Course content

The course is organized for PhD students with the Process and power research group, and targets advanced topics within the specialized research themes of the group. The course content is tailored for each individual student, to enable in-depth study in a particular research area. A detailed list of learning material will be prepared by the relevant course lecturer, with input from the PhD candidate and course coordinator. Typically, this will include selected (parts of) books, papers and other material relevant for doctoral studies in one or more of the following areas: process systems engineering, energy and power systems, hydropower, heat pumps, refrigeration, and turbomachinery.

Learning outcome

Knowledge: At the end of the course, the student should be able to demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of the studied topics in one or more of the particular topics listed under "Course content".

Skills: At the end of the course, the student should be able to:

• Explain the theoretical/conceptual background of the studied topics, with reference to seminal papers and important previous findings;
• Clearly and accurately contextualise their PhD project within the wider research field and with reference to the current state-of-the-art;
• Provide a clear and concise formulation of a studied problem or research question;
• Demonstrate the ability to select and apply relevant methods for solving specified problems, justifying their choices as appropriate;
• Critically analyze previous research findings.

General competence: By participation and completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• Write an introduction section for a journal paper or thesis, describing the current state-of-the-art, and formulating relevant research question(s);
• Write the methods section of a journal paper or thesis, describing and justifying the development, selection and/or application of appropriate advanced experimental, numerical, or theoretical methods to answer the stated research question(s);
• Discuss and describe the current state-of-the-art in a particular research area, and be able to make well-reasoned arguments and/or assumptions for the selection of particular research choices.

Learning methods and activities

The learning is generally organized as guided self-study, but candidates in some cases may be expected to attend lectures, colloquia and/or seminars for discussion of relevant topics.

The course is run up to twice per year, depending on the number of registered students. Each student will be assigned to the most relevant lecturer registered on the course.

Recommended previous knowledge

MSc or equivalent in the relevant subject area

Required previous knowledge

Master of science in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Energy Engineering, Process Engineering, or other relevant engineering or other Master degree relevant for the actual PhD study.

PhD students must be part of the Process and Power Research Group, please contact course coordinator to discuss eligibility if you are unsure.

Course materials

A detailed list of course materials will be agreed at the start of the semester.