francesc
  • Moreno Arostegui, Juan Manuel
  • Moreno Eguilaz, Juan M.
  • Ortega Redondo, Juan Antonio
  • Ortega Villasclaras, Pablo Rafael
  • Pallas Areny, Ramon
  • Parisi Baradad, Vicenç
  • Pindado Rico, Rafael
  • Pique Lopez, Robert
  • Pons Nin, Joan
  • Pou Felix, Josep
  • Poveda Lopez, Alberto
  • Prat Viñas, Lluis
  • Puigdollers Gonzalez, Joaquim
  • Ramos Castro, Juan Jose
  • Riu Costa, Pere Joan
  • Rius Vazquez, Josep
  • Rodriguez Martinez, Angel
  • Rodriguez Montañes, Rosa
  • Romeral Martinez, J.L.
  • Rosell Ferrer, Javier
  • Rubio Sola, Jose Antonio
  • Salazar Soler, Jorge
  • Silva Martinez, Ferran
  • Silvestre Berges, Santiago
  • Torrents Dolz, Josep M.
  • Turo Peroy, Antonio
  • Vidal Lopez, Eva
  • Voz Sanchez, Cristobal

Administrative Procedures and further information

 

Course coordinator:

 Dr. Jaume Segura Fuster

Telephone  971 17 2530
Department  Department of Physics
E-mail  jaume.segura arroba uib.es

Complaints, comments and suggestions

Comments and suggestions

  • http://postgrau.uib.es/digitalAssets/196/196338_queixes_suggeriments_en.doc

 

Quality assurance system

Nominal composition of the Comissió de Garantia de Qualitat (CGQ)

Responsable de qualitat  Julián Proenza Arenas
PDI  Josep Lluis Rosselló Sanz
PDI  Bartomeu Alorda Ladaira
PDI  Jaume Verd Martorell
PAS  Margalida Prohens López
Alumne  Xavier Gili Pérez

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