Full-time study

4 years

doc. Ing. Lukáš Fujcik, Ph.D.

Chairman :
doc. Ing. Lukáš Fujcik, Ph.D.
Vice-chairman :
doc. Ing. Jiří Vaněk, Ph.D.
Councillor internal :
prof. Ing. Pavel Koktavý, CSc. Ph.D.
prof. Ing. Jaromír Hubálek, Ph.D.
doc. Ing. Jiří Háze, Ph.D.
doc. Ing. Petr Bača, Ph.D.
Councillor external :
prof. Ing. Josef Lazar, Dr.

The doctor study programme is devoted to the preparation of the high quality scientific and research specialists in various branches of microelectronics, electrotechnology and physics of materials, namely in theory, design and test of integrated circuits and systems, in semiconductor devices and structures, in smart sensors, in optoelectronics in materials and fabrication processes for electrical engineering, in sources of electric energy, nanotechnology and defectoscopy of materials and devices.
The aim is to provide the doctor education in all these particular branches to students educated in university magister study, to make deeper their theoretical knowledge, to give them also requisite special knowledge and practical skills and to teach them methods of scientific work.

The doctors of the program "Microelectronics and technology" are able to solve scientific and complex engineering tasks from the area of microelectronics and electrical technology. Wide fundamentals and deep theoretical basis of the study program bring high adaptability and high qualification of doctors for the most of requirements of their future creative practice in all areas of microelectronics and electrotechnology. Graduates are also equipped with the knowledge and experience from, in particular, physics of semiconductors, quantum electronics and will be able to independently solve problems associated with micro- and nanotechnologies.
The doctors are competent to work as scientists and researchers in many areas of basic research or research and development, as high-specialists in the development, design, construction, and application areas in many institutions, companies, and organisations of the electrical and electronics research, development, and industry as in the areas of electrical services and systems, inclusively in the special institutions of the state administration. In all of these branches they are able to work also as the leading scientific-, research-, development- or technical managers.

Graduate of a doctoral program "Microelectronics and technology" is able to solve complex and time-consuming tasks in areas such as designer of integrated and/or electronic circuits and complex electronic devices. Graduate has a very good knowledge of the field of modern materials for electronics and their use in the electrical industry. Graduate is also able to orient himself in the field of physics of materials and components, nanotechnology and others.
This means that the graduate will be able to become a member of the development team of integrated circuits, complex electronic devices and equipment, their testing and service. In addition, graduate would be as a technologist in the electronic components fabrication process, a researcher in the field of material engineering for the electrical industry, a scientist n basic or applied research and in the introduction, implementation and application of new prospective and economically beneficial procedures and processes in the field of electronics, electrical engineering, non-destructive testing and reliability and material analysis. Likewise, graduate is also able to lead the entire team of workers in presented areas.
A typical employer of a graduate of the Microelectronics and Technology study program is a manufacturing and / or research enterprise that focuses on the areas mentioned above. Another possible employer may be a research organization i.e. the Institute of the Czech Academy of Science. The graduate finds his / her application also on the university campus as an academic at the position of a professional assistant.

Doctoral studies are carried out according to the individual study plan, which will prepare the doctoral student in cooperation with the doctoral student at the beginning of the study. The individual study plan specifies all the duties stipulated in accordance with the BUT Study and Examination Rules, which the doctoral student must fulfill to successfully finish his studies. These responsibilities are time-bound throughout the study period, they are scored and fixed at fixed deadlines. The student enrolls and performs tests of compulsory coursed. Additionally, with regard to the focus of dissertation it is compulsory to enroll and pass at least one of the following courses: Modern microelectronic systems; Electrotechnical materials, material systems and production processes; and/or Interfaces and nanostructures; and other obligatory elective subjects with regard to the focus of his dissertation, and at least two elective courses (English for PhD students, Solutions for Innovative Entries, Scientific Publishing from A to Z).
The student may enroll for the state doctoral exam only after all the tests prescribed by his / her individual study plan have been completed. Before the state doctoral exam, the student prepares a dissertation thesis describing in detail the goals of the thesis, a thorough evaluation of the state of knowledge in the area of the dissertation solved, or the characteristics of the methods it intends to apply in the solution. The defense of the controversy that is opposed is part of the state doctoral exam. In the next part of the exam the student must demonstrate deep theoretical and practical knowledge in the field of microelectronics, electrotechnology, materials physics, nanotechnology, electrical engineering, electronics, circuit theory. The State Doctoral Examination is in oral form and, in addition to the discussion on the dissertation thesis, it also consists of thematic areas related to compulsory and compulsory elective subjects.
To defend the dissertation, the student reports after the state doctoral examination and after fulfilling conditions for termination, such as participation in teaching, scientific and professional activity (creative activity) and at least a monthly study or work placement at a foreign institution or participation in an international creative project.

The doctoral studies of a student follow the Individual Study Plan (ISP), which is defined by the supervisor and the student at the beginning of the study period. The ISP is obligatory for the student, and specifies all duties being consistent with the Study and Examination Rules of BUT, which the student must successfully fulfill by the end of the study period. The duties are distributed throughout the whole study period, scored by credits/points and checked in defined dates. The current point evaluation of all activities of the student is summarized in the “Total point rating of doctoral student” document and is part of the ISP. At the beginning of the next study year the supervisor highlights eventual changes in ISP. By October, 15 of each study year the student submits the printed and signed ISP to Science Department of the faculty to check and archive.
Within the first four semesters the student passes the exams of compulsory, optional-specialized and/or optional-general courses to fulfill the score limit in Study area, and concurrently the student significantly deals with the study and analysis of the knowledge specific for the field defined by the dissertation thesis theme and also continuously deals with publishing these observations and own results. In the follow-up semesters the student focuses already more to the research and development that is linked to the dissertation thesis topic and to publishing the reached results and compilation of the dissertation thesis.
By the end of the second year of studies the student passes the Doctor State Exam, where the student proves the wide overview and deep knowledge in the field linked to the dissertation thesis topic. The student must apply for this exam by April, 30 in the second year of studies. Before the Doctor State Exam the student must successfully pass the exam from English language course.
In the third and fourth year of studies the student deals with the required research activities, publishes the reached results and compiles the dissertation thesis. As part of the study duties is also completing a study period at an abroad institution or participation on an international research project with results being published or presented in abroad or another form of direct participation of the student on an international cooperation activity, which must be proved by the date of submitting the dissertation thesis.
By the end of the winter term in the fourth year of study the students submit the elaborated dissertation thesis to the supervisor, who scores this elaborate. The final dissertation thesis is expected to be submitted by the student by the end of the fourth year of the studies.
In full-time study form, during the study period the student is obliged to pass a pedagogical practice, i.e. participate in the education process. The participation of the student in the pedagogical activities is part of his/her research preparations. By the pedagogical practice the student gains experience in passing the knowledge and improves the presentation skills. The pedagogical practice load (exercises, laboratories, project supervision etc.) of the student is specified by the head of the department based on the agreement with the student’s supervisor. The duty of pedagogical practice does not apply to students-payers and combined study program students. The involvement of the student in the education process within the pedagogical practice is confirmed by the supervisor in the Information System of the university.

1. Advanced analysis of signal processing from low-power sources

   The aim of the dissertation is to increase scientific knowledge in the field of modern methods of analysis and processing of signals from low-energy sources (energy harvestr). The PhD student will work closely with CEITEC in the framework of his/her dissertation. The use of artificial intelligence and machine learning methods for signal analysis and the design of custom energy harvesters based on softened materials are expected. Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

   Tutor: Holcman Vladimír, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

2. Determining the effect of unknown load on the battery during operation

   The work will focus on studying the effect of different types of load (higher/lower temperature, upper/lower operating window overlap, higher load) on the operating characteristics of the battery. Li-ion batteries with different electrode chemistries will be tested and will experience the above mentioned loads in addition to standard cycling. Subsequently, the effect of these loads on the operating characteristics of the batteries will be monitored and a model predicting the characteristics of the selected batteries in case they experience a certain type of load or combination of loads will be built using machine learning, which can be used to determine the load to which an unknown battery has been subjected during its operation. The topic is solved in cooperation with Škoda Auto and can be supported by a scholarship from Škoda Auto.

   Tutor: Kazda Tomáš, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

3. Dielectric spectroscopy of ceramic powders

   The thesis deals with various methods of measuring the dielectric constant and dielectric loss on ceramic powders. This is a rather complex task and will be based on two existing measurement methods. The first method is based on the mixing rule of ceramic powder with epoxy, and the second method is based on dielectro-phoretic principle. However, the results obtained by both methods are speculative and an effort is made to find a new measurement technique or to modify these already known methods.

   Tutor: Holcman Vladimír, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

4. Effect of high electric fields on ceramic dyes of graphic prints

   The research will focus on the influence of the electric field on the possible migration and colour change of the graphic prints of PV modules and the influence of the prints on the optical and electrical parameters of the PV modules. The research will be carried out in collaboration with FRAJT s.r.o. and will be possible to participate in the TACR project FW11020087 (still in competition)

   Tutor: Vaněk Jiří, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

5. Energy dissipation and temperature mapping in living cells

   The dissertation topic focuses on the innovative application of a microfluidic calorimetric system for accurate measurement of energy changes during biochemical reactions within living cells. This research aims to detect tiny temperature fluctuations linked to energy dissipation during cellular processes by employing a custom-designed microcalorimeter. The integration of advanced microelectromechanical system (MEMS) technology, temperature-sensitive fluorescent dyes, and possibly plasmonic structures will allow for the mapping of internal temperature variations and monitoring the heat balance of cells with unparalleled precision. The significant scientific contribution of this work lies in its capacity to deepen our understanding of cellular metabolism, thermogenesis, and energy-related cellular activities. This project promises to advance our knowledge in biochemistry and cellular biology by revealing the energetic underpinnings of cellular functions at the microscopic scale.

   Tutor: Neužil Pavel, prof. Ing., Dr., DSc.

6. Hardware implementation of the AI algorithm into an integrated circuit

   Study the possibilities of artificial intelligence algorithms and the availability of their implementation in customer integrated circuits. Design an advanced machine learning method for on-chip hardware implementation for the automotive industry. The mentioned algorithm must primarily focus on driving optimization - prediction of collision situations, consumption and vehicle service management. This is a topic that will be addressed in the framework of cooperation with Taiwanese partners.

   Tutor: Háze Jiří, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

7. Methods for evaluating Li-Ion battery degradation using artificial intelligence

   The thesis is focused on a deeper study of algorithms that are applicable in the field of Li-Ion battery degradation evaluation using tools that use AI such as deep learning, machine learning or neural network. The output of the thesis will be an optimized predictive model that can be further developed to a specific type of application and will serve as the basis for a digital twin battery system.

   Tutor: Vyroubal Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

8. Microfluidic systems with transparent electrodes for optical monitoring of the behavior of living cells

   The dissertation topic focuses on the development and application of innovative microfluidic systems for monitoring of the behavior of living cells. The key scientific contribution will be the ability to observe and analyze cellular processes in real-time using advanced optical techniques. This capability will be supported by a specially designed configuration of the microfluidic system. The design and implementation will be realized by the student. The system will utilize transparent and semitransparent electrodes placed on transparent substrates such as fused silica or glass, creating a completely transparent system. This unique construction will enable the use of an inverted microscope to observe cellular behavior through the substrate and electrodes using high-magnification objectives with short working distances for maximum magnification and resolution. The important aspect of the work will be the integration of various methods and techniques leading to the creation of a complex system for efficient monitoring of vital parameters of living cells. The mentioned electrodes will provide the opportunity to measure electrical signals and cell impedance, contributing to a deeper understanding of their behavior and reactions.

   Tutor: Gablech Imrich, Ing., Ph.D.

9. New Approaches in Integrated Circuit Design for Space Applications

   This doctoral thesis deals with the research and implementation of novel approaches in the design of integrated circuits with consideration for their use in the space environment. The aim of the work is to examine current challenges and limitations in the field of electronic system design for space missions and to propose innovative solutions that bring improvements in areas such as reliability, radiation tolerance, energy efficiency, and integration. Throughout the work, existing methods for the design of integrated circuits for space applications will be analyzed, and key areas requiring innovation will be identified. Subsequently, new techniques and algorithms will be proposed and implemented to address these issues and advance the field of design for the space environment.

   Tutor: Fujcik Lukáš, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

10. New approaches in the characterization of charge transport in electrochemical transistors

    The thesis is focused on the study of new unorthodox approaches, based also on machine learning, to evaluate physical measurements of transport characteristics in electrochemical transistors based on ionic liquid as well as in graphene transistors. In addition to the conventional characterization, the fluctuation of charge carrier transport will be emphasized. The organic samples are prepared at ZČU in Pilsen, where the thesis is going to be based on a long-term cooperation between the departments. Graphene samples are prepared at UFYZ. The student working on this topic is going to be involved in fundamental and applied research projects running at UFYZ with appropriate financial remuneration, in the amount of 1.25 times the minimum wage.

    Tutor: Sedlák Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

11. New electrode materials for Li-ion and post-lithium ion batteries

    The work is focused on the study of advanced electrode materials for positive electrodes of Li-ion and post-lithium ion batteries. Materials based on carbon-metal structures and high-entropy oxides will be studied in order to achieve the highest possible electrochemical activity and cycling stability. These materials will be studied using newly developed techniques to monitor the processes occurring at the electrodes during cycling in collaboration with Thermo Fisher Scientific.

    Tutor: Kazda Tomáš, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

12. New processes in the field of solder joints with a focus on improving their quality

    Soldered joints are an integral part of electronic modules and systems, where nowadays there is still an effort to achieve the best possible quality and the highest reliability. Thanks to this, it is necessary to achieve not only the optimization of existing soldering processes, but also new methods that will ensure a significant shift in this area. The main goal of the project will be to determine the influence of non-standard parameters used in the soldering process, as well as a new combination of used parameters on the resulting solder joint, or the structure of the solder alloy in general. Ultrasonic transducers, electric current, electromagnetic fields, etc. can be used for this. The main monitored parameters of soldered joints, or of brazing alloys will be their mechanical strength, morphology and generally their internal structure. The student will have the opportunity to travel for an internship abroad to Germany, Hungary or Austria, where we have contacts and cooperation in the given field of research. He will also have the opportunity to participate in foreign professional conferences.

    Tutor: Fohlerová Zdenka, doc. Mgr., Ph.D.

13. Novel integrated circuits for biomedical applications

    This work aims to design novel integrated circuits in modern technologies that reflect modern trends in biomedical engineering. The thesis will result in novel circuit structures designed on the transistor level and verified by advanced analyses that take into account local and global process variation or measurements on a real chip. This is a topic that will be addressed in the framework of cooperation with Taiwanese partners.

    Tutor: Kledrowetz Vilém, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

14. Novel structures of tunable analog circuits using SOI technology

    The aim of this work is to get acquainted with the properties of modern SOI technologies and the resulting possibilities of tuning parameters of analog circuits used in AD converters. The research output will be new analog circuit structures designed on the transistor level and their verification by advanced analysis comprising the local and global process variations. This is a topic that will be addressed in the framework of cooperation with Taiwanese partners.

    Tutor: Kledrowetz Vilém, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

15. Optimization of the fabrication process for SiC technology

    Study the manufacturing procedure of semiconductors based on SiC technology. The production process for this technology suffers from a number of shortcomings that must be eliminated. Focus on particular production steps and propose possible procedures that will lead to their optimization. This is a topic that will be addressed in the framework of cooperation with Taiwanese partners.

    Tutor: Háze Jiří, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

16. Radiation characteristics of thermal plasmas

    Radiation energy transfer influences significantly physical processes occuring in the plasma, it plays important role in many devices in plasma processing devices. Electric arc plasmas are utilized in number of industrial applications, e.g. in plasma metallurgy, waste treatment, plasma cutting, welding or spraying. The goal of the work is to solve the equation of radiation transfer by means of various approximate methods , to compare the obtained results of radiation energy and radiation flux for selected kinds of plasmas, to discuss availability of different approximate methods. The student working on this topic is going to be involved in fundamental and applied research projects running at UFYZ with appropriate financial remuneration, in the amount of 1.25 times the minimum wage.

    Tutor: Bartlová Milada, doc. RNDr., Ph.D.

17. SiC dopant profiling by means of secondary electron spectroscopy

    Semiconductor industry is the backbone of the information industry, making possible such amenities of modern life as smart technologies, fast 5G connectivity, Internet of Things, or artificial intelligence. Among semiconductors, silicon carbide (SiC) has received much attention as an ideal material for power devices. Compared to silicon, it features 3 times as high thermal conductivity and 10 times as high breakdown electric field strength. In the process of manufacturing semiconductor materials and devices, and also during their diagnostics and development, dopant profiling is an important technique providing vital information about the amount and spatial distribution of elements added to the basic material in a low concentration that help shape the properties of the resulting semiconductor. As device integration grows ever stronger and feature sizes go well below 10 nanometers, traditional dopant profiling techniques (such as STM, SRP, SIMS, C-V profiling) are not sufficient. This is because either their lateral resolution, accuracy, sensitivity or throughput do not meet the needs of largescale semiconductor production. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) is a diagnostic technique that can solve all of these problems. In SEM, areas with different dopant concentrations appear as areas of differing brightness. The mechanism of this is however not understood well enough. The main underlying mechanism are the bulk built-in voltages of the p-n junction, but there are other processes at play that influence the dopant contrast in a SEM, such as local external electric field, surface band-bending field, refraction effects at the semiconductor–vacuum interface, presence of adlayers (oxides, hydrocarbons) and the geometry of the detection of signal electrons (including the distribution of fields in the SEM chamber, location of the sample and the detector system, etc.) It has been shown that spectroscopy of secondary electrons emitted from the sample in a SEM greatly decreases the sensitivity of the signal information towards external influences such as surface contamination or native oxide layer that otherwise skew the dopant concentration information. This eliminates the need for ultra high vacuum that would otherwise ensure the absence of these adlayers. Also, secondary electron spectra can further be processed by a neural network that is able to separate the detected spectra into several overlapping ones, singling out the signal contribution from the contamination and that from the semiconductor itself. With our research we would like to throw more light on the possible causes influencing dopant contrast formation in silicon carbide, using the tools of secondary electron emission spectroscopy performed with an in-lens detector system in an SEM, and neural network powered processing of spectra obtained.

    Tutor: Knápek Alexandr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.