DC1 - ADVANCED AND SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS 

The curriculum pursues advanced interdisciplinary training in the scientific sectors of chemistry and materials science and technology.  Aimed at the study and development of advanced materials and processes, and the innovative use of traditional materials with low environmental impact, the program also takes a view to the recovery and reuse of secondary raw materials. The curriculum is characterized by the strategic research themes of the Department's groups and is based on collaborations with national and foreign institutions and universities. It aims to combine different and complementary skills, transcending the traditional boundaries between chemistry and materials science and technology, useful for technological transfer on topics of significant industrial interest. Among the research topics are:

• the design and characterization of advanced and sustainable materials;
• the study of the relationships between structure, microstructure and chemical-physical and structural properties of materials relevant in civil and industrial fields;
• the development of process technologies with particular attention to environmental and energy sustainability.

The objectives of the program are to provide in-depth knowledge in the relevant sectors, develop collaboration skills between researchers operating in different disciplines, correctly use specialist expertise in a multidisciplinary context and to correctly manage intellectual property and exploit its industrial development. The University campus, as well as national and international partners, will provide theoretical and experimental tools for training.

DC2 - ENERGY, FLUID MECHANICS & HEAT/MASS TRANSFER

The research topics included in this CD detail components and processes for the production and conversion of mechanical, electrical and thermal energy using conventional and alternative technologies.
Research activities involve an integrated approach implementing theoretical, experimental and computational methodologies to address the challenges of efficiency and environmental impact.
The detailed analysis of the components involved in energy processes (e.g. heat exchangers, fluid machines, combustors, fuel cells) includes the study of thermo-fluid dynamics, energy transport and multi-phase systems, also in interaction with porous media.
This curriculum also focuses on finding integrated solutions to optimize the use of energy resources, while promoting sustainability and quality of life in urban areas. In this context, the topics of "smart cities" and energy communities are addressed, focusing on the creation of sustainable urban environments and the study of energy storage techniques. Particular attention is given to hydrogen-based solutions, recognizing their importance in the transition towards sustainable resource management. Within this curriculum, focus is also paid on the study of the impact of microscale phenomena on the macroscopic characteristics of multiphase flows, once again integrating theoretical, numerical and experimental approaches in synergy with the DROPIT project (Droplet Interaction Technologies, https://www.project.uni- stuttgart.de/dropit/). The training activity of the course is completed by advanced level courses on theoretical and high-fidelity computational methodologies for modelling and design, thermo-fluid dynamic phenomena and processes, measurement and experimental techniques.

DC3 - ELECTRONICS, MECHATRONICS AND E-MOBILITY

The curriculum deals with research topics in the fields of both electrical and electronic engineering pursuing sustainability through advanced methodologies and experimental approaches. In the electronic area, focus is given to the design of microelectronic systems for industrial, medical and scientific applications by developing integrated circuits in nanometric CMOS technologies, which are capable of operating with both analog and mixed signals. Innovative silicon-based sensors for radiation detection are also investigated and developed along with wireless and wearable sensors for medical and environmental monitoring. Modern and energy-efficient mechatronics and mechanical systems are examined and their implementation evaluated.

On transportation electrification and sustainable mobility, the research activity involves all major electric drive components in terms of design, analysis, and control. In particular, design of electric machines and power converters for automotive and aerospace applications based on "fault-tolerant" and "reliability oriented-design" strategies are addressed. Modelling of thermal management methodologies and reliability assessment are examined for enabling more power dense and reliable electric drive. Particular attention is paid on regenerative braking and energy recovery, which are critical aspects for extending the vehicle mileage, as well as on implementation of monitoring condition algorithms and advanced motion control techniques for electric drives.

The training is completed by the support of advanced level courses on microelectronic systems, innovative sensors, transportation electrification and electric drive reliability. Finally, the curriculum delivers methodological and technical knowledge, with the purpose of training professionals capable of undertaking a career, even at an international level, both in the academic and industry.

DC4 - CONSTRUCTION AND PRESERVATION OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

The curriculum develops the concept of sustainable construction, which combines history, environmental and cultural resources, with the application of advanced technologies and innovative practices to design, shape and adapt a built environment that is durable, safe and respectful of the natural environment through an integrated and multidisciplinary approach. The PhD programme focuses on design, conservation, restoration, retrofit of structures and infrastructures, existing buildings and environmental sustainability. It introduces a "Life Cycle Thinking" approach to innovation in construction engineering, conservation, monitoring and retrofit, also considering resilience to exceptional conditions, such as earthquakes or accidental actions induced by climate change, as well as environmental, urban and building sustainability. Among the research topics are:

• innovative solutions for integrated and incremental renovation of buildings;
• advanced structural analysis and modelling techniques;
• advanced techniques for structural health monitoring, for the management of degradation phenomena, scheduled maintenance and emergencies.

Particular attention is paid to the quality of the living space and to the care of the historical-cultural heritage from an architectural point of view. Finding a balance between modern living needs and the need for preservation of the historical value of the built environment requires meticulous planning and execution, which can be achieved by adopting a holistic approach that considers the entire building life cycle, from the construction conceptual design to its possible adaptation or renovation, up to its end of life.