Virtual Integration Design and Analysis Environment (VIDAE) for the Automotive Vehicle as a Complex System

£16,000 per annum tax free (rising annually)

Applications are invited for a 3.5 year research studentship in the School of School of Computing at the University of Leeds, leading to the award of a PhD degree upon the successful completion of research.  The studentship is being fully funded by a major European automotive original equipment manufacturer (OEM).  This is part of a larger university consortium EPSRC research programme on simulation innovation for virtual design and prototyping.

The automotive industry is investing in advanced methods for the integration of new digitally enabled functionality into a high interaction multidisciplinary vehicle.  This requires development of an agile modelling and simulation framework and rigorous analysis methods for the design, analysis and specification of the vehicle as a complex system.  A Relational Oriented Technology Trade-off and Analysis framework (ROSETTA) will be implemented through a Virtual Integration Design and Analysis Environment (VIDAE).      

The aim of the PhD will be to complement the VIDAE research through the development of innovative new modelling and analytical methods.  The PhD research will leverage ROSETTA and the VIDAE environment for SoS model integration, design and analysis.

The research student will be a member of the Distributed Systems and Services Group within the School of Computing at the University of Leeds. The student will develop advanced methods in Service-oriented Architecture and Model Based Systems Engineering, working closely with industry. The student will also have the opportunity for on-site collaboration with the industrial partner. Some travel will be required.

Eligibility

Candidates should hold, or expect to receive, a first or upper second class degree in computer science, software engineering or a closely related discipline, and meet the University entrance requirements.  The student must also be willing to sign the confidentiality agreement between the University and industrial partner.

Funding includes a maintenance award of £16,000 per year plus payment of UK/EU fees for students who meet residency and EPSRC rules for eligibility.  Provision has been made for an annual rise in the maintenance fee. Award of fees is only available to students eligible to pay UK/EU fees.

It is anticipated that the PhD course will begin as soon as possible but no later than the October 2013.

Additional Information:

Details about the School of Computing can be found at: http://www.engineering.leeds.ac.uk/computing/

For informal enquiries or to submit your CV for consideration, please contact Professor Jie Xu (Email: J.Xu@leeds.ac.uk )

Application Information:

Applicants should complete the standard PhD application form by the 1^st May 2013. It is available via the ‘Apply’ button below.