Developing AI-based integrated chassis control for next-generation vehicles

In collaboration with AVL, one of the world's leading mobility technology companies, we are offering an exciting PhD studentship at the forefront of vehicle control research.

Start date

1 July 2025

Duration

3.5 years

Application deadline

24 March 2025

Funding source

AVL

Funding information

Stipend of £20,006 p.a., rising by 4% annually; UK fees covered; funding available for 3.5 years (42 months)

Supervised by

Prof Patrick Gruber

Professor in Advanced Vehicle Systems Engineering

Dr Davide Tavernini

Senior Lecturer in Advanced Vehicle Engineering

Dr Umberto Montanaro

Senior Lecturer in Autonomous Systems and Control Engineering

About

Modern vehicles are becoming increasingly sophisticated, integrating numerous controllers and actuators to enhance comfort, handling, and overall performance. However, coordinating these systems effectively presents significant engineering challenges, requiring advanced control strategies that balance competing objectives while maintaining real-time operation and robustness.

The aim of this PhD project is to address these challenges by developing innovative integrated chassis controllers and processes that seamlessly coordinate multiple actuators from the outset. The research will explore advanced AI technologies to enhance vehicle performance and safety, including the creation of generalised machine learning training processes. Additionally, AI-driven adaptation strategies will be investigated to enable continuous updates to the controllers, ensuring robust operation under varying driving conditions and mitigating component degradation.

A key focus of this research will be the implementation and testing of the developed controllers on test vehicles at AVL, ensuring they meet stringent computational and safety requirements. Experimental validation will take place at AVL’s research facilities, in collaboration with their automotive control experts.

This PhD project is one of two funded studentships by AVL. It provides a unique opportunity to work closely with AVL, gaining hands-on experience in real-world automotive development.

We are seeking enthusiastic, self-motivated individuals with strong mathematical and computational skills and a passion for experimental research. The studentships run for three and a half years, fully covering UK tuition fees and providing a stipend for living expenses. Experience in vehicle dynamics, control system design, optimisation techniques, and programming (MATLAB or Python) is highly desirable.

Eligibility criteria

Open to candidates who pay UK/home rate fees. See UKCISA for further information.

How to apply

Applications should be submitted via the Automotive Engineering PhD programme page. In place of a research proposal you should upload a document stating the title of the project that you wish to apply for and the name of the relevant supervisor.