Introduction to the new Engineering Doctorate 'Autonomous Systems' at the University of Groningen
During the innovation brokers' meeting last week, Marianne, Carl, Theodoor, Jasper and Christian had an inspiring introduction to Paris Avgeriou and Laura Florez-Sampedro of the University of Groningen. We talked about the new Engineering Doctorate (EngD) in Autonomous Systems, which will start September 1. This innovative program focuses on training highly qualified engineers capable of solving real technical challenges within companies.
Purpose and Content of Training.
The Engineering Doctorate in Autonomous Systems is a customized program that offers technical training in areas such as software/systems engineering, robotics, artificial intelligence, systems & control and mechatronics. The program matches suitable candidates with companies that have specific technology challenges. The training results in an official title recognized in both the Netherlands and the EU.
This integration is not done anywhere else yet. In effect, we aim to strengthen the design methods and tools for the development of high-tech software-intensive systems (such as mechatronics, smart manufacturing systems, Internet of Things (IoT) and robotics systems.
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Paris Avgeriou Scientific Director of EngD Autonomous Systems - University of Groningen
Benefits for Companies
For companies, the EngD program in Autonomous Systems offers numerous benefits:
- Attract or retain talent: Companies can attract talented engineers or further specialize existing employees.
- Technical solutions: Companies get technical solutions to complex problems that they don't have the resources, technology or people for themselves.
- Intellectual property rights: The intellectual property rights of the developed solutions remain with the company.
- Cost-effectiveness: At 35.7k per year (50% of which is subsidized by the Just Transition Fund), companies can solve their problem within two years and potentially bring on board a new employee with a doctorate.
- Access to talent: The program provides an affordable way to attract talent, solve problems and gain access to technical talent who become familiar with the company over two years.
Start in September
The first intake of about 15 candidates will begin Sept. 1. The program targets young people who have just completed their master's degrees, as well as employees of member companies who want to specialize further. The program is supported by the Bernoulli Institute for Mathematics, Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence and the ENTEG (Engineering and Technology Institute Groningen).
Paris Avgeriou, scientific director of EngD Autonomous Systems, is excited about the possibilities this program offers: "We are starting something new and we are very ambitious. As far as I'm concerned, there will be more of these kinds of programs in the North of the Netherlands in the future. This is just the beginning."
Supplement to the EDIH NN program.
The EngD Autonomous Systems is a valuable addition to the EDIH NN program. The collaboration allows us to help participating companies address complex technological challenges. EDIH NN innovation brokers, topic specialists and business developers can use this PhD as a strategic tool to advance technology, develop talent and cut costs. This creates a win-win situation for all involved and helps develop autonomous systems and train the next generation of engineers.
Are you fascinated by the high-tech industry or already working in it? Do you want to explore the complexity of designing autonomous systems and their advanced technologies? Do you have a master's degree in Computer Science, AI or Mechanical Engineering? Are you proactive and innovative? Then the Autonomous Systems program is for you!