Research: Exploring Knowledge Horizons
The Research program centres on Exploring Knowledge Horizons. To do so we have initiated a progressive research agenda for PhD and MPhil students to conduct world-class research through the academy.
BMW Group and QUT Design have forged a focused design agenda. We seek to discover new knowledge by exploring areas that intersect with BMW Group and QUT’s interest. This includes the latest knowledge concerning design thinking and expertise, human-robot interactions, and visionary human-machine interfaces. This may also verge into topics that include a variety of emerging technologies in industry 4.0 contexts such as VR/ AR, artificial intelligence, automation, robotics, big data, human-machine-robot interactions and related fields. More detailed information will be provided regarding specific research projects as they are launched.
As researchers embedded within the BMW Group + QUT Design Academy you will be working with the academy team and BMW Group on forging and initiating cutting-edge research projects. Research students are able to apply through QUT’s research application process and must meet eligible entry requirements.
The BMW Group + QUT Design Academy will be offering PhD and MPhil positions with scholarships in the near future. The research will be initiated at the BMW Group + QUT Design Academy in Brisbane, with a view to closely liaise with and travel to BMW Group in Germany for a period of time as part of the research study.
Research Project PhD and MPhil Scholarships
It is exciting to announce that we have initiated three research project agendas through the Academy. The first is focused on the role of Industrial Design expertise in multinational corporates. This stream explores the ways in which Industrial Designers, Creative Processes and Design Thinking have been assimilated by multinational corporate leaders (like BMW Group) to foster positive impacts through the application of emerging technologies.
The second is focused on advances in Human-Robot Interfaces for advanced manufacturing. This research stream evaluates the latest advances in human-robot interfaces within logistics and factory applications to determine best-practice principles for future development. The third hones in on the future of human-machine interfaces for premium automobiles in the context of autonomous driving and emerging technologies. We intend to explore how future premium automobiles interfaces and interior design will need to utilise emerging technologies to suit an autonomous driving scenario.
Who Are We Seeking?
We are seeking high-calibre researchers to join the BMW Group + QUT Design Academy who can demonstrate an outstanding track-record in their undergraduate degree - or an equivalent role in their professional careers. Although we prefer candidates with a background in industrial design, product design, interaction design, games design or user experience design this is not a requirement. We also welcome candidates from information technology, mechatronics, robotics, computer science, psychology and related fields.
We look for certain attributes in applicants including a professional attitude, proven excellence in their respective field of study, independent work ethic, an inquisitive and analytical mindset, and a passion to uncover original contributions to a well defined research problem.
We also seek particular skillsets including strong performance across design, design research (qualitative, quantitative or mixed), a significant understanding of rigorous research methodologies, and an emerging track-record of publications and academic outputs. Accomplished skills across communication (written and verbal), visual presentation and 3D CAD are expected. It is preferred to demonstrate high-end knowledge in 3D CAD packages (SolidWorks, Fusion360 or similar), Adobe Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, XD). It is also favourable to have knowledge of Unreal Engine, Substance Painter Pro, and coding / programming skills.
Applications
Applications will be submitted through the QUT Research portal. If you would like to read more about the research programs including details and eligible entry requirements follow the link to discover more about PhD and MPhil degrees.
There are several steps for the application process but the key aspects to consider include entry requirements, research proposal and supporting documentation.
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