Combined study

4 years

prof. Ing. Marcela Karmazínová, CSc.

Chairman :
prof. Ing. Miroslav Vořechovský, Ph.D.
Vice-chairman :
prof. Ing. David Lehký, Ph.D.
Councillor internal :
doc. Mgr. Irena Hinterleitner, Ph.D.
doc. Ing. Milan Šmak, Ph.D.
prof. Dr.techn. Ing. Michal Varaus
doc. Ing. Otto Plášek, Ph.D.
doc. Ing. Lumír Miča, Ph.D.
prof. Ing. Pavel Schmid, Ph.D.
doc. Ing. Radim Nečas, Ph.D.
doc. Ing. Hana Šimonová, Ph.D.
Councillor external :
doc. Ing. Jaroslav Navrátil, CSc.
Ing. Mojmír Nejezchleb

The aim of the doctoral study program Structures and Traffic Structures is to provide excellent graduates with a specialized university degree and scientific training in selected current fields of study, particularly in the field of mechanics of load-bearing building structures, concrete, masonry, composite, metal, wood, geotechnics, building testing and diagnostics of load-bearing building structures as well as in the areas of road construction and railway structures and constructions. The study is focused on complex scientific preparation, methodology of independent scientific work and on the development of knowledge in the field of the theory of load-bearing structures, engineering structures and transport structures, with the basic disciplines presented areas of mechanics of load-bearing structures of engineering and transport structures. . The scientific preparation in this study program is based on mastering the initial theoretical disciplines of the science-based basis and theoretical and scientific disciplines of the relevant focus.
The aim of the study is also the involvement of students in the preparation and solution of national and international scientific research projects, presentation of achieved results at national and international level and their publication in professional and scientific foreign and domestic journals as well as at scientific and professional conferences. During his / her studies, the student gains not only new theoretical knowledge, but also own experience from experimental activities and necessary practical knowledge also thanks to close cooperation with construction practice in the field of designing and designing and realization of load-bearing building structures as well as to a foreign university or research institution, or work placements at another professional workplace.

Graduates of the doctoral study program Structural and Transport Engineering will be prepared for creative activities in the field of science, research, development and innovation, both individually and in teams at national and international level. During his / her doctoral program he / she acquires and acquires deep knowledge of theoretical and professional disciplines, acquires not only new theoretical knowledge but also new own experience and acquires the necessary habits for independent scientific research and creative activities in research and development. in addressing current scientific issues and issues arising from practice requirements. Upon successful completion of the highest level of university studies in the doctoral study program Construction and Traffic Structures, the graduate will be able to deepen the knowledge and level of knowledge in the field and successfully use knowledge and scientific approaches in solving theoretical and practical tasks.
Scientific preparation is focused on the following basic specializations: Mechanics of load-bearing structures; Concrete and masonry structures; Metal, wood and composite structures; Geotechnics; Experimental technology and testing; Roads; Railway structures and constructions. Graduates can be employed mainly in research and development workplaces, in designing organizations, in state administration bodies, and the experience gained during their teaching experience within the doctoral study program can be applied also in education in the academic sphere or in other educational or research institutions. Completion of the doctoral study program is also a necessary precondition for possible further career and professional academic growth of the graduate.

Doctoral degree programs are primarily aimed at graduate employment in science and research, which is, among other things, anchored in the objectives of study, learning outcomes and graduate profile. This implies the employment of graduates especially in organizations, institutions and companies that are engaged in research and development activities. These are mainly research organizations whose main activity is research and development, but also construction practice entities, ie companies, where research and development is one of the part of the whole spectrum of activities in addition to commonly realized activities such as production and implementation. A number of implementing companies are currently creating support for their own research and development as they can strengthen their position, competitiveness and marketability in a highly competitive environment. In this regard, there is a growing demand for younger generation professionals with independent creative scientific work, knowledge and insight into new modern trends not only in their expertise but also in related expertise and activities such as PC modeling, simulation, experimental methods and procedures. Last but not least, the graduate has the opportunity to work in the academic sphere, which involves combining scientific research and educational activities. Graduates can thus find employment especially in research organizations and construction practice companies in the context of related development and innovation activities, in educational institutions, especially in the university sphere, which provides them with the possibility of further personal and career development and professional academic growth. Moreover, experience shows that graduates of doctoral study programs are very successful in organizations of the mentioned types not only in the Czech Republic but also abroad, which is also true for graduates in the field of Construction and Transport Structures. Completion of the doctoral study program gives graduates very good prerequisites for employment in, for example, design organizations or state administration in higher professional and managerial positions.

Fulfillment of the subjects of the individual study plan, successful completion of the state doctoral examination, foreign experience, relevant creative activity and successful defense of the dissertation.

The rules and conditions for the creation of study plans of study programs carried out at the Faculty of Civil Engineering of the BUT define:
Rules of BUT study programs (www.vutbr.cz/uredni-deska/vnitrni-predpisy-a-dokumenty), which according to Article 1, paragraph 1, point:
c) defines the processes of creation, approval and changes of study program proposals before their submission for accreditation to the National Accreditation Office for Higher Education,
d) lays down the formal requirements for study programs and courses,
e) defines the obligations of study program and subject guarantors,
f) defines the standards of study programs at BUT,
g) defines the principles of quality assurance of study programs.
Study and Examination Regulations of the Brno University of Technology (www.vutbr.cz/uredni-deska/international-details-and-documents)
Details of the conditions for study at the Faculty of Civil Engineering of the BUT are governed by the Dean's Directive )
The PhD student studies according to an individual study plan, which is elaborated by the supervisor in cooperation with the PhD student. The individual study plan is binding for the doctoral student. It specifies all duties set in accordance with the BUT Study and Examination Regulations that a doctoral student must fulfill in order to successfully complete his / her studies.
During the first three semesters, the doctoral student consists of compulsory, compulsorily elective or at the same time, it is intensively engaged in its own study and analysis of knowledge in the field determined by the topic of the dissertation and continuous publication of the knowledge and results obtained in this way. In the following semesters, the doctoral student focuses more on research and development related to the topic of the dissertation, on the publication of the results of his / her creative work and on his / her own dissertation. By the end of the fifth semester, the doctoral student has passed the state doctoral examination. The doctoral student is also involved in pedagogical activities, which is a part of his scientific preparation.
The individual study plan includes scientific outputs in individual years:
- regular publishing activity (Juniorstav and similar),
- participation in scientific conferences at home and abroad,
- for defense of DZP it is necessary to publish - min. 2x Scopus or 1x WOS with impact factor.

At the Faculty of Civil Engineering, BUT, barrier-free access to all teaching rooms is currently provided. However, students must be physically fit to be qualified as a civil engineer. In practically oriented laboratory teaching, they must be able to operate measuring instruments and similar laboratory equipment independently without endangering themselves or their surroundings.
BUT provides support to students with specific needs, for details see Guideline 11/2017 (www.vutbr.cz/uredni-deska/international-documents-and-documents/-d141841/uplne-zneni-smernice-c-11- 2017-p147550).
In order to promote equal access to higher education, BUT incorporates the Alfons Advisory Center, part of the BUT Institute of Lifelong Learning, to provide guidance and support services to applicants and students with specific educational needs. Specific educational needs include learning disabilities, physical and sensory disabilities, chronic somatic illness, autistic spectrum disorders, impaired communication skills and mental illness (alfons.vutbr.cz/o-nas).
Students are provided with information concerning the accessibility of study programs with respect to the specific needs of the applicant, information about the architectural accessibility of individual faculties and university parts, about accommodation at the BUT dormitory, about the possibilities of adapting the admission procedure and adapting the study itself. Other services of the Center for Students with Special Educational Needs also include interpreting and rewriting services, or assistance services - guiding, spatial orientation, in order to enable these students to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in the same way as other students. This is done through the so-called adaptation of study, ie by appropriate adjustment of the study regime, which cannot be understood as a simplification of the content of study or relief of study obligations.

The doctoral study program Construction and Traffic Structures is a follow-up to the follow-up Master's study program Civil Engineering, in particular the study field Construction and Traffic Structures, respectively. as well as other fields of study and nursing master's degree programs. After accreditation of the follow-up master's study program Civil Engineering - Structures and Traffic Constructions for this program.

1. round (applications submitted from 01.04.2025 to 31.07.2025)

1. Analysis of long-term behavior of concrete structures

   The aim of the work is an analysis of long-term behavior of concrete structures (bridges, buildings, tanks, etc.). Specification of methods for monitoring, specification of statical calculations , comparison of measured and calculated values.

   Tutor: Zich Miloš, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

2. Application of Artificial Intelligence Methods for Solving Civil Engineering Problems

   The topic is focused on the application of artificial intelligence methods such as artificial neural networks, genetic algorithms, etc. for solving problems in the field of design and assessment of structures, such as optimization of materials and structures, damage detection, reliability of structures, etc.

   Tutor: Lehký David, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

3. Data measurement using a microcontroller and its analysis by standard and non-standard means through the Python programming environment

   The basic description of test material or construction is the measurement. Relatively inexpensive measurements can be performed using a microcontroller (e.g. Arduino). The important part is the correct evaluation of the obtained data. When evaluating large volumes of data, it is also advisable to use less traditional methods. Measurements may contain long time data. The basic description takes place in the time domain of the band. Important information can also be obtained in the frequency or time-frequency domain. The aim is to process some procedures in Python.

   Tutor: Pazdera Luboš, prof. Ing., CSc.

4. Design of Steel Joints Using Advanced Numerical Modelling

   The topic is focused on numerical modelling of basic structural details of load-bearing structures, especially of joints. The standardisation of the calculation of structural details using FEM will be included in the currently forthcoming standard EN 1993-1-14 Eurocode 3 - Design of steel structures - Part 1-14: Design assisted by finite element analysis. Stress concentrations realistically occur in the connections of steel structures and the elastic FEA calculation leads to a very conservative design compared to traditional standard procedures. In the design numerical model, the elastic-plastic behaviour of the material is usually adopted and the assessment of the individual parts of the details is limited by a limiting plastic strain of 5% for all types of structures. The aim of the dissertation is to analyse in detail the influence and safety of the limiting plastic strain for shell numerical models of a selected type of steel joints (e.g. thin-walled members or high-strength steel members) and to recommend parameters for numerical design models.

   The student will build on the supervisor's ongoing research and be involved in the Laboratory of Numerical Structural Design project sponsored by IDEA StatiCa, s.r.o.

   Tutor: Vild Martin, Ing., Ph.D.

5. Discrete Modeling of Fatigue of Concrete and Reinforced Concrete under Cyclic Loading

   Analytical and mainly numerical modeling of fatigue degradation with focus on thermodynamically consistent time-dependent constitutive models, and interaction with temperature. Use of data-driven models.

   Tutor: Vořechovský Miroslav, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

6. Energy-Based Multiscale Modeling of Fatigue in Concrete and Reinforced Concrete under Cyclic Loading

   Analytical and especially numerical modeling of fatigue failure in concrete at multiple levels of model resolution and the transfer between models, taking into account statistical aspects, loading rate, and temperature. Utilization of data-driven models.

   Tutor: Vořechovský Miroslav, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

7. Optimization and Algorithmization in the Design of Specific Structural Details

   The topic primarily focuses on the development and implementation of advanced optimization methods in the design of mass-produced structural details. The core of the topic is the search for robust and effective algorithms that, while maintaining the constraints ensuring the safety and serviceability of structures, enable the optimization of specified structural details. Such algorithms should contribute to reducing financial costs for both the contractor and the customer while minimizing negative environmental impacts. The research will examine in detail the issues related to traditional optimization methods — including metaheuristics as well as their integration with modern approaches, particularly machine learning. A key objective will be to assess the extent to which machine learning techniques, such as reinforcement learning or deep learning, can be employed for adaptive tuning and enhancement of optimization algorithms, especially when addressing combinatorially challenging problems with discrete design variables, as well as for the actual design of structural details. Overall, the topic aims to develop an innovative approach that not only improves the computational performance and robustness of optimization methods, but also opens up opportunities for their further evolution through the integration of machine learning. This interdisciplinary approach is highly relevant from both a theoretical perspective and for practical application in specialized companies engaged in the design of building structures.

   Tutor: Hokeš Filip, Ing., Ph.D.

8. Reliable and Economic Composite Structural Members, Components and Systems on the Base of Steel Combined with Advanced Materials on the Base of Concrete

   Theoretical and experimental analysis of the resistance of composite structural members/parts/systems composed of steel in combination with advanced materials on the base of concrete, which give qualitatively better utility properties (strength and in this connection load-carrying capacity, but also stiffness, fire resistance atc.), and together also with applying advanced efficient technologies, will mainly direct towards increasing their reliability and economy. Theoretical solutions will be arised from the analytical methods and numerical modelling verified by the results of experimental analyses.

   Tutor: Karmazínová Marcela, prof. Ing., CSc.

9. Selected Problems in Traffic Acoustics

   The topic includes the solution of a group of selected problems from the field of acoustics in the environment of rail transport. The first includes the application of the CNOSSOS-EU methodology and the validation of noise from rail transport in the processing of mathematical models in the solution of reducing harmful noise. The second includes methods and procedures for reducing environmental noise in urban agglomerations from tram and train traffic. The third is oriented to the influence of weather conditions on the propagation of sound waves from traffic in the external environment. The next circuit is focused on selected problems of aero-acoustics and aerodynamics of train sets at speeds higher than 160 km/h. An analysis of the effects of the passage of the train set on passengers, luggage, etc. on the platform, as well as the effects on buildings and structures near the track, etc. is assumed.

   Tutor: Smutný Jaroslav, prof. Ing., Dr.

10. Statistical aspects of Fatigue of Concrete and Reinforced Concrete under Cyclic Loading

    Analysical and mainly numerical modeling of fatigue degradation with focus on statistical aspects, loading rate and temperature. Use of data-driven models.

    Tutor: Vořechovský Miroslav, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

11. The Application of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence Methods in the Process of Design and Construction of Transport Structures

    The topic is focused on the application potential of artificial intelligence leading to increased efficiency and supporting development in the field of transport construction. Communication and collaboration between individual actors from design to management is increasingly needed as the entire construction process becomes more complex. In the European construction industry, it is necessary to achieve an overall increase in efficiency through the innovation of processes, the introduction of new technologies, the wider promotion of industrialization and also the reduction of the energy and material demands of its end products, which are also transport structures. The use of artificial intelligence and machine learning can help improve every part of the construction lifecycle. The topic envisages a gradual focus on all phases of construction, especially on application in the areas of prediction, classification and evaluation of multi-criteria processes. The applicant can choose a topic in agreement with the supervisor and can thus focus on an area close to him, i.e. planning, design and projection, as well as on the construction and maintenance process, etc.

    Tutor: Smutný Jaroslav, prof. Ing., Dr.

12. The Autonomous Diagnosis of Transport Structures Including Related Processes

    The topic includes the development and application of new procedures in the field of data collection on transport structures and buildings, including their transport characteristics. The topic is focused on different modes of transport, road, rail, air, water, special or more modes at the same time. Orientation to transport relations, to the capacity and occupancy of specific transport routes, to the speed of transport or speed of travel or delay, to the occupancy of means of transport or to parking and parking of means of transport, or to tariff policy and other motivating factors is assumed. The topic assumes an orientation both on the methods of automatic data collection using detectors and on the use of advanced methods of mathematical analysis, including methods of machine learning and artificial intelligence.

    Tutor: Smutný Jaroslav, prof. Ing., Dr.

13. The Digital Twin Method as a Basis for Monitoring and Analysis of a Railway Line Section for Maintenance Management

    The topic includes the application and development of a method for evaluating the reliability and durability of railway structures using the so-called digital twin. The digital model of the structure, the so-called twin, will allow the simulation of the behaviour of the structure in different technical states in real time based on the measured response at the monitored points. A digital twin is a set of data and information systems that provide integrated handling of these data. It is a virtual image of the real construction that is predictively managed by IT tools. Thus, the digital twin enables the assessment of the condition and behaviour of the structure, or the prediction of the development of safety and reliability. The results of the work will be used in the management and effective planning of maintenance of railway structures. The digital twin will combine three different technologies, advanced simulation models of railway structures, selected artificial intelligence and machine learning methods, so-called "deep learning" as well as the use and development of modern monitoring systems using smart sensors and filtering techniques.

    Tutor: Smutný Jaroslav, prof. Ing., Dr.

14. The Research of Static and Dynamic Behavior of Railway Lines

    The theme is focused on study of static and dynamic behaviour of railway lines. The theme includes railway superstructure and railway subbase. The topic involves experiment and simulation techniques. Within the simulations, an orientation to the Finite Element Method is assumed, and within the experiment to diagnostics with the use of stationary stations and measuring train sets. The theme also includes application of a suitable modern mathematical apparatus for the evaluation of the railway lines parameters including of artificial intelligence methods use. Part of the topic is the implementation of these procedures in the process of verification of new railway structures, including structures designed for higher operating speeds.

    Tutor: Smutný Jaroslav, prof. Ing., Dr.

15. Utilizing Numerical Methods and AI to Reduce Scatter of Component Method in Steel Joint Design

    Traditional design methods are relatively simple, with a small number of input parameters, making them easy for human understanding and manual calculations. Therefore, they will still be irreplaceable. On the other hand, it has been shown that by using a large number of experiments and validated numerical simulations, the variance of the load resistance estimation can be significantly reduced using formulas determined by machine learning.
    The aim of this dissertation is to determine the load resistance of bolted T-stub in all its variants of steel joints using equations determined by machine learning. The first stage is the collection of suitable experimental data or conducting the student’s own experiments, followed by the development of numerical simulations and their validation. Subsequently, suitable variable parameters are determined, and a large database of numerical simulations is created. The next step is training the neural network and reliability analysis—determining the safety coefficient.
    The student will build on the ongoing research of the supervisor. The student will be involved in the Laboratory of Numerical Structural Design project sponsored by IDEA StatiCa, s.r.o.

    Tutor: Vild Martin, Ing., Ph.D.