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Fluid Mechanics Interuniversity PhD Program

  • Inicio

    Director UC3M

     

    Prof. Mario Sánchez Sanz
    Department of Thermal and Fluids Engineering, UC3M

     

    About the program

     

     

     

    Universities and departments

    Doctorado en Mecánica de Fluidos
  • ACCESS

    Student profile

     

    Access to the Ph.D. Program in Fluid Mechanics is intended for students who meet the entry requirements with degrees in the fields of Engineering and Architecture or Science, and with advanced training in the areas of mathematics, physics and/or chemistry (Degrees of Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Technology, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Environmental Science, etc.…)

     

    Admission requirements

     

    The Ph.D. program’s admission requires a Bachelor's degree or equivalent and a Master’s Degree (of no less than 60 ECTS credits). Admission to the Ph.D. Program may require the Ph.D. student additional training, depending on his current profile. This additional training, will preferably be official Bachelor and Master classes, and in any case will not be part of the Ph.D. program. This will take place in the first year and preferably in the first semester, and should not exceed the equivalent of a full-time semester. These supplements will be considered part of the Ph.D. Program, for the purposes of fees, scholarships and grants.

    Some applicants may be accepted who do not meet the previous education program, provided they meet the requirements of current legislation to access the Ph.D. program. In this case the Academic Committee will determine the additional training that the applicant must carry out in order to complete his training in the area or areas of expertise related to the program, by taking courses in the Masters in Engineering and Science in the Universities that participate in the program. Once admitted, students, depending on their previous Bachelor’s and Master’s degree background, must take the additional training determined by the Academic Board, up to a maximum of 24 credits at Bachelor’s or Master’s level to be taken in courses offered by the participating universities, with basic content in:

    • Mathematics: differential equations, mathematical methods, numerical methods. Energy: Combustion, heat transfer, energy sources, environmental impact.
    • Fluid Mechanics: Conservation equations, aerodynamics. Experimental techniques in science and engineering. Other specific determined by the Academic Committee. Learning outcomes, learning activities and assessment systems of this additional training are spelled out in the official reports of the corresponding degrees.

    Admission criteria

     

    Admission decisions will be made following specific criteria set by the Academic Committee within the general framework that is detailed in the following:

    • The adequacy of the studies that allow access to doctoral studies in relation to the research area in which the applicant intends to carry out his Ph.D. thesis. 1.0 points
    • The applicant’s resume. 2.5 points
    • The interest that the Department, Research Center or faculty responsible for thesis supervision have in the line of research that the applicant wishes to carry out, as demonstrated by a written report. 1.5 points
    • The coherence of the thesis project with the Ph.D. program research lines. 2.0 points
    • The commitment of the applicant to carry out a Ph.D. thesis and obtain the required additional training. 0.5 points
    • The availability of permanent research staff with research experience in the applicant’s intended research area. 1.5 points
    • The availability of necessary resources for the candidate’s research project. 1.0 points

    To be admitted to the Ph.D. program, the applicant must obtain a score above 7. The applicant must have a recommendation from a researcher that meets all the requirements to act as a supervisor.

     

    Seats available for the academic year: 2

     

     

  • FACULTY
    • Academic Committee

      Members of the UC3M Academic Committee:

      Prof. Mario Sánchez Sanz
      Department of Thermal and Fluids Engineering
      Universidad Carlos III de Madrid. Director of the Program

      Prof. Oscar Flores Arias
      Department of Bioengineering and Aerospace Engineering
      Universidad Carlos III de Madrid

      Prof. Javier Rodríguez Rodríguez
      Department of Thermal and Fluids Engineering
      Universidad Carlos III de Madrid

      Prof. Stefano Discetti
      Department of Bioengineering and Aeroespace Engineering
      Universidad Carlos III de Madrid

       

      Members of the Interuniversity Academic Committee:

      Prof. Cándido Gutiérrez Montes. Universidad de Jaén. Coordinator.
      Prof. Pedro García Ybarra. Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia
      Prof. Francisco Huera Huarte. Universitat Rovira i Virgili
      Prof. Francisco Higuera Antón. Universidad Politécnica de Madrid
      Prof. Mario Sánchez Sanz. Universidad Carlos III de Madrid
      Prof. Norberto Fueyo Díaz. Universidad de Zaragoza

    • Faculty
  • TRAINING

    Specific training

     

    • Active participation in seminars, conferences, courses or workshops

      The Academic Committee recommends an attendance of at least one national or international scientific conference throughout the Ph.D. program and at least one presentation of Ph.D. thesis work, in oral communication or poster format. These activities are the primary means for the Ph.D. student to participate in scientific discussions that take place at the national or international level in their field of study and to communicate the results of his research to all kinds of audiences.
       
    • Research visits aimed at obtaining the international mention in the Ph.D. degree

      Each student, advised by his tutor and supervisor, will select and decide the host center for a research visit and the best time to carry it out.

      The Academic Committee will promote visits to be carried out in the second year (full-time students) or the third year (part-time students). The applicant will propose a research plan to be developed during the visit. The objectives of the visit and the work plan to be carried out will be defined together with the receiving group. The plan requires the approval of persons responsible for supervision and tutoring.
       
    • Generating relevant contributions:

      Each student, advised by his tutor and supervisor, will select and decide the results of research that can be published, the journals and publications that it will be sent to and the moment when they will do so in accordance the guidelines set by the Academic Committee.

      The Academic Committee will require the mandatory inclusion of a plan to publicize the project results of each doctoral candidate.

      In the case of full-time students that plan should contemplate, in the second or third year of Ph.D. training, generating at least one contribution whose quality is accredited in accordance with the criteria established by the Comisión Nacional Evaluadora de la Actividad Investigadora (CNEAI) in the area of the Ph.D. thesis.

      In the case of part-time students the Academic Commission will require a significant contribution to of same quality from the third year of Ph.D. training.


    Professional and Career Development

     

    Doctoral students are required to take Professional and Career Development courses totaling 6 ECTS credits. These activities are meant to broaden their research horizons, improve their employability, and develop skills for research or teaching. To fulfill this requirements students can take classes in UC3M’s Master’s Programs in areas different from his own, take classes in other Universities, take online classes or participate in the Professional and career development courses offered by the Doctoral School and that are open to students in all Ph.D. Programs.

  • RESEARCH
    • Research Lines
      • Fluid Mechanics and Aerospace Engineering
    • Scientific results

      This is a sample of relevant publications derived from the work in doctoral theses:

       

      2020

      1. Authors: F. Veiga-López, M. Kuznetsov, D. Martı́nez-Ruiz, E. Fernández-Tarrazo, J. Grune, M. Sánchez-Sanz
      Title: Unexpected propagation of ultra-lean hydrogen flames in narrow gaps
      Journal: Phys. Rev. Lett., 124 (2020), 174501

      2. Authors: A. Millán-Merino, E. Fernández-Tarrazo, M. Sánchez-Sanz, F. A. Williams
      Title: Modified multipurpose reduced chemistry for ethanol combustion.
      Journal: Combust. Flame., 215 (2020) 221-223.

      3. Authors: A. Martínez-Calvo, A. Sevilla, GG Peng, HA Stone
      Title: Start-up flow in shallow deformable microchannels
      Journal: Journal of Fluid Mechanics 885 (2020), A25

      4. Authors: D. Moreno-Boza, A. Martínez-Calvo, A. Sevilla
      Title: Stokes theory of thin-film rupture
      Journal: Physical Review Fluids 5 (1), 014002 (2020)

      5. Authors: A. Martínez-Calvo, J. Rivero-Rodríguez, B. Scheid, A. Sevilla
      Title: Natural break-up and satellite formation regimes of surfactant-laden liquid threads
      Journal: Journal of Fluid Mechanics 883 (2020), A35

      6.- Authors: Vega-Martínez, P., Rodríguez-Rodríguez, J., van der Meer, D.
      Title: Growth of a bubble cloud in CO2-saturated water under microgravity
      Journal:  Soft Matter, 2020, 16(20), pp. 4728-4738

      7.- Authors: Ahedo, E., Correyero, S., Navarro, J., Merino, M.
      Title: Macroscopic and parametric study of a kinetic plasma expansion in a paraxial magnetic nozzle
      Journal: Plasma Sources Science and Technology, 2020, 29(4), 045017

      8.- Authors: Morante, D., Sanjurjo-Rivo, M., Soler, M., Sánchez-Pérez, J.M.
      Title:Hybrid multi-objective orbit-raising optimization with operational constraints
      Journal: Acta Astronautica, 2020, 175, pp. 447-461

       

      2019

      9.-Authors: Sánchez-Monreal, J., García-Salaberri, P.A., Vera, M.
      Title: A mathematical model for direct ethanol fuel cells based on detailed ethanol electro-oxidation kinetics
      Journal: Applied Energy, 251,113264 (2019)

      10.-Authors: Correyero, S., Merino, M., Elias, P.-Q., ...Packan, D., Ahedo, E.
      Title: Characterization of diamagnetism inside an ECR thruster with a diamagnetic loop
      Journal: Physics of Plasmas, 2019, 26(5), 053511

      11.-Authors: Plasma beam characterization along the magnetic nozzle of an ECR thruster
      Title: Correyero, S., Jarrige, J., Packan, D., Ahedo, E.
      Journal: Plasma Sources Science and Technology, 2019, 28(9), 095004

      12.- Authors: Almagro, A., Flores, O., Vera, M., Liñán, A., Sánchez, A.L., Williams, F.A.
      Title: Effects of differential diffusion on nonpremixed-flame temperature
      Journal: Proceedings of the Combustion Institute, 37(2), pp. 1757-1766 (2019)

      13.- Authors: Enríquez, Ó.R., Robles, D., Peñas-López, P., Rodríguez-Rodríguez, J.
      Title: Shaky life of a water drop in an anise oil-rich environment
      Journal: Physical Review Fluids, 4(10),100502 (2019)

      14.- Authors: Vega-Martínez, P., Rodríguez-Rodríguez, J., Khabakhpasheva, T.I., Korobkin, A.A.
      Title: Hydroelastic effects during the fast lifting of a disc from a water surface
      Journal: Journal of Fluid Mechanics, 869, pp. 726-751 (2019)

      15.- Authors: F Veiga-López, D Martínez-Ruiz, E Fernández-Tarrazo, M Sánchez-Sanz
      Title: Experimental analysis of oscillatory premixed flames in a Hele-Shaw cell propagating towards a closed end
      Journal: Combustion and Flame, 201, 1-11 (2019).

       
    • Scientific publications

      This is a sample of relevant faculty publications:

       

      2020

      1. Authors: F. Veiga-López, M. Kuznetsov, D. Martı́nez-Ruiz, E. Fernández-Tarrazo, J. Grune, M. Sánchez-Sanz
      Title: Unexpected propagation of ultra-lean hydrogen flames in narrow gaps
      Journal: Phys. Rev. Lett., 124 (2020), 174501

      2. Authors: A. Millán-Merino, E. Fernández-Tarrazo, M. Sánchez-Sanz, F. A. Williams
      Title: Modified multipurpose reduced chemistry for ethanol combustion
      Journal: Combust. Flame., 215 (2020) 221-223.

      3. Authors: Martínez-Ruiz, C Huete, AL Sánchez, FA Williams
      Title: Theory of Weakly Exothermic Oblique Detonations
      Journal: AIAA Journal, 58(1), 236-242 (2020).

      4. Authors: A. Martínez-Calvo, A. Sevilla, GG Peng, HA Stone
      Title: Start-up flow in shallow deformable microchannels
      Journal: Journal of Fluid Mechanics 885 (2020), A25

      5. Authors: D. Moreno-Boza, A. Martínez-Calvo, A. Sevilla
      Title: Stokes theory of thin-film rupture
      Journal: Physical Review Fluids 5 (1), 014002 (2020)

      6. Authors: Huete, César and Vera, Marcos
      Title: D’Yakov–Kontorovich instability in planar reactive shocks – ERRATUM
      Journal: Journal of Fluid Mechanics 884 (2020), E2

      7. Authors: A. Martínez-Calvo, J. Rivero-Rodríguez, B. Scheid, A. Sevilla
      Title: Natural break-up and satellite formation regimes of surfactant-laden liquid threads
      Journal: Journal of Fluid Mechanics 883 (2020), A35

       

      2019

      8. Authors: Fernández-Galisteo, D., Fernández-Tarrazo, E., Jiménez, C., Kurdyumov, V.N.
      Title: Analysis of an idealized counter-current microchannel-based reactor to produce hydrogen-rich syngas from methanol
      Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, 44(42), pp. 23807-23820 (2019)

      9. Authors: Redal, H., Carpio, J., García-Salaberri, P.A., Vera, M.
      Title: Development and validation of a New GUI-based CFD tool for the analysis of incompressible
      non-isothermal flows
      Journal: Processes, 7(11),777 (2019)

      10. Authors: Sánchez-Monreal, J., García-Salaberri, P.A., Vera, M.
      Title: A mathematical model for direct ethanol fuel cells based on detailed ethanol electro-oxidation kinetics
      Journal: Applied Energy, 251,113264 (2019)

      11. Authors: García-Salaberri, P.A., Zenyuk, I.V., Hwang, G., Vera, M., Weber, A.Z., Gostick, J.T.
      Title: Implications of inherent inhomogeneities in thin carbon fiber-based gas diffusion layers: A comparative modeling study
      Journal: Electrochimica Acta, 295, pp. 861-874 (2019)

      12. Authors: Almagro, A., Flores, O., Vera, M., Liñán, A., Sánchez, A.L., Williams, F.A.
      Title: Effects of differential diffusion on nonpremixed-flame temperature
      Journal: Proceedings of the Combustion Institute, 37(2), pp. 1757-1766 (2019)

      13. Authors: Enríquez, Ó.R., Robles, D., Peñas-López, P., Rodríguez-Rodríguez, J.
      Title: Shaky life of a water drop in an anise oil-rich environment
      Journal: Physical Review Fluids, 4(10),100502 (2019)

      14. Authors: Vega-Martínez, P., Rodríguez-Rodríguez, J., Khabakhpasheva, T.I., Korobkin, A.A.
      Title: Hydroelastic effects during the fast lifting of a disc from a water surface
      Journal: Journal of Fluid Mechanics, 869, pp. 726-751 (2019)

      15. Authors: Gordillo, J.M., Rodríguez-Rodríguez, J.
      Title: Capillary waves control the ejection of bubble bursting jets
      Journal: Journal of Fluid Mechanics, 867, pp. 556-571 (2019)

      16. Authors: Martínez-Ruiz, D., Veiga-López, F., Fernández-Galisteo, D., Kurdyumov, V. N., & Sánchez-Sanz, M.
      Title: The role of conductive heat losses on the formation of isolated flame cells in Hele-Shaw chambers
      Journal: Combustion and Flame, 209, 187-199 (2019).

      17. Authors: D Martínez-Ruiz, F Veiga-López, M Sánchez-Sanz
      Title: Premixed-flame oscillations in narrow channels
      Journal: Physical Review Fluids 4 (10), 100503 (2019).

      18. Authors: C. Huete and M. Vera
      Title: D'Yakov-Kontorovich instability in planar reactive shocks.
      Journal: Journal of Fluid Mechanics 879, 54-84 (2019).

      19. Authors: F Veiga-López, D Martínez-Ruiz, E Fernández-Tarrazo, M Sánchez-Sanz
      Title: Experimental analysis of oscillatory premixed flames in a Hele-Shaw cell propagating towards a closed end
      Journal: Combustion and Flame, 201, 1-11 (2019).

       

  • THESIS

    Thesis defense

     

    The doctoral thesis consists of an original research work developed by the Ph.D. candidate student in the field of knowledge of the program that enables the student for autonomous work in the field of R+D+ i.

    Universidad Carlos III de Madrid and the Doctoral School establishes the follow-up procedures to guarantee the quality of the doctorate's training and supervision. It also facilitates the procedures for the proper evaluation and defense of the doctoral thesis.

     

    Further information:

     

     

    Requirements for thesis defense in Fluid Mechanics


    To approve a defense presentation proposal, the thesis must include at least one contribution of clear relevance.

    Further information on the Universidad de Jaén website.

  • USEFUL INFORMATION
    • Ph.D. Studies Overview
      Información Práctica de los Estudios de Doctorado

       

      Our Ph.D. programs focus on the acquisition of skills and abilities required to undertake high-quality research work within the strategic framework and lines of research of the university. Students will be expected to work independently under supervision and guidance of top experts in their fields in order to produce novel, groundbreaking research work in the form of a dissertation.

      The Ph.D. thesis constitutes the expected outcome of the doctoral training, stating the specifics of the research work and results. The thesis must meet the high-quality standards required by the Ph.D. program and be subject to public defense and assessment by an independent thesis committee.

      A favorable assessment of the thesis enables Ph.D. students to request their official Ph.D. degree certificate, issued by the Spanish Ministerio de Educación, Cultura y Deporte.

       

      Doctoral training calendar 

      Duration of the academic year: October 1st through September 30th

      Process Period
      Admission According to the start semester of the PhD:

      Second semester of the 23/24 academic year
      Admission application deadline: September 1st 2023 through January 31st 2024 (23:59 h., CET) 
      PhD start date: March 30th 2024

      First semester of the 24/25 academic year
      Admission application deadline: February 1st through August 31st 2024 (23:59 h., CET) 
      PhD start date: November 15th 2024
      Enrollment According to the start semester of the PhD:

      Enrollment period for new students
      First semester: July 24th through 30th and September 1st through 30th (23:59 h., CET) of the current academic year
      Second semester: March 1st through 30th (23:59 h., CET) of the current academic year

      Enrollment period for continuing students
      September 1st through 30th (23:59 h., CET) of the current academic year
      Annual Assessment  June
      All PhD candidates are subject to annual evaluation.

      December
      Only students whose June evaluation was unfavorable are subject to evaluation. 

      In both cases the evaluation is based on the progress of the thesis project (Reseach Plan) and the doctoral activities carried out during the academic year.
       
      Thesis Defense Thesis defense can be carried out throughout the academic year.
       
    • Procedures
    • FAQ

      Ph.D. Studies

      Parque de las Moreras

      What is a Ph.D.?

      A Ph.D. is a period of training in skills and abilities required to undertake independent, high-quality research work in the realm of R&D under the supervision of top experts in their respective fields.

      What are the terms of access to a Ph.D. program?

      As a general rule, candidates are required to hold a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree. Credits for both must amount to at least 300 ECTS credits.

      Additionally, specific requirements and candidate profiles are described in each program’s terms of access. Before applying for admission, it is strongly recommended to take the  Ph.D. Programs into consideration, as well as its lines of research, profiles of the scholars involved and final results (theses and scientific publications) as proof of the program’s quality and specialization.

      Shat is the duration of a Ph.D.?

      The regular duration of a full-time Ph.D. program is 4 years. This period can be extended up to 5 years.

      The regular duration of a part-time Ph.D. program is 7 years. This period can be extended up to 8 years. 

      You may apply, for justified reasons, for either an extension or a leave of absence from your Ph.D. training period to the Academic Committee of your program. Your request must be endorsed by your tutor/advisor. Further information:  Duration of Ph.D. studies

      Can I do my Ph.D. entirely online?

      No. All Ph.D. Programs require some face-to-face activity throughout the training period. The duration of face-to-face activity is established by each Program.

      How can I apply for a part-time enrollment status?

      You can state your part-time enrollment status upon admission or, once you have initiated your training period, by submitting a request for justified reasons to the Academic Committee of your program. Your request must be endorsed by your tutor/advisor. Further information:  Enrollment status for Ph.D. studies

      If you are the recipient of a pre-doctoral contract with the UC3M, you must be a full-time student for the entire duration of the contract in application of article 21 of Law 14/2011, of  the1st of June, on Science, Technology and Innovation.

      Must I take any other training in addition to my research work?

      Yes. There are three different types of additional training to be taken during your Ph.D.:

      • Complementary training. Applicable only to students whose terms of admission state this training as required.
      • Specific training. Activities within the framework of your Ph.D. program.
      • Research Skills training. Courses or activities focused on abilities common to all disciplines (communication, academic writing, stress management, etc.).

      Further information on Doctoral Training: Monitoring and Development of these FAQ.

      A favorable assessment enables students to apply for their official Ph.D. degree certificate issued by the Spanish Ministerio de Educación, Cultura y Deporte. An additional Doctorado Internacional distinction is awarded to students who met a number of specific requirements during their training period.


      What is an Interuniversity Ph.D.?

      Interuniversity PhDs are joint degree programs by Universidad Carlos III de Madrid in collaboration with other Spanish or international institutions. The outcome of these programs does not translate into multiple degrees but just one equivalent to the training undertaken by the student.

      Admission

      How can I apply for admission to a Ph.D. program?

      Your application for admission must be submitted online. Signing in is previously required in order to get your login and password. Further information on how to carry out this process:  Apply for admission

      I have not completed my Master’s degree yet. May I apply for admission now?

      Yes. However, in the event of a favorable resolution of admission, it will be conditioned to your Master’s degree completion.

      When can I apply for admission?

      Applications for admission for the first semester of the 24/25 academic year with start date on the 15th of November 2024 can be submitted from February 1st through August 31st 2024 (Spanish peninsular time, CET)*

      Applications for admission for the second semester of the 24/25 academic year with start date on the 30th of March 2025 can be submitted from September 1st 2024 through January 31st 2025 (Spanish peninsular time, CET)*.

      *Except where noted in the details of each Ph.D. Program.

      The PhD academic year begins on October 1st and ends on September 30th. 

      What documents do I need to submit?

      Scan in advance, in pdf format, the documentation requirements to be attached to your application. The documents listed below are mandatory in all cases:

      • National Identity Document: DNI, NIE, or passport
      • Previous degree certificate or diploma (Master’s degree or equivalent), or proof of payment of issuance fees. 
      • Academic transcript of previous degree (Bachelor's and Master’s degree or equivalent), including grades
      • Curriculum Vitae
      • Authorization of disclosure of educational and employment information
      • Ph.D. research proposal
      • Endorsement for thesis project

      Some programs may require additional documents, such as reference letters by notable researchers, foreign language skills certificate, etc.

      Can I choose when to start my doctoral training?

      Yes. As a new student, you must state in your application for admission whether you want to start your training in the first semester (November 15) or second semester (March 30).

      I want to apply for a scholarship or financial aid program. Must I do it before or after applying for admission to a Ph.D.?

      It is strongly recommended to apply first for your Ph.D. program of choice at uc3m, as most of the granting institutions require proof of admission (or application for admission) to a Ph.D.

      Further information on Scholarships and Financial Aid Programs of these FAQ.

      I submitted my application. When will I know if I am admitted?

      The review process of your application consists of two stages:

      • Administrative validation. Your application will be reviewed at the Doctoral School Office on campus to ensure that it meets the admission requirements. You will be contacted if necessary.
      • Academic evaluation. If your application has succesfully passed the previous stage, it will be forwarded to the Academic Committee of the Ph.D. program for review. You will be notified of the Committee's decision by certified mail sent to the postal address provided in your application.

      This process may take up to one-two months. You will be notified of the Committee’s resolution by e-mail.

      I have been admitted. When must I submit my enrollment form?

      In you are admitted to a Ph.D. program, you have to submit your online application for enrollment in the periods set by the university to that effect, according to the instructions indicated in your letter of admission, our website or the Enrollment section of this FAQ, including the payment of tuition fees. If you do not submit your enrollment for the academic year for which you were admitted, your admission will be cancelled.

      Doctoral training scholarships. Exemptions

      Campus Getafe

      What types of financial aid programs can I apply for?

      There is a wide variety of financial aid programs for doctoral training that cover partial or total tuition fees and, in some cases, allow uc3m to formally hire the Ph.D. student as a training researcher.

      Who are the awarding bodies?

      Here is a list of the most common scholarship and financial aid programs:

         - Formación de Investigadores del Ministerio de Innovación / Researchers Training by Ministerio de Innovación (formerly known as FPI scholarships)
         - Formación de Profesorado Universitario del Ministerio de Educación / University Faculty Training by Ministerio de Educación (formerly known as FPU scholarships)
         - Researchers Training by Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, awarded by the institution departments
         - Ph.D. Scholarships by La Caixa
         - Ph.D. Scholarships by Comunidades Autónomas (Autonomous Regions of Spain)
         - Scholarships by Fundación Carolina (for Latin American students)
         

      Further information:  Doctoral Training Scholarships


      When and how can I apply for these?

      Each granting body has its own application and awarding periods. It is strongly recommended to apply first for your Ph.D. program of choice at uc3m in all cases, as most of these institutions require proof of admission (or application for admission) to a Ph.D.

       

      Do I have to be admitted to a Ph.D. in order to apply for admission?

      It is not required in most cases, but, as pointed out previously, you must have at least submitted your application for admission in order to be eligible (check the awarding institution’s specific terms). Only if you are eventually granted the scholarship or financial aid will it be required to be admitted and enrolled on the program in order to accept the aid and be hired as a training researcher at uc3m.

       

      I received a scholarship or financial aid. Do I have to notify uc3m?

      Yes. As a recipient of any financial aids, it is recommended to notify the university for these to be applied upon enrollment. If your scholarship status is not registered in your self-enrollment application, please contact the Doctoral School Office, either in person or by e-mail at admisiondoctorado@uc3m.es

       

      Where will I undertake my Ph.D. research work?

      Your research and teaching activities (when applicable) will be carried out at the department or Institute stated in your contract within the framework of your Ph.D. program under the supervision of the tutor and advisor(s) appointed by the Academic Committee.


      Who is in charge of managing my scholarship or financial aid program?

      Granting institutions usually delegate on uc3m the management of these aids according to the terms originally established by those and our own rules and regulations.

       

      Who is to evaluate the progress and outcomes of my research work?

      All our Ph.D. students must submit the progress of their research work for evaluation by the Academic Committee of their Ph.D. program. Recipients of any financial aid program must also provide this information to the granting body.

       

      Are there any other tuition fees exemptions?

      Yes. As a new student, if you are eligible for any of the following exemptions or discounts recognized by the Spanish administration, you must submit certified copies of the pertinent documents to the Postgraduate Office on campus before enrollment proceedings so that these exemptions apply upon enrollment.

      • Large Family status: Certified copy of the Large Family status card (general or special)
      • Disability: Certified copy of Disability Identification card (minimum 33% disability)
      • Other: Certified copy of proof of exemption for victims of terrorist attacks (including their spouses and children) or children of civil and military servants who perished in the line of duty.

      These documents must be valid for the academic year for which the exemption is requested.

      Enrollment

      How to enroll

      Our Ph.D. Management platform allows to process your enrollment online. To access the platform, enter your UC3M username and password.

      When to enroll               

      New students can choose the start date of the Ph.D. studies. Enrollment period varies accordingly:

      Students starting first semester:

      • Enrollment period: July 24 through 30 and September 1st through 30th (23:59 h., Peninsular Spanish time)
      • Start date of Ph.D. training: November 15 

      Students starting second semester*:

      • Enrollment period: March 1st through 30th (23:59 h., Peninsular Spanish time)
      • Start date of Ph.D. training: March 30

      *In these cases, students benefit from a reduced tuition fee, applicable only for first-year enrollment.

      Your start date will determine the length of your Ph.D. training period.

      As a continuing student, the enrollment period is September 1st through 30th (23:59 h., Peninsular Spanish time) of each academic year.

      What modules should I register on my application?

      You must select the following modules of your enrollment application:

      • Ph.D. Monitoring for your doctoral training year. 

      Required in all cases. It will be registered by default in your application. 

      • Complementary credits.

      Only applicable if the Academic Committee of your program established these credits as obligatory in its admission resolution, in which case you have been properly notified in your admission letter. These credits will be registered by default in your application.

      Other activities of your doctoral training may not require enrollment. If so, our Doctoral School Office is in charge of the registration process:

      • Specific training: Activities included in the curriculum of your Ph.D. program. 
      • Research Skills training: Only required for students of some Ph.D. programs.  

      What are the costs of tuition fees?

      These are the tuition fees for all your Ph.D. training:

      1. Academic fees

      Academic monitoring of Ph.D. training year.  

      • Ordinary fee (full-time, starting first semester): 390 €.
      • Reduced fee* (full-time, starting second semester): 234 €.
      • Reduced fee (part-time, starting first or second semester): 234 €.

                  *Full fees will apply in subsequent years.

      Training credits

      • Complementary training (only for students who are required to take these credits as established in their resolution of admission). If the subjects are the same as subjects from an official degree, the price will be the same as in the original degree. The prices range from € 45,02 to € 80-150 €, depending on the master's program and the doctoral year of enrollment (first, second or subsequent).
      • Research Skills training courses. 45,02 € per credit. Credits from other institutions also require an enrollment at UC3M . A reduced 25% fee will apply in these cases (11,25 € per credit).

      Thesis defense. 143,15 €

      Ph.D. Degree Certificate. 229,86 €

      1. Administrative fees
      • Registrar’s Office expenses. 6,11 €
      • Academic record proceedings (first-year students only). 27,54 €
      1. School insurance. 1, 12 €. Applicable to Spanish or international students (legal residents) under 28 years of age.

      Students who fail to fulfill the payment of these fees will be dismissed from the Ph.D. program.

      Further information:  Tuition fees

      How do I validate my first-year enrollment?

      Upon completion and payment of your enrollment, the Doctoral School will get in touch with you and set an appointment to provide the original documents to have your enrollment validated in compliance with the access requirements to Ph.D.

      Documents

      According to your previous studies, the documents to be submitted are listed below: 

      1. If you have taken an official Master's degree at UC3M, you are not required to submit any documents. The Doctoral School will check your records accordingly.

      2. If your access degree for Ph.D. was issued by a University from Spain or a European Union country, or a state of the European Economic Area or Switzerland, it is required to provide the following original documents: 

      • Access degree certificate for Ph.D. (Master's degree or equivalent) or payment receipt of issuance fees.
      • Grades certificate of access degree to Ph.D. (Master's degree or equivalent).

      3. If your access degree for Ph.D. was issued by a University from a country other than the ones indicated above, it is required to provide the following legalized documents:

      • Access degree certificate for Ph.D. (Master's degree or equivalent) or payment receipt of issuance fees.
      • Grades certificate of access degree to Ph.D. (Master's degree or equivalent).

      There are different ways to have your documents legalized. Find which legalization procedure applies in your case:  Legalization of Foreign Degrees

      Please note that the legalization procedure must be carried out from the home country. It is strongly recommended to do it in advance. 

      Original hard copies of the documents must be provided along with their photocopies. The Doctoral School will check both originals and their copies and have them certified. If the degree certificates and documents have an electronic signature or digital certification (with safe verification codes), these will be submitted by e-mail at admisiondoctorado@uc3m.es.

      All documents must be submitted in Spanish, English, French, Italian or Portuguese (certificates and degrees provided in other languages must have attached an official Spanish translation).  

      The submission period will be notified by e-mail within a month after the end of the enrollment period.

      What are my rights and obligations as a uc3m student?

      Please refer to the following documentation issued by the regional authorities and uc3m. All of them apply to Ph.D. candidates at Uc3m.

      • Students Statute of the Region of Madrid (Estatuto del estudiante de la Comunidad de Madrid)
      • uc3m students Rights and Obligations (Carta de los derechos y deberes del estudiante en la uc3m)
      • Rules and Regulations of the Doctoral School at uc3m (Reglamento de la Escuela de Doctorado de la uc3m)
      • Good Practices of the Doctoral School at uc3m (Código de buenas prácticas de la Escuela de Doctorado de la uc3m)

      Additionally, you have access to the university's support services to students and researchers.

      Further information:  Rules and Regulations

      Ph.D. Studies: Monitoring and Development

      Biblioteca María Moliner

      How are my Ph.D. supervisors appointed?

      Ph.D. tutors and advisors are advanced members of the uc3m faculty or other research institutions who serve as mentors of your research work and keep track of your progress. They also facilitate your communication with the Academic Committee of the program.

      Tutors are appointed by the Committee upon your admission. Tutors must hold a Ph.D. degree and have ties with the program, as well as a proven track record in research of at least six years (or proof of equivalent qualifications).

      The Committee will also appoint an advisor within three months from initial enrollment on the program. Thesis advisors must hold a Ph.D. degree and have a proven track record in research of at least six years (or equivalent qualifications), as well as specific research experience in the field of your thesis. Advisors' may be based at any university, center or institute in Spain or abroad. A professor may be appointed as both tutor and advisor of a Ph.D. student.

      The Academic Committee may change these designations throughout your doctoral training period for justified reasons.

      Must I take any other training in addition to my research work?

      Yes. There are three different types of additional training to be taken during your Ph.D.:

      • Complementary training. Maximum: 40 ECTS credits. Applicable only to students whose terms of admission state this training as required. The Academic Committee will determine the credit-based courses or subjects in the admission resolution. As a general rule, this training must be taken during the first year.
      • Specific training. Students are also expected to participate in a number of activities relevant to their field of research: seminars, meetings, conferences, courses, etc. These activities may require prior enrollment at uc3m. Your tutor or advisor will confirm the contents of your specific training program.
      • Research Skills training. Some Ph.D. programs at uc3m require training in research skills focused on abilities common to all disciplines (communication, academic writing, stress management, etc.). These credits can be earned at either uc3m or other institutions and require formal enrollment at uc3m in all cases, as well as the approval of your tutor or advisor.

      How is the progress of my research evaluated?

      The Academic Committee of your program will evaluate the progress of your research project and activity report on an annual basis in the month of June. Grounds for evaluation are to be registered in the following documents:

      • Research Plan. Not to be mistaken for the research proposal submitted when applying for admission. As a new Ph.D. student, you must elaborate an initial Research Plan within the first year of your doctoral training period. This plan will serve as a tracking tool of your project, listing the objectives and methodology of your research as well as a comprehensible timeline stating the periods estimated for the achievement of each goal. It must have attached your tutor or advisor's evaluation report in order to be submitted for assessment to the Academic Committee of your program.

      An annual update of this Plan must be submitted in subsequent years, with the corresponding tutor or advisor’s evaluation report, so that all parties involved in your doctoral training can track and assess your progress.

      • Activity Report. In addition to your Research Plan (initial or updated), it is also required to register any activity relevant to your Ph.D. research: courses, seminars, meetings, conventions, publications, international fellowship programs, etc. Be sure to have attached all certificates and/or work papers as proof of completion.

      In the event of an unfavorable assessment by the Academic Committee, you will be subjected to evaluation again in December.

      TWO CONSECUTIVE UNFAVORABLE ASSESSMENTS (JUNE AND DECEMBER) WILL RESULT IN THE CANCELLATION OF YOUR ENROLLMENT AS A Ph.D. STUDENT

      Can I join an international research visit program?

      Yes. Undertaking a period of research abroad is a requirement for Doctorado Internacional distinction eligibility. Among other requirements, your visit must have a minimum duration of three months; also, the report of activities and outcomes of your research at the host institution must be written and presented in one of the languages used for scientific dissemination in your field of research (different from any of Spain’s official languages). Prior approval by your tutor/advisor and the Academic Committee of your program is required. The Committee will evaluate your visiting research reports and, if approved, submit your candidacy for the Doctorado Internacional distinction to the Doctoral School Board.

      Thesis defense

      Biblioteca Carmen Martin Gaite

      What is a Ph.D. thesis?

      The Ph.D. thesis is the intended outcome of the doctoral training period. The thesis must give account of the student’s scientific work and meet the quality standards established by the Academic Committee of the program. Theses are defended in a public dissertation event, where they are subjected to assessment by an expert committee.

      As a general rule, Ph.D. candidates must have been enrolled on their program for a minimum period of 24 months before initiating thesis defense proceedings.

      I have approval to proceed to the thesis defense. What are the stages of this process?

      Once you get approval for your thesis defense by your tutor, advisor and Academic Committee, a minimum span of 8 weeks (excluding holiday periods) is usually required to go through these stages:

      1. Plagiarism management procedure
      2. Thesis deposit. Three weeks.
      3. Approval of thesis defense and appointment of Thesis Committee by the Dean of Doctoral School. One week.
      4. Defense session logistics. Three weeks.
      5. Thesis defense

      What is the plagiarism management procedure?

      To ensure compliance with the principles established in the Code of Good Practice for Managing Plagiarism of Ph.D. Theses of the Doctoral School, all theses must be subjected to a plagiarism management procedure prior to the authorization of the defense.

      Once the Academic Committee of your Ph.D. program determines that your research period is done and your thesis is ready for deposit, a pdf file of the thesis will be submitted to the Doctoral School to proceed to the plagiarism management.

      The results of this study will be at the disposal of the members of the thesis committee, should they be requested.

      Further information:  Plagiarism management

      What is the thesis deposit?

      The deposit of your thesis enables UC3M professors and scholars of your field to review your work before the defense. The deposit period is 15 days (excluding August), after which all comments and observations by the experts will be reported to the Academic Committee and yourself. 

      Further information:  Thesis deposit

      Who approves the defense?

      Once your thesis has successfully passed both stages, the Academic Committee of the program will elaborate their proposal for thesis defense, providing details of the proposed members of the Thesis Committee on the Authorization of thesis defense and appointment of Thesis Committee. Eligibility for “Doctorado Internacional”, “Doctorado Industrial” or International Cotutelle must be indicated, where applicable.

      This proposal will be submitted for the Dean of the Doctoral School's approval of the thesis defense and the appointment of Thesis Committee members.

      Who can be a member of the Thesis Committee?

      The Thesis Committee consists of three members (President, Secretary, and a spokesperson) and a substitute. All of them must hold a Ph.D. degree and a proven track record in research. In all cases, the Committee will be formed by a majority of members external to the University and to the institutions collaborating with the School or the Ph.D. Program.

      Further information:  Defense session. Appointment of Committee members

      How is the thesis defense organized?

      Once all authorizations are signed, the Thesis Committee’s Secretary will appoint a date for the defense. The Doctoral School Office on campus will be in charge of the logistics of the event (room reservations, technical equipment, etc.) and the travel procedures of the committee members, when applicable.

      Additionally, the Postgraduate Office will submit a digital copy of the thesis to each member of the Thesis Committee at least 15 days prior to the defense session. This file will contain any allegation or comment submitted by the experts during the deposit period.

      Further information:  Defense session. Appointment of Committee members

      Do I have to pay any fees before the defense?

      Yes. The payment of thesis defense fees must be fulfilled before proceeding to defense. Additionally, payment of enrollment fees for the academic year in which the defense takes place must be up to date.

      How is my thesis assessed?

      All Committee members must receive a copy of the thesis 15 days prior to the defense event.

      Once the Ph.D. candidate completes his/her dissertation, the Committee can provide feedback or pose questions. Their global assessment will be given in terms of Fail (No Apto), Pass (Aprobado), Good (Notable) or Excellent (Sobresaliente).

      Theses with an Excellent (Sobresaliente) grade are eligible for the cum laude distinction. The committee members will subsequently cast their votes via separate secret ballot in closed session. Only if all votes are favorable will the committee submit their proposal for the thesis to be awarded the cum laude distinction to the university Chancellor. In this case, each member of the committee will finally cast their vote, anonymously and in a sealed envelope, for the thesis to be considered for the Outstanding Thesis Award by Universidad Carlos III de Madrid.

      How can I apply for my Ph.D. certificate?

      Your application for the official Ph.D. degree certificate and the payment of the corresponding fees is done online.

      Issuance of your certificate may take a few months. Until then, you may apply for a temporary certificate as proof of completion of your Ph.D. studies as of the date of your thesis defense.

      Where is my Ph.D. thesis published?

      Your thesis will be published in e-archivo, the open online repository of Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, and Teseo the Ph.D. database managed by the Ministry of Universities. In the event of partial or temporary restrictions pertaining to the publication of your thesis, you must report them to the university.

      Glossary of terms

      Ph.D. Program. Array of training and activities oriented to the acquisition of abilities required to undertake autonomous research work in the realm of R&D. Each Ph.D. program establishes their own procedures and lines of research for the development of theses within the framework of their respective fields.

      Academic Committee. The coordinator/director of the program and two other Ph.D. members constitute a program's Academic Committee, the body in charge of the various training areas and research progress of the program, as well as the authorization of thesis defense of their Ph.D. candidates.

      Doctoral School. Academic body in charge of the management and coordination of all Ph.D. programs.

      Ph.D. Thesis. Original piece of research carried out by Ph.D. candidates in their field of knowledge. Presented as a written dissertation according to the quality, content and format guidelines set by the Ph.D. program for its public defense.

      Tutor. Supervisor in charge of tracking the training progress of the Ph.D. candidate and serving as a communication link between the researcher and the Academic Committee. Tutors must be attached to uc3m faculty with a proven research track record. Tutors are appointed upon approval of admission by the Academic Committee.

      Thesis advisor. Supervisor in charge of tracking the training progress of the Ph.D. candidate. Advisors are experts in the field of the Ph.D. candidate's research, not necessarily attached to uc3m faculty (if they are, they can also be appointed as tutors). Advisors are appointed within the first three months of the student's Ph.D. training period. A student may have more than one advisor.

      Specific training. Specific activities pertaining to the field of research of each Ph.D., designed to provide students with the knowleddge and opportunity for debate required for the development of their research work: seminars, meetings, conferences/dissertations, international research visits, etc.

      Research Skills training. Training activities oriented to the acquisition of skills common to all disciplines. All students are required to earn at least 6 credits (60 hours) throughout their doctoral training period. Enrollment on these courses is performed separately from their regular doctoral training.

      Complementary training. Maximum 40 ECTS credits. Training that the Academic Committee may deem necessary in their admission resoluction in order to complement the Ph.D. candidate's previous academic background. Enrollment on these credits will be required in addition to the student's regular doctoral training. These credits are usually earned during the first Ph.D. year. 

      Research plan. Document to be drafted within the first six months of Ph.D. training detailing the student’s research project to be subjected to annual evaluation every month of June. It must be approved by the tutor, the thesis advisor and the Academic Committee. This plan must be updated and submitted for review and evaluation purposes on a yearly basis.

      Ph.D. Activity report. A registration account of all training activities pertaining to the Ph.D. student's research. The tutor and thesis advisor must endorse these activities for them to be submitted to the Academic Committee for annual evaluation in June. 

      Student record. Academic details of every Ph.D. student as registered in uc3m databases, including activities and credits completed. This information is to be attached to the thesis in the final stages of defense approval.

      Academic transcript. Official document signed by the Head of Doctoral Studies certifying a student's academic record.

      Monitoring and assessment. Annual process by which the research progress and activities of a Ph.D. candidate are subjected to evaluation by the Academic Committee.

      Written Agreement. Document signed by all parties involved in a thesis research project (Ph.D. student, tutor, advisor/s, and Academic Committee) stating their roles and specific conditions pertaining to confidentiality agreements, copyright or use and distribution of research outcomes, where applicable, as well as conflict resolution procedures.

      Thesis public review. Procedure required to allow the academic community to review the student's thesis and issue comments and observations prior to the defense. The thesis is usually deposited at the university's intranet.

      Thesis defense. Academic event open to the public in which Ph.D. candidates defend their research work before a committee of experts in their field. The defense is followed by a question and answer session led by the defense committee in order for it to give their assessment.

      Defense committee. Committee consisting of three experts with proven track records of research in the field of the thesis, most of which must be based outside uc3m. The committee gives their assessment of the thesis and awards the cum laude distinction and the Outstanding Thesis Award candidacy, where applicable.

    • Itinerary
      Itinerario Estudiante de Doctorado
    • Regulations
    • Quality

      GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT PH.D.

      Implementation Year: 2012-2013

      QUALITY ASSURANCE

      The Academic Committee of the Ph.D. complies with the SGIC-UC3M. It is responsible for the quality analysis of the program and produces the Degree Reports ("Memoria Académica de Titulación").

      QUALITY INDICATORS

      COMPLAINTS AND SUGGESTIONS

  • CONTACT
    Bienvenida Universidad Carlos III de Madrid

    Doctoral School Office | Leganés Campus

    Rey Pastor Building, Office 3.0.B.08
    Avenida de la Universidad, 30
    28911 Leganés (Madrid)

    Contact