Full-time study

4 years

prof. Ing. Jiří Burša, Ph.D.

Chairman :
prof. Ing. Jiří Burša, Ph.D.
Councillor internal :
prof. Ing. Luboš Náhlík, Ph.D.
prof. Ing. Jindřich Petruška, CSc.
prof. Ing. Miroslav Raudenský, CSc.
doc. Ing. Jaroslav Katolický, Ph.D.
prof. RNDr. Michal Kotoul, DrSc.
prof. Ing. Ivo Dlouhý, CSc.
doc. Ing. Robert Grepl, Ph.D.

The study programme in Applied Mechanics is focused on the preparation of highly qualified experts with the prerequisites for scientific work, mastering modern computational and experimental methods in the field of body mechanics, including specific areas of mechatronics and biomechanics. The aim of the study is to provide students with the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical experience in the field of mechanics corresponding to the topic of doctoral studies. To achieve the set goals and profile, students complete the subjects prescribed by their Individual Study Plan, which creates a theoretical basis for mastering the topic at the highest level. They then prove their practical mastery of the topic by passing the State Doctoral Examination and preparing and defending the Doctoral Dissertation.

Graduates of the doctoral program Applied Mechanics have highly specialized professional knowledge and competencies, especially in modern computational and experimental methods in the field of applied mechanics, or mechatronics or biomechanics, and their use in research and development in technical and medical. At the same time, it has professional adaptability, which gives great chances for employment in research and development, as well as in the field of technical calculations and managerial positions. This is evidenced by graduates working not only in academia and private research, but also in small computer and software companies, including leadership and management positions in design, computing and development departments or sales offices of international companies. With the penetration of computer modelling and support into the field of medicine, the application of biomechanics can be expected not only in this interdisciplinary sphere of research and development, but also in newly emerging positions of computer support in hospitals and clinical workplaces.

The graduate of the doctoral programme in Applied Mechanics has highly specialized professional knowledge, but also professional adaptability, which gives great opportunities for employment in research and development, as well as in the field of technical calculations and managerial positions. This is evidenced by graduates working not only in academia and private research, but also in small computer and software companies, including leadership and management positions in design, computing and development departments or sales offices of international companies. With the penetration of computer modelling and support into the field of medicine, the application of biomechanics can be expected not only in this interdisciplinary sphere of research and development, but also in newly emerging positions of computer support in hospitals and clinical workplaces.

See applicable regulations, DEAN’S GUIDELINE Rules for the organization of studies at FME (supplement to BUT Study and Examination Rules)

The rules and conditions of study programmes are determined by:
BUT STUDY AND EXAMINATION RULES
BUT STUDY PROGRAMME STANDARDS,
STUDY AND EXAMINATION RULES of Brno University of Technology (USING "ECTS"),
DEAN’S GUIDELINE Rules for the organization of studies at FME (supplement to BUT Study and Examination Rules)
DEAN´S GUIDELINE Rules of Procedure of Doctoral Board of FME Study Programmes
Students in doctoral programmes do not follow the credit system. The grades “Passed” and “Failed” are used to grade examinations, doctoral state examination is graded “Passed” or “Failed”.

Brno University of Technology acknowledges the need for equal access to higher education. There is no direct or indirect discrimination during the admission procedure or the study period. Students with specific educational needs (learning disabilities, physical and sensory handicap, chronic somatic diseases, autism spectrum disorders, impaired communication abilities, mental illness) can find help and counselling at Lifelong Learning Institute of Brno University of Technology. This issue is dealt with in detail in Rector's Guideline No. 11/2017 "Applicants and Students with Specific Needs at BUT". Furthermore, in Rector's Guideline No 71/2017 "Accommodation and Social Scholarship“ students can find information on a system of social scholarships.

The doctoral study programme in Applied Mechanics is a continuation of the currently accredited follow-up master's study programme in Applied Mechanics and Biomechanics. However, it focuses more generally on graduates of subsequent master's degree programmes in various fields of mechanics and mechatronics, or mathematical, physical or materials engineering, the graduates of which are able to continue in the third stage of study and obtain the scientific degree of Ph.D. demonstrate the ability of scientific work.

1. round (applications submitted from 01.04.2026 to 31.05.2026)

1. Adaptive control and state estimation of dynamic systems using local linear models

   The thesis will deal with research in the field of control and identification of nonlinear dynamic systems using methods based on the idea of local linear models (Lazy Learning, LWR, RFWR). The identificated inverse dynamic model will be used as a feedforward compensator in the structure of a composite regulator. The results of the research will be verified experimentally with real systems available in the Mechatronics laboratory (education models, automotive actuators, etc.) using the Matlab/Simulink computational environment and available hardware resources. Implementation in the form of an electronic control unit with a microcontroller is expected.

   Supervisor: Grepl Robert, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

2. Analysis of influence of blood flow in arteries on development of atherosclerosis

   This is an actual biomechanical topic, included in the solved project Mebiosys. It continues the works done within the framework of recent doctoral theses, which improved significantly the level of FSI analyses of blood flow in arteries and description of mechanical properties of arterial wall; it opened the possibility to investigate the impact on initiation of atherosclerotic changes in critical parts of arteries and atheroma vulnerability. The objective of this specific topic is to identify the quantities and parameters with significant impact on initiation of atherosclerosis or rupture risk of atheroma fibrous cap.

   Supervisor: Burša Jiří, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

3. Application of digital image correlation to residual stress measurement using the hole-drilling method

   Residual stresses play an important role in the design and lifetime assessment of mechanical components; therefore, their accurate determination is essential. One of the most widely used techniques for residual stress measurement is the hole-drilling method, in which the possibility of replacing strain measurement using strain gauge rosettes with an optical method, namely digital image correlation, is currently being investigated. The aim of the doctoral thesis is to implement the digital image correlation method into the hole-drilling method and to extend its applicability to cases where the conventional strain gauge approach does not provide sufficiently accurate or reliable results.

   Supervisor: Návrat Tomáš, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

4. Calibration and validation of CFD models for solid-particle erosion in curved flow geometries

   The aim of the doctoral thesis is to develop and validate a numerical (CFD) methodology for predicting erosion caused by solid particles in flows over curved walls and in technically relevant geometries. The student will work with multiphase modelling (Euler–Lagrange/DPM), including the selection of appropriate boundary conditions, turbulence modelling, and particle–wall interaction. An important part of the work will be the calibration of erosion-model parameters (e.g., Finnie/Tabakoff) against experimental data and a sensitivity analysis of these parameters. The thesis will also include uncertainty quantification and the definition of applicability limits for different materials, particle sizes and concentrations, and operating conditions. The main outputs will be validated computational procedures and recommendations for transferring results from laboratory configurations to more complex real-world geometries (e.g., blade passages of turbines and pumps).

   The thesis will be carried out within an international GAČR project in collaboration with the University of Ljubljana (Slovenia), enabling research stays, conference travel, and other international activities.

   Supervisor: Rudolf Pavel, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

5. Cavitation–particle erosion synergy: experimental investigation and quantitative damage assessment

   The aim of the PhD thesis is to experimentally investigate and quantify the synergy between cavitation and solid-particle erosion, i.e., situations where their combined action leads to significantly different damage than either phenomenon acting alone. The student will design and carry out tests in a hydraulic loop with controlled cavitation (e.g., by adjusting pressure) and a well-defined particle supply. A key focus will be identifying the dominant mechanisms (bubble collapse, particle acceleration, changes in impact angles, and local shear) and linking them to the material removal rate. The work will include detailed analysis of damaged surfaces using 3D surface topography and microscopy, as well as the creation of comparable erosion maps. The outcome will be a coherent experimental dataset and correlations that can be used to validate and refine numerical models.

   The thesis will be conducted within an international GAČR project in collaboration with the University of Ljubljana (Slovenia), enabling a research stay, conference travel, and other international activities.

   Supervisor: Rudolf Pavel, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

6. Computational Modeling of Oncologically Affected Joints after Megaprosthesis Implantation

   The dissertation focuses on the computational modeling of joints affected by musculoskeletal tumors following reconstruction with a megaprosthesis. The aim is to analyze the biomechanical behavior of the implanted joint and the adjacent bone tissue, with emphasis on mechanical stability, load transfer, and remodeling processes in the periprosthetic region. Based on patient imaging data (CT/MRI), patient-specific geometric and material models will be developed to enable simulation of various loading conditions and surgical reconstruction scenarios after tumor resection.

   Supervisor: Marcián Petr, Ing., Ph.D.

7. Computational modelling of electromechanical activity of cardiomyocytes in failing hearts

   The aim of this work is to supplement the existing models of cardiac ventricular cells with a mathematical description of cellular mechanical activity, to mathematically formulate the changes in membrane ion transport and excitation-contraction coupling in myocytes of failing hearts, and to explore the consequences of these changes for the electromechanical activity of cardiomyocytes by means of computational modelling.

   Supervisor: Fuis Vladimír, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

8. Computational modelling of impact of reduction of membrane t-tubules on electro-mechanical activity of cardiac cells

   The membrane of cardiac cells contains a system of tubules (t-tubules) that enable the spread of electrical excitation from the surface to the interior of the cells and subsequently initiate processes leading to cell contraction. T-tubules, therefore, play a key role in the electromechanical activity of cardiac cells. Chronic heart diseases are accompanied by a loss of t-tubules but a detailed mathematical analysis of the effect of their reduction on cell contractility is still lacking. The aim of this work is to supplement the existing models of cardiac ventricular cells with a mathematical description of cellular mechanical activity and to simulate the effect of pathological reduction or remodelling of t-tubules on this activity.

   Supervisor: Fuis Vladimír, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

9. Design and optimization of self-cleaning radial fans for industrial applications

   The research focuses on the design and optimization of self-cleaning radial fans that efficiently separate airborne particles during operation without requiring filters or additional separation components. The goal is to reduce operational costs, improve cooling efficiency, and minimize maintenance in high-dust industrial environments, such as air-cooled electrical machines, heat exchangers, or industrial ventilation systems. The study will include numerical simulations of airflow behavior in the fan geometry, as well as the design and experimental testing of a physical prototype. The work will also evaluate the energy efficiency, durability, and environmental benefits of this fan type compared to conventional air handling systems.

   Supervisor: Kotrbáček Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

10. Development of Electromechanical Converters for Floating Structures and Marine Applications

    This doctoral research will focus on the development, modeling, and experimental validation of electromechanical converters for marine environments, with particular emphasis on floating structures and hydromechanical systems. The PhD study will investigate both electromagnetic and piezoelectric transduction mechanisms and their integration into marine platforms for combined energy harvesting and sensing applications.

    The central objective is to establish a unified theoretical and experimental framework that describes the dynamic coupling among marine excitation, structural response, and electromechanical energy conversion. Special attention will be devoted to low-frequency and irregular wave-induced motion, nonlinear dynamic effects, frequency matching, and electromechanical coupling mechanisms that govern the efficiency and robustness of energy conversion.

    Beyond standalone energy harvesting, the research will explore dual-function electromechanical systems in which piezoelectric or electromagnetic elements operate simultaneously as power generators and structural sensors. This includes the development of self-powered sensing strategies capable of monitoring deformation, vibration, and dynamic loading of floating platforms and selected hydromechanical components under real marine conditions.

    Supervisor: Hadaš Zdeněk, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

11. Effect of surface structure on boundary layer properties, cavitation inception and cavitation erosion

    The aim of the dissertation is to investigate the influence of differently shaped and differently spaced structures on the surface of a hydraulic profile on its hydraulic and cavitation characteristics. The work will be carried out first using computational simulations based on hybrid approaches to turbulence modelling, followed by experimental validation in the fluid engineering department's cavitation tunnel. Applications can be found in hydraulic machine blades or on the functional surfaces of various hydraulic devices (e.g. valves).

    Supervisor: Rudolf Pavel, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

12. Fault detection and isolation for nonlinear systems

    Application of poweful microcontrollers allows implementation of advanced supplementary functions. One of an important areas of recent development are algorithms for detection, isolation and management of faults in mechatronic systems. This work will deal with the development of new algorithms based on local linear models and soft computing methods. Theoretical and simulation results will be verified on real systems available at Mechatronics laboratory (edu models, automotive actuators etc.). The modelling in Matlab+ is expected as well as the experimental use of Real-Time Rapid Prototyping dSPACE.

    Supervisor: Grepl Robert, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

13. Heat treatment of 3D printed metal parts for aerospace

    Heat treatment of metal parts produced by additive manufacturing (3D printing) is an integral part of this production. The heat treatment of these parts is absolutely necessary to achieve a higher quality of the final product, which leads to an increase in its added value, which is crucial for the practice. This research focuses on identifying and characterizing suitable heat treatment regimes. The student will have the opportunity to participate in research on the heat treatment process of super alloys such as Titan and Inconel, intended for demanding conditions and in the field of aviation and cosmonautics (space industry).

    Supervisor: Kotrbáček Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

14. Innovative laser cleaning techniques for high-temperature oxide removal in industrial applications

    The objective of this thesis is to explore and optimize the laser cleaning process for removing high-temperature oxides from steel surfaces. The student will conduct an experimental analysis of the effects of various laser parameters on the efficiency of oxide removal and surface quality. The work will also include an assessment of the economic feasibility of the proposed method compared to conventional cleaning techniques.

    Supervisor: Kotrbáček Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

15. Integrated Piezoelectric Systems for Composite Structure Monitoring and Diagnostics

    This research topic focuses on the integration of MFC (Macro Fiber Composite) piezoelectric sensors directly into composite structures during their manufacturing process for continuous structural health monitoring. The system utilizes the ability of piezoelectric materials to respond to mechanical deformations that indicate the initiation and development of various types of damage such as delamination, matrix damage, or fiber failure. A key component of this work will be the development of algorithms for signal processing and damage detection, implementation of predictive models utilizing machine learning approaches for remaining useful life estimation. This topic combines materials engineering, mechanical structure monitoring, signal processing, and predictive maintenance with the goal of ensuring long-term reliability and safety of composite structures in critical applications such as aerospace industry, energy sector, and automotive industry.

    Supervisor: Lošák Petr, Ing., Ph.D.

16. Machine learning methods for walking control of mobile robot in outdoor spaces

    Walking robots, especially quadrupeds or humanoids, are coming to the fore in the field of machine learning methods application for the development of adaptive walking methods with respect to environmental constrains. The design of robust walking control with the possibility of real-time adaptation to the surrounding conditions and terrain profile is the main topic of this thesis.

    Supervisor: Věchet Stanislav, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

17. Multiphase Heat Transfer in Porous Oxide Layers during Spray Cooling

    This PhD project addresses multiphase heat transfer during spray cooling of hot steel surfaces covered by porous oxide layers. The research will focus on the development of advanced CFD models in OpenFOAM to simulate transient interaction between water jets or droplets and heated porous iron-oxide structures reconstructed from micro-CT and SEM data. The work will combine Volume-of-Fluid (VOF) modeling of droplet impingement, liquid transport within complex porous media driven by inertial and capillary forces, and phase change due to intense heating and boiling. Key challenges include coupling free-surface multiphase flow with evaporation processes and performing large-scale simulations on complex geometries using HPC resources, with applications in optimization of industrial spray cooling in steel manufacturing.

    Supervisor: Boháček Jan, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

18. Role of Residual Elements from Recycled Scrap on a Heat Transfer

    Transitioning to zero-carbon steelmaking requires a comprehensive understanding of the surface-related impacts of this shift. The surface quality of advanced steel grades is essential for mechanical performance, corrosion resistance, aesthetics, and downstream processes, all dependent on precise control of alloying and processing conditions. However, incorporating residual elements from recycled scrap—driven by circularity requirements—introduces complexities that alter oxide scale behavior during steel processing. The presence of oxides with a low thermal conductivity is generally considered as a thermal barrier on a steel surface. However, in a certain industrial application, it was observed that the oxide layer unexpectedly changed a cooling intensity. The goal of the thesis is to describe the influence of scrap residual elements on heat transfer by characterization of the average Thermal insulance coeffcient.

    Supervisor: Hnízdil Milan, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

19. Simulations of ductile fracture of the 2024-T351 aluminium alloy at high strain rates

    The aluminium alloy 2024-T351 is widely used in aerospace, for example. However, material failure occurs at high strain rates in accidents, which has not yet been satisfactorily studied. Therefore, the work will focus on computational modelling of ductile fracture at various stress states and strain rates.

    Supervisor: Šebek František, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

20. Study of deformation processes in HCP alloys under complex stress state

    Magnesium and titanium alloys are important structural materials in hi-tech applications such as aerospace or the medical industry because of their superior combination of low density, mechanical strength, corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. Nowadays, with the boom of additive manufacturing technologies, material properties need to be specifically designed for particular applications. Therefore, it is necessary to completely understand the processes that drive the behaviour of materials. The magnesium and titanium alloys have an HCP crystal lattice. Such atomic ordering results in a complex plastic deformation mechanism, including slip and twinning. Studying these phenomena is challenging as they combine a wide range of temporal and spatial scales from the atomic level to material grain size.

    The thesis focuses on investigating plastic slip and twinning under complex loading conditions at the micro level and suggesting ways of controlling these processes to achieve the required macroscopic mechanical properties. The analysis will be based on the combination of theoretical and experimental approaches. The theoretical part will include numerical simulations based on the finite element method and advanced theories of plasticity, and the experiments will be based on nanoindentation techniques that are able to create complex stress states.

    Supervisor: Šiška Filip, Dr. Ing., Ph.D.

21. Visual Perception and Spatial Understanding for Autonomous Navigation of Mobile Robots in Indoor Environments

    The topic focuses on the processing of visual information from camera sensors using methods of visual SLAM with the aim of achieving a spatial understanding of the surrounding environment of mobile robots in the interior spaces of buildings. Emphasis is placed on visual perception, sensor data fusion, and decision-making mechanisms for reliable autonomous operation.

    Supervisor: Věchet Stanislav, doc. Ing., Ph.D.