Integration of driving simulation technologies for autonomous vehicle research

This project will develop and test a conceptual architecture for linking a driving simulator with emissions and traffic modules for real time evaluation of CAV technologies.
Depending on the student’s academic background, we foresee a programme of research that may include:
• The analysis of the state of the art in driving simulator architecture
• The development of a conceptual framework for an architecture that could incorporate driving simulation, traffic simulation and emissions models
• Development a low cost open systems simulator
• Demonstration of the utility of the simulator for research into connected and autonomous vehicles
• Drawing out the implications of research findings for future system development

About the Host Centre:
Our research in Mobility & Transport works across our faculties and focuses on the design and engineering of future transport systems, including the growing influence of the internet and connectivity. The focus is on inclusive, sustainable and safe transport integrating the strongest research elements in design and engineering. The Centre currently has around 50 staff and 70 PhD students. The studentship would be based at Horiba MIRA who co-support this programme.

Candidate specification:
Successful applicants will have:
• A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 60% mark in the Project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average,or
• A Masters Degree in a relevant subject area will be considered as an equivalent. The Masters must have been attained with overall marks at merit level (60%). In addition, the dissertation or equivalent element in the Masters must also have been attained with a mark at merit level (60%).
• The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within a prescribed period of study
• Language proficiency (IELTS overall minimum score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component).

Additional items for the candidate specification:
• Enthusiasm and aptitude for driving simulator development and experimental scenarios (E-Prime)
• A successful background in computer systems with an emphasis on virtual reality systems
• A wish to publish academic research in the highest quality journals
• An understanding of the ethics of experimentation with human participants

Application Procedure:
Application information can be found in our how to apply section. Before completing the application please contact Professor Andrew Parkes [Email Address Removed] and cc’ing [Email Address Removed]) for an initial informal discussion about the opportunity.

Start date: September 2017

Duration of study: Full-Time – three years six months fixed term

Application deadline date: This opportunity will only remain open until a suitable candidate is identified- early application is therefore advised. Standard University research application closing dates apply http://www.coventry.ac.uk/research/research-students/application-dates/

Interview Dates: TBC

Enquiries may be addressed to:
Andrew Parkes
[Email Address Removed]
024 7765 8750