The PhD program in Industrial and Information Engineering of University of Perugia offers a number of training modules for the students. These PhD modules are offered locally or can be provided by other Universities (see table below). For the definition of the training plan, please refer to article 14 of the Doctoral Regulation applied from the XLI cycle.
For the delivery period of each module, we recommend contacting the teacher.
PhD Modules for Academic Year 2026/2027 offered by the Department of Engineering of University of Perugia
| N. | Title | Teachers | Period | Hours | CFU |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Electronic noise: theory and practice Electronic noise theory is an important topic in sensors and telecommunication systems. Noise measurements are often tricky and require application specific set-up and techniques. In the first part of the course, starting from physical principles, we will review the fundamentals of electronic noise with a particular focus to microwave noise. In parallel, important system parameters will be recalled such as the equivalent noise temperature, the noise figure, the minimum noise figure and the optimum impedance for noise. The second part of the course will be devoted to noise measurements and, as a case of study, we will consider a radio receiver. Finally, in the third part, we will explore the application of microwave noise measurements to radioastronomy and the potential of these technologies for the realization of a new class of sensors: when a radio-telescope looks at the universe it simply measure the faint microwave noise produced by the stars. |
Federico Alimenti | July 12–14, 2027 8:30 - 14:30 |
18 | 3 |
| 2 |
Measurement by Images and waves Measurement by image processing are today largely used in science and technology in order to obtain 2D and 3D models of objects. In this course the fundamental technology to obtain good analogic images and correct digitalization of it in order to have significative images will be illustrated, together with the main data processing techniques to get single measurements and 3D surfaces. |
Gianluca Rossi | 18 | 3 | |
| 3 |
Data mining and signal processing techniques for machine performance monitoring and early fault diagnosis
Modern machines are now equipped with sophisticated System Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems capable of recording information about actual operation. The resulting database contains a complete knowledge of the machine's operation and performance, but is often under-utilised in normal industrial practice. The main objective of the module is to explore the real potential of new data mining methods and signal processing approaches for performance monitoring and fault detection, with a specific focus on rotating machinery. The topic is at the intersection of mechanical, industrial and information engineering and will be explored in the module through the analysis of real test cases using machine learning algorithms.
PROGRAM:
|
Francesco Castellani | 18 | 3 | |
| 4 |
Model-Based Optimization and Advanced Deep Learning Techniques
The growing complexity of modern control systems and autonomous technologies demands advanced techniques that integrate control theory with machine learning. This course covers two interconnected modules: Model-Based Optimization Techniques for Control and Advanced Deep Learning and Reinforcement Learning Paradigms.
The first module will focus on model-based optimization methods widely used in control systems. Methodologies such as Calculus of variations for optimal control, Linear Quadratic Controller (LQR) and Dynamic Programming (DP) will be explored. Theoretical foundations will be paired with practical examples to ensure a clear understanding of how these techniques can be applied to real-world control problems. The second module will address the most recent advances in deep learning and reinforcement learning. Paradigms such as meta-learning, meta reinforcement learning, imitation learning, curriculum learning, and behavioral cloning will be discussed. Additionally, the course will delve into the architecture of attention mechanisms and transformer networks. Practical case studies using Python and Pytorch will be presented. PROGRAM: Module 1: Model-Based Optimization Techniques for Control
|
Gabriele Costante Francesco Ferrante |
18 | 3 | |
| 5 |
Measurement systems for localization
Information about the position of users, structures, and systems is crucial in many engineering applications. This course presents an overview of the main characteristics and requirements of location-aware applications in several operating scenarios, together with the fundamental electronic measurement techniques. Methods and algorithms for static position estimation and dynamic tracking are also described.
PROGRAM:
|
Alessio De Angelis Francesco Santoni |
June 14 – July 16, 2027 |
18 | 3 |
| 6 |
Quality control through contactless systems Quality control is essential in many industrial applications. Numerous measurement methodologies are available to characterize a product or a process. Among these, contactless methods certainly offer several advantages, particularly in terms of measurement speed and the non-intrusive nature of the technique. Therefore, an in-depth knowledge of these systems is crucial for designing and developing new measurement solutions that can serve as the foundation for industrial quality control and model validation.
There are many industrial applications in fields such as fluid dynamics, leak detection in tanks, verification of electrical circuits, detection of thermal losses, optimization of heat exchangers, biomedical engineering, material fatigue studies, FEM model validation, and more. During the course, different methodologies will be presented, along with their operating principles, the challenges related to their implementation, and numerous practical examples will be provided. PROGRAM: Study of non-contact investigation methods, including infrared thermography, Digital Image Correlation (DIC), and 3D scanning technologies. Detailed analysis of signal-to-noise ratio, optical system selection, and measurement uncertainty evaluation. Guidelines for optimal system usage and a series of practical application examples will also be provided. |
Roberto Marsili | November 2027
Schedule Classes will begin on Monday, November 9th
|
18 | 3 |
| 7 |
Metallic materials for sustainable nuclear power plant Nowadays, access to green, reliable, sustainable, and affordable energy source is a critical necessity for our social and economic prosperity. An energy mix based on nuclear reactors, both fission and fusion, and renewable energy sources represents one of the most promising options for decarbonisation. Nuclear power from fission reaction is already available but the possibility to switch to a fusion based alternative is the current challenge. In this context,Europe recognises the fission and fusion options as a potential long-term answer to energy sustainability.
The technological challenges for the development of innovative fission and fusion reactors are numerous, but the issue of materials is certainly of great importance. There is an ongoing need to validate and develop materials that will be able to withstand high radiation loads. The combination of high radiation density and high thermo-mechanical stresses makes the reactor environment highly aggressive for materials. These conditions cause changes in the microstructure and micro-composition of metal alloys, resulting in dimensional instability and degradation of mechanical properties. For structural materials, physical properties such as low coefficient of thermal expansion, high thermal conductivity and low elastic modulus are extremely important as they help to minimise temperature and stress gradients. To ensure high component performance, it is required to consider materials that retain high ductility to accommodate thermal and mechanical expansion, high temperature tensile strength and the ability to withstand long-term deformation. TEACHING CONTENT: Introduction of sustainable nuclear power plants: Fission and Fusion Plants Resistance behaviour of metals and alloys subjected to neutron irradiation: microstructural damage and irradiation effects Structural alloys for fission and fusion power plants |
Giulia Stornelli | 18 | 3 | |
| 8 |
Immersive Technologies for Cultural Heritage The course explores the role of immersive technologies in the documentation, interpretation, enhancement, and dissemination of cultural heritage. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students will examine tools and methodologies related to Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Mixed Reality (MR), digital twins, spatial computing, generative AI, and interactive environments for museums, archaeological sites, archives, and performative practices
|
18 | 3 | ||
| 9 |
Introduction to Intellectual property Il modulo fa parte di una serie di insegnamenti messi a disposizione di tutti i dottorandi del XLI ciclo che afferiscono ai vari collegi di dottorato dell'Ateneo (vd. https://www.unipg.it/files/pagine/1998/didattica_tipc.pdf)
L'insegnamento si pone l'obiettivo di fornire agli studenti una conoscenza completa dei concetti fondamentali della proprietà intellettuale (PI), inclusi brevetti, marchi, diritti d'autore e segreti commerciali. |
Corso Ateneo Biancamaria Torquati |
TBD | 18 | 3 |
| 10 |
Applied statistics for experiment design and data Il modulo fa parte di una serie di insegnamenti messi a disposizione di tutti i dottorandi del XLI ciclo che afferiscono ai vari collegi di dottorato dell'Ateneo (vd. https://www.unipg.it/files/pagine/1998/didattica_tipc.pdf)
L'insegnamento si pone l'obiettivo di fornire agli studenti le conoscenze e gli strumenti statistici avanzati per la progettazione di esperimenti e l'analisi di dati complessi in vari campi di applicazione. |
Corso Ateneo Claudia Fabiani Ilaria Pigliautile |
TBD | 18 | 3 |
| 11 |
How to make presentations at conferences Il modulo fa parte di una serie di insegnamenti messi a disposizione di tutti i dottorandi del XL ciclo che afferiscono ai vari collegi di dottorato dell'Ateneo (vd. https://www.unipg.it/files/pagine/1998/didattica_tipc.pdf)
L'insegnamento si pone l'obiettivo di fornire agli studenti le conoscenze e gli strumenti necessari per realizzare presentazioni efficaci a convegni. Insegnare agli studenti come strutturare un discorso chiaro e conciso. Sviluppare le capacità di public speaking degli studenti, con particolare attenzione alla comunicazione verbale e non verbale. |
Corso Ateneo | TBD | 6 | 1 |
| 12 |
Writing EU research projects Il modulo fa parte di una serie di insegnamenti messi a disposizione di tutti i dottorandi del XLI ciclo che afferiscono ai vari collegi di dottorato dell'Ateneo (vd. https://www.unipg.it/files/pagine/1998/didattica_tipc.pdf)
L'insegnamento si pone l'obiettivo di fornire agli studenti le conoscenze e gli strumenti necessari per scrivere progetti di ricerca UE di alta qualità che siano competitivi per il finanziamento. |
Corso Ateneo Sara Alimenti |
TBD | 6 | 1 |
| 13 |
Etica della Ricerca Il modulo fa parte di una serie di insegnamenti messi a disposizione di tutti i dottorandi del XLI ciclo che afferiscono ai vari collegi di dottorato dell'Ateneo (vd. https://www.unipg.it/files/pagine/1998/didattica_tipc.pdf)
Il corso tratta aspetti di carattere trasversale, toccando temi fra cui: Fondamenti di etica, Etica della ricerca in specifici campi di ricerca, Metodologie di ricerca etica. |
Corso Ateneo Gianluigi Cardinali Marco Moschini |
TBD | 12 | 2 |
| 14 |
Python for Numerical Computing and Development of Scientific Application Il modulo fa parte di una serie di insegnamenti messi a disposizione di tutti i dottorandi del XLI ciclo che afferiscono ai vari collegi di dottorato dell'Ateneo (vd. https://www.unipg.it/files/pagine/1998/didattica_tipc.pdf)
Il corso tratta aspetti di programmazione dei calcolatori elettronici di carattere generale, fornendo sia gli erudimenti sintattici del liguaggio Python sia gli strumenti per l'utilizzo di Python nell'ambito del calcolo numerico. |
Corso Ateneo Federico Cluni |
TBD | 30 | 5 |
| 15 |
How to write a PhD thesis Il modulo fa parte di una serie di insegnamenti messi a disposizione di tutti i dottorandi del XLI ciclo che afferiscono ai vari collegi di dottorato dell'Ateneo (vd. https://www.unipg.it/files/pagine/1998/didattica_tipc.pdf)
Il modulo si propone di fornire agli studenti le conoscenze e gli strumenti necessari per scrivere una tesi di dottorato di alta qualità. Discutere le diverse fasi della stesura di una tesi di dottorato, dalla scelta dell'argomento alla revisione finale. Insegnare agli studenti come condurre ricerche bibliografiche efficaci e come citare correttamente le fonti. Sviluppare le capacità di scrittura accademica degli studenti, con particolare attenzione alla chiarezza, alla concisione e all'argomentazione. |
Corso Ateneo Manuela Rebora |
TBD | 3 | 0,5 |
| 16 |
Numerical simulation of electric circuits for power devices This teaching module is a primer on numerical algorithms to integrate ordinary differential equations (ODE), and the practical applications in modeling of electric circuits for power devices with Matlab/Simulink.
PROGRAM:
|
Vittorio Bertolini | 18 | 3 | |
| 17 |
Analysis of mechanisms and mechanical system The role of engineers is rapidly changing in the new industry 4.0 framework and requires cross-functional and multidisciplinary knowledge and skills.
Mechanisms are used to transmit forces and torques and to move objects. In this scenario, mechanisms have been and continue to be essential components of mechanical systems for industrial applications. Since the knowledge of kinematics is crucial for the design and control of kinematic chains, the course aims at presenting kinematics of mechanisms introducing students to a proper design of mechanisms. PROGRAM: Rigid body mechanisms. Recalls on mechanisms: joints, architectures and topologies, analysis and synthesis. Recalls on position analysis: generalities and examples of planar serial and parallel mechanisms. Constraint analysis: joints, spatial serial chains and examples, planar single loop chains. Velocity analysis: joints, spatial serial chains and examples, planar single loop chains. The underactuation concept Design of underactuated mechanism Compliant mechanisms. Example project. |
Maria Cristina Valigi | 18 | 3 | |
| 18 |
Smart manufacturing in the transition to Industry 5.0 The current Industrial scenario is rapidly evolving to enhance productivity, reduce resource consumption (energy and material) and prioritize human-centric values. This transformation, often referred to as the digital and green transition, began with Industry 4.0 and is now evolving towards Industry 5.0.
With a strong focus on additive manufacturing technologies, thorough the investigation of multi-sensing technologies, applied AI and digital twinning for cyber-physical systems, this module explores paradigm shifts and fundamental open challenges underlying the ongoing industrial revolution, with the goal of providing a comprehensive overview of how advanced manufacturing is being reshaped through the digital and green transitions. The module begins with an overview of advanced manufacturing technologies and how they fit within the Industry 4.0 paradigm. Following an illustration of how state-of-the-art technologies of multi-sensing, AI and digital shadowing/ twinning are supporting the digital transition in manufacturing and inspection, the module introduces the next revolution: the green transition in manufacturing. Through the illustration of the three dimensions of sustainability (environmental, social and economic) the module discusses how manufacturing machines and systems are evolving to embrace the new paradigms of Industry 5.0. |
Nicola Senin Arianna Rossi |
TBD | 18 | 3 |
| 19 |
TURBULENCE: Fundamentals and applications from atmospheric to multiphase flows niversal properties of turbulent flows: Irregularity and chaos, statistical approach, dissipation and mixing; Dissipative anomaly and kinetic energy balance; Multiscale phenomenology, second-order structure functions, correlations and energy spectrum; Richardson energy cascade and vorticity.
Kolmogorov theory of homogeneous isotropic turbulence: Kolmogorov self-similarity hypothesis ; Generalized Kolmogorov equation; Inertial and viscous ranges, 4/3 law; Longitudinal velocity increments and 4/5 law; Inertial and viscous scaling of velocity and velocity gradients, estimation of crossover scales; Taylor's frozen turbulence hypothesis and isotropic estimation of dissipation. Reynolds decomposition and averaged equations: Reynolds decomposition; Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations, Reynolds stresses, and the closure problem; Mean and turbulent kinetic energy balance equations and energy transfer mechanisms. Hands-on problems on atmospheric flows and multiphase flows. |
Michele Battistoni | 18 | 3 | |
| 20 |
CFD Analysis of Electric Motors and Batteries for e-mobility Vehicle electrification for e-mobility demands a deep analysis of the thermal problems in order to increase vehicle efficiency and battery life and performance. An efficient thermal management of an electrified vehicle has to involve every system of the vehicle.
In the first part of the course, starting from physical and theoretical principles, we will review the fundamentals of these components. In parallel, the theory of CFD models used for the simulation of these components will be analyzed. In the second part of the course, two case studies (a battery and an electric motor) will be analyzed with the definition of the initial and boundary conditions. Then, CFD simulations of the chosen case studies will be performed. PROGRAM:
|
Jacopo Zembi | May 2027
schedule
|
18 | 3 |
| 21 |
Data and Video Compression Introduction
1.1 Introduction to data Compression 1.1.1 Source and Channel Coding 1.2 Compression Techniques 1.2.1 Lossless Compression 1.2.2 Lossy Compression 1.2.3 Measures of Performance 1.3 Modeling and Coding Mathematical Preliminaries for Lossless Compression 2.1 Overview 2.2 A Brief Introduction to Information Theory 2.2.1 Derivation of Average Information 2.3 Models 2.3.1 Physical Models 2.3.2 Probability Models 2.3.3 Markov Models 2.3.4 Composite Source Model 2.4 Coding 2.4.1 Uniquely Decodable Codes 2.4.2 Prefix Codes 2.4.3 The Kraft-McMillan Inequality 2.5 Algorithmic Information Theory 2.6 Minimum Description Length Principle Huffman Coding 3.1 Overview 3.2 The Huffman Coding Algorithm 3.2.1 Minimum Variance Huffman Codes 3.2.2 Optimality of Huffman Codes 3.2.3 Length of Huffman Codes 3.2.4 Extended Huffman Codes 3.3 Non-Binary Huffman Codes 3.4 Adaptive Huffman Coding 3.4.1 Update Procedure 3.4.2 Encoding Procedure 3.4.3 Decoding Procedure 3.5 Golomb Codes 3.6 Rice Codes 3.6.1 CCSDS Recommendation for Lossless Compression 3.7 Applications of Huffman Coding 3.7.1 Lossless Image Compression 3.7.2 Text Compression 3.7.3 Audio Compression Arithmetic Coding 4.1 Overview 4.2 Introduction 4.3 Coding a Sequence 4.3.1 Generating a Tag 4.3.2 Deciphering the Tag 4.4 Generating a Binary Code 4.4.1 Uniqueness and Efficiency of the Arithmetic Code 4.4.2 Algorithm Implementation 4.4.3 Integer Implementation 4.5 Comparison of Huffman and Arithmetic Coding 4.6 Adaptive Arithmetic Coding 4.7 Applications Dictionary Techniques 5.1 Overview 5.2 Introduction 5.3 Static Dictionary 5.3.1 Digram Coding 5.4 Adaptive Dictionary 5.4.1 The LZ77 Approach 5.4.2 The LZ78 Approach 5.5 Applications 133 5.5.1 File Compression—UNIX compress 5.5.2 Image Compression—The Graphics Interchange Format (GIF) 5.5.3 Image Compression—Portable Network Graphics (PNG) |
Fabrizio Frescura | 18 | 3 | |
| 22 |
Mechanical Design and Verification for Space Systems This module introduces the principles of mechanical design for space applications, focusing on the structural and reliability challenges imposed by the space environment. The course covers standards and design requirements for space systems and structures and integrates finite element analysis tools for structural verification and validation. Numerical activities are complemented by experimental vibration testing under representative dynamic loading conditions.
|
18 | 3 | ||
| 23 |
Design of machine safety This issue linked to various European product directives and especially relating to the so-called "machinery directive" will have a significant impact in the next 3 years both in industry and in academic research lines. A new European Regulation is being introduced regarding the design and construction of machines, where a machine means any product made up of two or more parts with an energy source designed and assembled for a defined purpose. They also fall into this category in our prototypes that we develop during research and installed in the laboratories.
Furthermore, the new regulation includes the introduction of artificial intelligence, security software certification and cybersecurity. |
18 | 3 | ||
| 24 |
Green Tribology: Sustainable Approaches to Friction, Wear, and Lubrication in Modern Engineering Systems This doctoral course on Green Tribology provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles governing friction, wear, and lubrication, with a particular emphasis on sustainable and environmentally responsible engineering approaches. Starting from the theoretical foundations of tribology (including contact mechanics, surface topography, and lubrication regimes ) the course progressively introduces students to experimental tribology through significant case studies involving real and special mechanical components.The course also includes a dedicated experimental laboratory activity, in which students directly measure friction coefficients, wear rates, and lubricant performance. Through this hands-on experience, participants develop practical skills in data acquisition, analysis, and interpretation of tribological results.
The integration of theoretical knowledge, industrial case studies, and experimental practice makes this course a complete training path for future researchers and engineers committed to sustainable mechanical design. |
18 | 3 |
PhD modules offered by other Universities
The students of PhD Course in Industrial and Information Engineering of University of Perugia can also select PhD modules offered by other Universities. The students can attend the modules and take the exam in other Universities, according to the rules set in each module. Our PhD Course has set up a partnership with a number of other universities, whose PhD modules are listed in the following.
- Università degli Studi di Siena
- Politecnico di Bari, Corso di Dottorato in Ingegneria Gestionale
- Scuola virtuale della Associazione Italiana Ing. Gestionale (AiIG)
- Scuola virtuale di dottorato della “Associazione Italiana delle Macchine a Fluido e dei Sistemi per l'Energia e l’Ambiente (AIMSEA)”
- Scuola virtuale di dottorato di “Impianti Industriali – Industrial Systems Engineering”
List of modules from previous PhD cycles
- a.a. 2025-2026
- a.a. 2024-2025
- a.a. 2023-2024
- a.a. 2022-2023
- a.a. 2021-2022
- a.a. 2020-2021 active for XXXVI cycle and selectable also for XXXV and XXXIV ones (updated on 06.05.2021)
- a.a. 2019-2020 active for XXXV cycle and selectable also for XXXIV and XXXIII ones
- a.a. 2018-2019
- a.a. 2017-2018
- a.a. 2016-2017
- a.a. 2015-2016
- a.a. 2014-2015
- a.a. 2013-2014