The ComplexWorld Network will sponsor a number PhD Thesis to complement the research plan of the Network. A Call for PhDs will be launched by the end of September 2010 identifying the potential PhD Research Areas.


All Members and Participants will be invited to present a detailed PhD Proposal in response to the PhD Areas identified by the ComplexWorld Network. These areas shall be defined in such way that they provide an adequate level of detail, so as to ensure the alignment of the PhD Proposals with the scope of the Network, but also in a sufficiently generic manner not to discourage any creative, potentially disrupting proposal.


The selection of the PhD Thesis to be funded will be made by the ComplexWorld Scientific Board, and will be based on the following criteria:

  1. Scientific quality and soundness of the PhD Proposal
  2. Applicability of results to ATM concepts and systems
  3. Process for PhD candidate selection
  4. CV of PhD supervisor
  5. Expertise and training capability of the Group/Department hosting the PhD
  6. Value for money (sponsoring, co-funding, complementary grants)

These criteria will be further explained in the Call for PhDs.

PhD studies are expected to be launched during the first half of 2011 and will have a typical duration of 36-42 months.

PhD Mobility

An important aspect of the PhD programme will be the mobility of the PhD candidate, as a means to complement his/her research capabilities. The Call for PhDs will require that each PhD candidate performs an internship, of at least 6 months, in an organization different from his/her own.

PhD Monitoring and Deliverables

The progress of the PhD studies will be evaluated by the Network Scientific Board during the ComplexWorld Annual Workshop.

The PhD candidate and supervisor will be required to produce the following deliverables:

  1. Annual progress reports (years 1, 2, 3 and 4) by the PhD candidate.
  2. Annual follow-up reports (years 1, 2, 3 and 4) by the supervisor.
  3. International congress papers (years 3 and 4) by PhD candidate and supervisor.
  4. International journal paper (year 4) by PhD candidate and supervisor.