Electrical Engineering PH.D

EE Ph.D. Concentrations

• The EE Ph.D. degree is comprised of three separate concentration areas:

  • Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Computer and Digital Design

    This concentration focuses on the intersection of electrical engineering, computer science, and data-driven technologies. It emphasizes the development of intelligent systems, algorithms, and hardware architectures that enable advanced computing and decision-making capabilities.

    Key Areas of Focus:

    • Machine Learning (ML):
      • Development of algorithms for supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning.
      • Applications in computer vision, natural language processing, robotics, and data analytics.
      • Optimization techniques for large-scale data processing and model training.
    • Artificial Intelligence (AI):
      • Design of AI systems for autonomous decision-making, pattern recognition, and predictive modeling.
      • Ethical AI, explainable AI, and AI safety.
      • Integration of AI with hardware systems for real-time applications.
    • Computer and Digital Design:
      • Design and optimization of digital systems, including CPUs, GPUs, and FPGAs.
      • Hardware-software co-design for efficient computation.
      • Embedded systems design and IoT (Internet of Things) applications.
      • Advanced topics in computer architecture, VLSI (Very Large-Scale Integration), and system-on-chip (SoC) design.

    Research Applications:

    • Autonomous vehicle and drone applications.
    • Smart healthcare systems and wearable devices.
    • High-performance computing and cloud infrastructure.
    • Cybersecurity and secure hardware design.

  • Microelectronics, Nanotechnology, and Networks

    This concentration delves into the design, fabrication, and application of micro- and nano-scale devices, as well as the development of communication networks that enable seamless connectivity.

    Key Areas of Focus:

    • Microelectronics:
      • Design and fabrication of semiconductor devices, such as transistors, diodes, and sensors.
      • Analog and mixed-signal circuit design.
      • MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) and NEMS (Nano-Electro-Mechanical Systems).
    • Nanotechnology:
      • Exploration of nanomaterials and their applications in electronics, photonics, and energy systems.
      • Quantum dots, nanowires, and 2D materials (e.g., graphene, transition metal dichalcogenides).
      • Nanofabrication techniques, including lithography and self-assembly.
    • Networks:
      • Design and optimization of wired and wireless communication networks.
      • 5G/6G networks, IoT connectivity, and network security.
      • Network protocols, routing algorithms, and performance analysis.

    Research Applications:

    • Next-generation semiconductor devices and integrated circuits.
    • Quantum computing and spintronics.
    • Biomedical devices and sensors.
    • Smart cities and connected infrastructure.

  • Smart Energy, Power, and Mobility Systems

    This concentration addresses the challenges of modern energy systems, power electronics, and sustainable mobility solutions. It focuses on developing technologies for efficient energy generation, distribution, and utilization, as well as advancing electric and autonomous transportation systems.

    Key Areas of Focus:

    • Smart Energy Systems:
      • Renewable energy integration (solar, wind, and hydro).
      • Smart grids and microgrids for efficient energy distribution.
      • Energy storage technologies, including batteries and supercapacitors.
      • IoT
    • Power Systems:
      • Power electronics and motor drives.
      • High-voltage systems and fault analysis.
      • Control systems for power generation and distribution.
    • Mobility Systems:
      • Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs).
      • Autonomous vehicle technologies, including perception, planning, and control systems.
      • Charging infrastructure and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies.

    Research Applications:

    • Grid modernization and energy management systems.
    • Sustainable transportation and urban mobility solutions.
    • Energy-efficient buildings and industrial systems.
    • Integration of renewable energy with transportation networks.