Public display of deposited theses

DOCTORAL DEGREE IN APPLIED MATHEMATICS

• BOSCH PADRÓS, MIQUEL: Optogenetic control of force transmission in puripotent epithelia
  
  Author: BOSCH PADRÓS, MIQUEL
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN APPLIED MATHEMATICS
  Department: School of Mathematics and Statistics (FME)
  Mode: Normal
  Deposit date: 16/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 09/01/2026
  Thesis director: ARROYO BALAGUER, MARINO | TREPAT GUIXER, XAVIER
  Thesis abstract: Development requires a combination of three phenomena: increasing the number of cells, specifying their fates and undergoing morphogenesis, which means acquiring the correct shapes. Apical constriction is an important driving mechanism of morphogenesis, occurring within a cell but bridging with tissular scale to acquire and maintain shape. Apical constriction is well studied at the cellular level and conserved through the animal kingdom, but the forces that need to be generated and transmitted through the tissue in the process have never been measured and described. To fill this gap, we used a novel optogenetic tool to induce apical constriction in human pluripotent stem cells, combined with traction force microscopy to measure the mechanical forces involved in the process. With this techniques, we discovered that constriction creates a consistent but small signature in traction maps, compatible with apical contractility increase and volume conservation. In addition, we subjected regions of a monolayer to apical constriction and revealed that the cellular displacement field obeys a screened Poisson equation in two dimensions, which implies the existence of a lengthscale with a rheological origin and allows to obtain the Green's function of the tissue. While deformations can be tailored in space and time, we also find that jamming transitions cannot be engineered through apical contractility, which exposes a strong unjammed nature of this pluripotent epithelium. These insights reveal key rheological aspects of human pluripotent stem cells at timescales relevant for morphogenesis, inaccessible through other techniques. Because this cells are used around the globe to derive organoids and embryo models but are highly understudied mechanically, this work establishes a key building block for future works that require shape or force control in stem cell-derived tissues.
  

DOCTORAL DEGREE IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

• ZHAO, RUI: Improving SAT and Pseudo-Boolean Solving Technology
  
  Author: ZHAO, RUI
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
  Department: Department of Computer Science (CS)
  Mode: Normal
  Deposit date: 15/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 08/01/2026
  Thesis director: OLIVERAS LLUNELL, ALBERT
  Thesis abstract: The Boolean satisfiability (SAT) problem has seen remarkable progress, from early DPLL and resolution methods to the modern Conflict-Driven Clause Learning (CDCL) paradigm. Nevertheless, significant challenges remain. Theoretically "simple" yet structurally complex problems, such as the pigeonhole principle, continue to challenge state-of-the-art SAT solvers, revealing inherent limitations in core algorithms like CDCL. Although CDCL-based Pseudo-Boolean (PB) solving extends SAT with 0-1 linear arithmetic constraints—enabling more natural modeling and offering exponential speedups in theory—its added complexity introduces computational bottlenecks in propagation, conflict analysis, and optimization. These challenges underscore the need for deeper algorithmic insights and innovative techniques to advance SAT and PB solver performance. This thesis addresses these gaps by advancing the core algorithms and implementation techniques underlying modern SAT and PB solvers. It is structured in two parts:• Part I: SAT Solving – We analyze the limitations of CDCL through both theoretical and practical lenses. The contributions are: (i) new insights from analyzing multiple conflicts, aimed at identifying opportunities to enhance CDCL or understanding the fundamental reasons for the failure of this particular idea; (ii) an empirical study on the equivalence between CDCL solvers and resolution, examining how solvers reproduce unsatisfiability proofs and how decision heuristics and resolution proofs interact.• Part II: Pseudo-Boolean Solving – We introduce optimizations in unit propagation and conflict analysis. Propagation is accelerated through a carefully engineered hybrid technique, while enhanced conflict analysis produces some stronger constraints for more effective search pruning.Beyond performance gains, this work offers profound insights into Boolean constraint reasoning, bridging theoretical gaps and opening new research avenues in SAT, PB, and beyond.
  

DOCTORAL DEGREE IN AUTOMATIC CONTROL, ROBOTICS AND VISION

• ARANGO RESTREPO, JUAN PABLO: Recent Engineering Advances for OSL-QIB Nonlinear Systems
  
  Author: ARANGO RESTREPO, JUAN PABLO
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN AUTOMATIC CONTROL, ROBOTICS AND VISION
  Department: Department of Automatic Control (ESAII)
  Mode: Change of supervisor
  Deposit date: 24/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 19/01/2026
  Thesis director: PUIG CAYUELA, VICENÇ | DUVIELLA, ERIC | SEGOVIA CASTILLO, PABLO
  Thesis abstract: This thesis presents a comprehensive framework for the state estimation, control, and observer-based control of nonlinear systems described by One-Sided Lipschitz and Quadratically Inner Bounded (OSL-QIB) properties. The main objective is to exploit the reduced conservatism and modeling flexibility of the OSL-QIB representation to design robust, and computationally efficient algorithms applicable to practical nonlinear processes affected by uncertainties, noise, and unknown inputs.The first part of the work focuses on observer design. Several estimation schemes are developed, including Luenberger-like observers and Unknown Input Observers (UIO) for OSL-QIB systems, extended later to the Linear Parameter-Varying (LPV) OSL-QIB framework. These LPV observers preserve the OSL-QIB structure while explicitly accounting for parameter variations, leading to improved convergence and robustness over conventional formulations. All observer designs are derived through LMI-based synthesis conditions, guaranteeing exponential stability and robustness to noise and modeling errors. Their effectiveness is validated through nonlinear benchmarks such as chemical reactors, flexible robotic systems, and open-channel irrigation networks.The second major contribution addresses the control design for OSL-QIB and LPV OSL-QIB systems. Two complementary strategies are proposed: a state-feedback controller with integral action for accurate reference tracking and disturbance rejection, and a Nonlinear Model Predictive Control (NMPC) formulation entirely expressed as LMI constraints. This LMI-based NMPC introduces Lyapunov stability inequalities into the optimization problem, ensuring convexity, guaranteed feasibility, and improved transient performance compared to standard NMPC approaches.Finally, the thesis integrates the estimation and control frameworks into observer-based control (OBC) structures. Two unified schemes are proposed: an OBC for noisy OSL-QIB systems and an Unknown Input Observer-Based Predictive Controller (UIOBPC) for LPV OSL-QIB systems. Both rely on a separation principle ensuring joint stability and robustness. Simulation results on the Corning Channel benchmark confirm the effectiveness of the proposed methods in achieving precise tracking, strong disturbance rejection, and resilience to unknown inputs.Overall, the thesis establishes a unified, convex, and practically implementable framework for the estimation and control of nonlinear and LPV OSL-QIB systems, narowing the gap between theoretical developments with engineering applications.
  
• CHEN, MINGRUI: State of Charge Estimation for Metal Hydride Storage Tanks
  
  Author: CHEN, MINGRUI
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN AUTOMATIC CONTROL, ROBOTICS AND VISION
  Department: Department of Automatic Control (ESAII)
  Mode: Normal
  Deposit date: 17/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 12/01/2026
  Thesis director: COSTA CASTELLO, RAMON | NA, JING
  Thesis abstract: The growing global energy demand and the urgent need for sustainability have highlighted hydrogen as a clean energy carrier. Among various storage methods, metal hydride (MH) tanks are promising due to their high volumetric density, safety, and reversible absorption/desorption properties. However, complex thermodynamics, kinetic hysteresis, and unobservable internal states make accurate real-time estimation of the state of charge (SOC) challenging. Reliable SOC estimation is essential for efficient operation, safety, and integration with renewable systems.This thesis applies nonlinear observer theory to estimate the SOC of MH tanks. A comprehensive physical model is first developed based on mass and energy balances and reformulated into 3D and reduced 2D state-space models, including a modified version accounting for pipeline effects. Parameter identifiability and sensitivity analyses are performed to ensure model reliability, followed by parameter calibration using experimental data and optimization techniques such as particle swarm and multi-objective optimization.Several nonlinear observers are then designed for real-time SOC estimation. These include a Luenberger-like observer, a neural network-based inversion estimator for reduced computation, and switched nonlinear observers addressing the mode-dependent behavior of MH tanks. Stability and convergence are guaranteed through differential detectability and contraction theory.Numerical simulations and experiments on commercial MH tanks demonstrate that the proposed models and observers provide accurate, robust, and computationally efficient SOC estimation, offering a practical foundation for intelligent hydrogen storage management.
  
• CHICO VILLEGAS, JOSÉ PASCUAL: Técnicas Avanzadas de Control Aplicadas a Convertidores de Potencia
  
  Author: CHICO VILLEGAS, JOSÉ PASCUAL
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN AUTOMATIC CONTROL, ROBOTICS AND VISION
  Department: Department of Automatic Control (ESAII)
  Mode: Normal
  Deposit date: 19/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 14/01/2026
  Thesis director: GUZMAN SOLA, RAMON | GARCIA DE VICUÑA MUÑOZ DE LA NAVA, JOSE LUIS
  Thesis abstract: This doctoral thesis focuses on the control of two-level three-phase power converters and is structured around two main lines of research, with a third currently under development. First, a novel control technique is proposed, based on a nonlinear transformation combined with first-order sliding mode control. This transformation enables exact decoupling between control loops and extends the converter’s control range, improving dynamic performance and robustness against disturbances when compared to existing sliding mode control techniques implemented in the abc reference frame. The proposed strategy has been successfully applied to three representative two-level three-phase converters: a unity power factor rectifier, an active power filter, and an inverter. Second, a continuous model predictive control approach is developed for a three-phase inverter with an LCL output filter. In this case, constraints are introduced directly into the cost function to limit the injected current, thus ensuring compliance with the physical limitations of the system while maintaining dynamic behavior in accordance with the design specifications. Finally, a third line of research focuses on the design of a controller for a unity power factor rectifier using a single-loop control structure that avoids the conventional hierarchical approach. This proposal employs a linearized model and capacitor current feedback from the output filter to improve control performance. This allows for a simpler implementation without compromising system stability or accuracy. The control strategies presented in this thesis have been validated through simulation, and some have also been experimentally tested, demonstrating their applicability in real-world scenarios.
  

DOCTORAL DEGREE IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT

• TORRES SOTO, JOSE LUIS: Talent Retention practices in Spanish IT SMEs
  
  Author: TORRES SOTO, JOSE LUIS
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT
  Department: Department of Management (OE)
  Mode: Normal
  Deposit date: 19/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 14/01/2026
  Thesis director: GALLARDO GALLARDO, EVA | FERNANDEZ ALARCON, VICENÇ
  Thesis abstract: Context: Hiring and retaining the best employees is one of the most important business activities for keeping a sustainable advantage for companies over time. Besides, these business activities are more crucial in knowledge-intensive industries, such as IT, where the employee’s knowledge, skills and attitudes define the company's real ability to adapt and compete in the existing markets. This Ph.D. thesis explores the existing Talent Retention challenges faced by IT SMEs in Spain, proposing a framework to help companies in the industry to cope with this relevant challenge.Purpose: to help in the advancement of the understanding of the Talent Management (TM) field by identifying Talent Retention practices adopted by a cohort of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the Information Technology (IT) industry SMEs in Spain. Challenges in TM are higher for companies of this kind as they face higher constraints than multinational enterprises (MNEs), and their success is highly tied to their people.Method: the research uses an inductive approach based on semi-structured interviews. A list of companies was obtained from a business directory by selecting those candidates that fall into the category of SMEs, their activity is linked to software development and are located in the Barcelona area. After curating the list, representatives were contacted, and we held semi-structured interviews with them until we reached sample saturation. Data was then coded and analysed.Results: we identified a set of practices that could be translated into a framework of four blocks that may help IT companies set a Talent Retention agenda and help them remain competitive in the current talent competition scenario.Conclusions / Implications: the proposed framework aims to help companies in this competitive industry to perform better Talent Retention decisions thus help them to survive and grow in a very competitive environment.Originality: this dissertation contributes to the call for more exploratory studies in HRM and TM in SMEs in the EU contexts whilst proposing a framework for practitioners to cope with Talent Retention challenges.
  

DOCTORAL DEGREE IN CIVIL ENGINEERING

• CHASCO GOÑI, UXUE: Innovative techniques for the 3D numerical simulation of high mountain torrent flows.
  
  Author: CHASCO GOÑI, UXUE
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN CIVIL ENGINEERING
  Department: Barcelona School of Civil Engineering (ETSECCPB)
  Mode: Normal
  Deposit date: 23/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 16/01/2026
  Thesis director: ROSSI BERNECOLI, RICCARDO | ZORRILLA MARTÍNEZ, RUBÉN
  Thesis abstract: This thesis develops a numerical tool for the analysis of torrential flows in high-mountain area. The formulation is based on an Eulerian two-fluid, Newtonian incompressible approach combined with a level set method for capturing the free surface.One of the main contributions of the thesis is the improvement of the mass-preserving and energy-preserving properties of Eulerian two-fluid formulations. A consistent mass source term is added to adress the intrinsic mass losses of the level-set method, and a three-step splitting strategy is introduced to guarantee the energy-preserving properties of the numerical scheme for the coupled Navier–Stokes and free-surface convection problem.The formulation is also extended to non-Newtonian rheologies, providing the capability to reproduce the more complex flow behaviours exhibited during mass flow events. A method is proposed that adapts standard CFD boundary conditions within a two-fluid framework to hydraulic flows, allowing both supercritical and subcritical regimes to be accurately captured.A black-box tool for generating three-dimensional terrain meshes is also developed, producing geometries derived from real terrain data and enabling its application to mass flow hazard scenarios.The proposed framework is validated through theoretical, experimental, and real-scale cases. Among these cases, the glacier–rock collapse in Chamoli (India, 2021) is especially significant, as it demonstrates the capability of the developed tool to reproduce a large scale torrential event and confirms its suitability for high mountain mass flow hazard analysis.
  

DOCTORAL DEGREE IN COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE

• LANGARITA BENÍTEZ, RUBÉN: Improving performance of genomics workloads through software optimizations and hardware acceleration
  
  Author: LANGARITA BENÍTEZ, RUBÉN
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE
  Department: Department of Computer Architecture (DAC)
  Mode: Normal
  Deposit date: 16/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 09/01/2026
  Thesis director: ARMEJACH SANOSA, ADRIÀ | ALASTRUEY BENEDÉ, JESÚS
  Thesis abstract: Modern multi-core architectures and accelerators have become the cornerstone for accelerating many workloads in scientific computing and engineering. Many efforts have been made to accelerate HPC applications on modern hardware architectures such as CPUs and GPUs, as well as FPGA and custom accelerators (ASICs) for specific workloads. Hence, HPC platforms are increasingly sought after to handle large-scale workloads that exploit different levels of parallelism available in the accelerators.However, there is an emergent class of workloads that cannot fully exploit the massively parallel capabilities of mainstream accelerators. Many HPC applications are often bottlenecked by the execution of sequential workflows composed of rather small compute-intensive kernels that implement complex dependency patterns. This is particularly noticeable in life science and healthcare applications, which implement long workflows of data-processing kernels. Often based on stencil and dynamic programming computations, these dependency-bound kernels tend to be moderate in size and implement complex data-dependency patterns that ultimately restrict parallelism exploitation.Precision medicine aims to improve healthcare by exploiting genomic information. In recent years, the sharp reduction in genome sequencing costs has driven a dramatic increase in the amount of data generated for processing, which has posed a significant computational and storage challenge. Sequence alignment, one of the most demanding computational problems addressed in sequencing studies, has numerous applications, including read mapping. The goal of read mapping is to align the reads extracted from the sequencing systems against a reference genome. A dynamic programming scheme is used to assign an alignment score for each of the candidates, which leads to poor data parallelization due to its dependency-bound patterns.The main objective of this work is to improve the performance of genomics workloads through software and hardware acceleration. We submit four contributions to the field. The first three are software enhancements, including an algorithm proposal, software optimizations, and kernel porting to the ARM architecture. In the last one, we expand our field of study and propose a new hardware accelerator for dependency-bound kernels, which targets dynamic programming algorithms used in genomics pipelines.
  

DOCTORAL DEGREE IN GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING

• ALONSO, MATÍAS: Hydro-mechanical modelling of a sealing concept for a deep geological radioactive waste repository
  
  Author: ALONSO, MATÍAS
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING
  Department: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (DECA)
  Mode: Normal
  Deposit date: 15/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 08/01/2026
  Thesis director: VAUNAT, JEAN | OLIVELLA PASTALLE, SEBASTIAN
  Thesis abstract: Deep Geological Disposal (DGD) has emerged as the most viable solution for the final disposal of radioactive waste, offering the potential for the permanent containment and isolation of waste from the biosphere over extended timescales. Several countries have made significant progress in developing Deep Geological Repository (DGR) concepts for the permanent disposal of such waste. The long-term safety of these facilities relies primarily on the host rock—the natural barrier that plays the central role—supplemented by engineered components collectively referred to as the engineered barrier system (EBS). The EBS includes containers, backfills, buffers, and other structures designed to ensure favourable conditions for the long-term isolation of radioactive waste. The design, performance, and safety assessment of a DGR—and particularly of its EBS components—are therefore essential for the sustainable development of nuclear energy, making their study a key research area within geotechnical engineering.In this context, the main objective of this research is to contribute to the understanding and assessment of the long-term performance of a large-diameter sealing concept developed within the framework of the Cigéo project, led by the French National Radioactive Waste Management Agency (Andra). To achieve this objective, a multi-scale and multi-step numerical modelling strategy has been adopted. The approach combines detailed material characterisation with advanced constitutive modelling of the expansive core, backfill materials, and host rock, accounting for features such as inherent anisotropy and double structure. The modelling framework incorporates coupled hydro-mechanical processes, enabling the analysis of key phenomena such as the natural hydration of the sealing core, the development of swelling pressure, the resaturation and recompression of the excavation-damaged zone (EDZ), the global equilibrium of the sealing system, and the potential deconfinement of the sealing core and its associated loss of swelling capacity. The simulations address the complexity of the problem by integrating large-scale three-dimensional geometries, advanced constitutive formulations, and critical geometric details at the decimetre scale. These challenging simulations provide valuable insights into the performance and long-term integrity of the sealing structures, establishing a robust framework and a powerful tool to enhance the understanding of the behaviour of these EBS, contributing to the optimisation of repository design and safety.
  

DOCTORAL DEGREE IN MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

• SERRA FANALS, MARC: Fracture toughness, finite fatigue life behavior and fatigue crack growth resistance of cemented carbides
  
  Author: SERRA FANALS, MARC
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING
  Department: Department of Materials Science and Engineering (CEM)
  Mode: Article-based thesis
  Deposit date: 19/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 14/01/2026
  Thesis director: LLANES PITARCH, LUIS MIGUEL | JIMENEZ PIQUÉ, EMILIO
  Thesis abstract: Cemented carbides are widely used in tooling and wear-intensive applications due to their high hardness, strength and toughness. However, their performance depends on tungsten and cobalt, two critical raw materials (CRMs) subject to supply risk, cost increases and environmental concerns. Partially substituting WC with cubic carbides (γ-phase: NbC, TiC, etc.) offers a promising path toward more sustainable hardmetals, but their adoption is limited by scarce knowledge of their mechanical reliability. In service, premature fracture—under monotonic or cyclic loads—is the dominant failure mode, making it essential to understand toughness, finite fatigue life, and fatigue crack growth (FCG) resistance in these complex microstructures.This PhD establishes a comprehensive microstructure–property framework for two γ-phase cemented carbides compared with two WC-Co references. It includes detailed microstructural characterization (grain size, phase distribution, binder mean free path and carbide contiguity), combining conventional WC-Co methods with newly developed image-analysis procedures tailored to three-phase systems. These adapted tools revealed key γ-phase features—such as low contiguity and binderless carbide clusters—that act as critical microstructural heterogeneities controlling fracture and fatigue behavior.Fracture toughness was assessed using complementary methodologies: traditional indentation, pre-cracked SENB specimens, and ultrashort pulsed laser ablation (UPLA) micro-notching for SEμNB samples, together with Hertzian indentation. SENB values served as the reference, showing that indentation consistently overestimates toughness in harder grades due to poorly formed Palmqvist cracks. The UPLA SEμNB technique matched SENB accuracy while significantly reducing preparation complexity. Hertzian indentation was only reliable for γ-phase grades, where a uniform flaw population ensured reproducible cracking loads.A key innovation of this thesis is the adoption of a finite fatigue life framework (≤200,000 cycles), more representative of real hardmetal service where failure occurs by subcritical crack growth of pre-existing flaws. Normalized S–N curves revealed lower fatigue sensitivity in fine-grained γ-phase grades, driven by a higher proportion of transgranular γ-carbide fracture that reduces binder-controlled cyclic degradation. Medium-grained grades showed similar fatigue sensitivity due to comparable microstructural scales.FCG experiments demonstrated that γ-phase additions reduce resistance to cyclic crack propagation in fine-grained grades, lowering thresholds and increasing growth rates due to brittle γ-carbide cleavage and limited ligament bridging. Medium-grained grades exhibited more metallic-like FCG behavior and higher fatigue sensitivity, reflecting stronger binder-ligament suppression. Finite-life fatigue data, analyzed via Weibull statistics and correlated with monotonic strength, enabled successful estimation of natural-flaw FCG behavior. Fine-grained grades showed excellent agreement with long-crack measurements, while medium-grained grades required R-curve corrections to account for stronger crack-growth resistance stemming from larger binder mean free paths and coarser grains. These results validate the methodology and provide a unified microstructure–fatigue–strength framework.Finally, FESEM, FIB and fractography clarified the micromechanisms governing crack propagation under monotonic and cyclic loading. Stable fatigue growth produced step-like facets within the binder, whereas unstable fracture showed dimple rupture. γ-phase grains were confirmed as preferential transgranular fracture sites—especially in fine-grained grades—explaining their lower toughness, reduced fatigue thresholds and accelerated FCG. Similar micromechanisms were observed around intrinsic defects, validating that monotonic strength and finite fatigue life are governed by the same flaw population.
  

DOCTORAL DEGREE IN MECHANICAL, FLUIDS AND AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

• MACIÀ CID, LLORENÇ: Performance Enhancement of a Vacuum Generation Pneumatic Device by Fluid Dynamics Characterization
  
  Author: MACIÀ CID, LLORENÇ
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN MECHANICAL, FLUIDS AND AEROSPACE ENGINEERING
  Department: Department of Mechanical Engineering (EM)
  Mode: Normal
  Deposit date: 19/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 14/01/2026
  Thesis director: CASTILLA LOPEZ, ROBERTO | GAMEZ MONTERO, PEDRO JAVIER
  Thesis abstract: In this thesis, behavior analyses and performance improvements, are presented for a supersonic vacuum ejector, key component in industrial automatization tasks. To characterize the performance of an EVKAC180 model ejector, a combination of numerical simulations using the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) OPENFOAM toolbox and experimental measurements on a dedicated test rig was used. Two operation regimes: a supercritical mode, where the secondary flow chokes, and a subcritical mode, where it remains subsonic. And breakpoints were identified. Simulations reproduced this dual behavior with good agreement with experimental data, though some deviations were found at high and low flow rates. In addition to the density-based implicit solver (HiSA), an ex plicit solver (rhoCentralFoam) was also used, confirming consistent results across the flow rates. The polytropic evolution, another key ejector metric, was found to be initially adiabatic, progressively transitioning to isothermal. A one-dimensional model was developed to complement CFD simulations and estimate ejector performance from geometry and operating conditions. The model computes the entrainment ratio and secondary pressures under both critical and subcritical regimes. Its results were validated against experimental and CFD data, showing accurate predictions and low deviations (below 4 %) in critical regimes. It provides a faster, low-cost alternative for early design stages. The ejector performance was improved by analyzing the influence of design parameters through single- and multi-factor analyses. The mixing chamber length proved to be the most impactful factor, leading to a 10 % individual improvement. The fractional factorial multi-factor analysis confirmed this trend and produced the final improved geometry design, referred to as the EDGE ejector, achieving a slightly higher overall performance gain of 10.4 %. The interaction effects among parameters were found to be limited yet important overall. Finally, an empirical model tool for predicting the Total Evacuation Time (TET) was proposed, combining the characteristic and polytropic curves. Several experimental test rigs were used to refine the polynomial fits of the characteristic curves, exhibiting deviations in TET prediction as low as 1.4 %. The validated tool was then applied to the EDGE ejector, achieving a 4 % reduction in TET (a gain of 8 s) compared to the original model, fulfilling the objective of this research. Moreover, the tools developed in this thesis reduce the need for extensive experimental data and enable reliable forecasting for new ejector designs.
  

DOCTORAL DEGREE IN OPTICAL ENGINEERING

• CUELLAR SANTIAGO, FATIMA: Optical and visual quality of presbyopia-correcting intraocular lenses
  
  Author: CUELLAR SANTIAGO, FATIMA
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN OPTICAL ENGINEERING
  Department: Department of Optics and Optometry (OO)
  Mode: Article-based thesis
  Deposit date: 22/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 15/01/2026
  Thesis director: MILLAN GARCIA VARELA, MARIA SAGRARIO
  Thesis abstract: The development of new presbyopia-correcting intraocular lens (IOL) designs, with their manufacturing and launching on the market makes optical characterization highly recommendable, allowing for a more objective and quantitative understanding of their properties before implantation, thus avoiding the influence of subjective and individual factors. International regulations require the evaluation of IOL optical and visual quality in both laboratory and clinical settings.This investigation focuses on the interaction of new presbyopia-correcting IOLs designs with ocular optical aberrations (in normal and astigmatic corneas), the effect of IOL decentration and tilt on image quality, and the potential risk of unwanted optical phenomena. In all these cases, studying the optical behavior of a set of diffractive trifocals, extended-depth-of focus (EDOF), and enhanced monofocal (EM) IOLs under controlled in vitro conditions serves as a valuable complement to clinical studies. The optical quality of IOLs is evaluated through preclinical metrics based on the modulation transfer function (MTF), the estimation of postoperative visual acuity, range of vision and halo. Characterization was conducted using an optical bench equipped with a model eye consisting of a saline-filled wet cell in which the commercial presbyopia-correcting IOLs under study are immersed one by one. Adaptive optics was used to introduce controlled amounts of corneal aberration. This configuration allows for an objective, patient-independent assessment and enables control over factors such as pupil size, corneal aberrations, and lens alignment, aspects difficult to control in clinical practice. The experimental setups approximately reproduced the conditions under which the lens is implanted in the eye, in accordance with current international standards (ISO 11979-2-2024 and ANSI Z80.35-2018). An upgrade of the optical setup to allow for depth of field scanning in the object space has been initiated with the characterization of tunable focus lenses (FTL).To complement and validate the characterization of intraocular lenses (IOLs) in the optical bench, this work also includes studying visual quality using the SimVis Gekko visual simulator, which allows dynamic reproduction of vision with different intraocular lens designs before the cataract surgery. We also provide clinical results, obtained through collaborative research, that demonstrate excellent agreement with the laboratory findings. These data include visual assessments (with and without astigmatism) of pseudophakic patients implanted with the same presbyopia-correcting IOLs tested in the optical laboratory.
  
• LARROSA EXPÓSITO, MANEL: Viabilidad de un nuevo diseño de lentes de contacto de gran diámetro para ojos con queratocono. Estudio clínico.
  
  Author: LARROSA EXPÓSITO, MANEL
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN OPTICAL ENGINEERING
  Department: Department of Optics and Optometry (OO)
  Mode: Normal
  Deposit date: 22/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 15/01/2026
  Thesis director:
  Thesis abstract: Introduction:Keratoconus is an ocular disease that affects millions of people worldwide and represents a major cause of visual disability. Contact lens fitting is the most widely used strategy for correcting the refractive errors it induces, as it has proven to be an effective and safe option. However, no currently available lens design provides fully satisfactory results in all cases.Work performed:The main objective of this thesis was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new large-diameter rigid corneal contact lens design, featuring peripheral corneal support and vaulting over the cone, while simultaneously optimizing the personalized lens fitting process.In an initial study, the suitability of the corneal periphery as a bearing zone was assessed. To this end, the symmetry of revolution of the cornea in eyes with keratoconus and in healthy eyes was analysed based on a sagittal height measurements. The results indicated that the symmetry of revolution in the peripheral corneal region was comparable between both groups, supporting the feasibility of the proposed design with regard to the lens bearing area.In a second study, a prospective clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the outcomes after one year of lens wear in eyes with keratoconus. The analysis showed efficacy and safety levels comparable to those of other designs, a high level of user satisfaction, and, ultimately, high fitting and retention rates.Finally, a trial lens set based on the new design was developed and preliminarily validated thorough simulated fittings in eyes with keratoconus of different severities.Conclusions:The results obtained in this thesis demonstrate that the new large-diameter corneal lens design is a safe and effective option for visual correction in eyes with keratoconus.
  

DOCTORAL DEGREE IN POLYMERS AND BIOPOLYMERS

• PUERTAS SEGURA, ANTONIO JESUS: Nano-enabled hydrogel coating for prevention of catheter-associated urinary tract infections
  
  Author: PUERTAS SEGURA, ANTONIO JESUS
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN POLYMERS AND BIOPOLYMERS
  Department: Department of Chemical Engineering (EQ)
  Mode: Article-based thesis
  Deposit date: 16/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 09/01/2026
  Thesis director: TZANOV, TZANKO KALOYANOV | CIARDELLI, GIANLUCA
  Thesis abstract: Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) represent a critical healthcare challenge, accounting for a substantial proportion of the nosocomial infections worldwide and imposing significant economic burdens on healthcare systems through prolonged hospitalisation, additional treatments, and increased healthcare costs. These infections are primarily initiated by bacterial adhesion to catheter surfaces, followed by the formation of structured biofilms that protect pathogens against host immune defences and antimicrobial treatments. Biofilm-embedded bacteria exhibit significantly enhanced antibiotic tolerance and facilitate horizontal gene transfer, thereby accelerating the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains. Current clinical strategies, including catheter replacement, systemic antimicrobial therapy, and conventional surface coatings, often prove inadequate due to limited efficacy duration, poor selectivity, or cytotoxicity concerns. This underscores the urgent need for innovative, multifunctional, and biocompatible solutions capable of preventing biofilm establishment whilst maintaining excellent biological compatibility.The present doctoral thesis addresses these challenges through the design and development of advanced nano-enabled hydrogel-based coatings, specifically engineered to enhance the performance of urinary catheters. Innovative coatings were engineered to incorporate diverse antibacterial and antibiofilm nanomaterials, including lauryl gallate-, silver-, ceragenin-, and lignin-based nanoparticles, employing green and cost-effective methodologies such as sonochemical deposition and enzymatic grafting. These nano-actives were incorporated in bio-based and antifouling polymers including chitosan, catechol-modified gelatine, and polyzwitterions. The resulting hybrid coatings were engineered to combine synergistic contact-killing and sustained-release antimicrobial mechanisms with enhanced surface hydration and superior resistance to bacterial adhesion.Comprehensive physicochemical characterisation confirmed the successful integration of the nano-enabled coatings onto indwelling urinary catheters, revealing tailored surface morphology, high stability, and controlled release profiles of the active compound. In vitro assays demonstrated potent bactericidal activity and biofilm inhibition against clinically relevant uropathogens, including Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus, under both static and dynamic flow conditions that simulate physiological environments. Cytotoxicity studies revealed high biocompatibility with human fibroblasts and keratinocytes, confirming safety for prolonged medical applications. Importantly, in vivo experiments using a rabbit catheterisation model showed significant reductions in microbial colonisation and excellent biocompatibility in animals fitted with the coated catheters, validating the protective performance of these devices under realistic physiological conditions.This thesis establishes a framework for the design and implementation of nano-enabled coatings that synergistically combine antimicrobial efficacy, biofilm resistance, and host compatibility. The findings present promising pathways for advancing next-generation urinary catheter technologies and provide a solid foundation for clinical translation, ultimately aiming to minimise CAUTI incidence and reduce the global burden of antimicrobial resistance.
  

DOCTORAL DEGREE IN SIGNAL THEORY AND COMMUNICATIONS

• PÉREZ GUIJARRO, JORDI: On Quantum Supervised Learning and Learning Techniques for Quantum Error Mitigation
  
  Author: PÉREZ GUIJARRO, JORDI
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN SIGNAL THEORY AND COMMUNICATIONS
  Department: Department of Signal Theory and Communications (TSC)
  Mode: Normal
  Deposit date: 22/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 15/01/2026
  Thesis director: RODRIGUEZ FONOLLOSA, JAVIER | PAGES ZAMORA, ALBA MARIA
  Thesis abstract: The development of quantum computers promises to drastically reduce the time required to solve certain computational problems. Among their most promising applications is the field of machine learning. However, significant uncertainty remains in this area. In particular, it is still unclear under which learning scenarios quantum algorithms will outperform their classical counterparts. This thesis aims to deepen our understanding of when quantum speed-ups can be expected in machine learning tasks. Specifically, we examine the connection between learning speed-ups and the more extensively studied phenomenon of quantum computational speed-up. We conclude that, in cases where the training set can be classically generated, the two are equivalent concepts, and we provide examples of such functions based on the prime factorization problem.Importantly, quantum machine learning is not only concerned with improving classical learning algorithms using quantum computation but also with learning from quantum data. In this context, we investigate a learning scenario in which the inputs to the target functions are quantum states, thereby generalizing the classical supervised learning framework. To this end, we first focus on the problem of quantum hypothesis testing, which can serve as a subroutine for both the problems of evaluating a function and learning a function. Specifically, we derive several sequential methods for solving the problem of quantum hypothesis testing, along with a lower bound on the resources required. This lower bound immediately implies corresponding lower bounds for the problems of learning and evaluating functions. Additionally, we develop a learning method based on the classical shadows technique.Finally, after exploring how quantum processes can aid learning tasks, we examine how classical learning techniques can, in turn, enhance quantum computing. In particular, we study how classical machine learning methods can be used to mitigate the effects of noise in quantum devices, with a focus on quantum error mitigation. Specifically, novel feature maps are proposed for the technique known as Clifford data regression. First, a theoretical justification for these feature maps is provided, followed by an analysis and a subsequent evaluation of their performance through numerical experiments. It is concluded that, for some of the proposed feature maps, a performance improvement is indeed achieved.
  

DOCTORAL DEGREE IN STATISTICS AND OPERATIONS RESEARCH

• BARRERA GÓMEZ, JOSE ANTONIO: Extension of statistical methods for time series analysis with applications in environmental epidemiology
  
  Author: BARRERA GÓMEZ, JOSE ANTONIO
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN STATISTICS AND OPERATIONS RESEARCH
  Department: Department of Statistics and Operations Research (EIO)
  Mode: Normal
  Deposit date: 23/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 16/01/2026
  Thesis director: BASAGAÑA FLORES, XAVIER | GINEBRA MOLINS, JOSEP
  Thesis abstract: Part of research in environmental epidemiology focuses on the assessment of associations betweenthe exposure to environmental factors and health outcomes based on aggregated longitudinal data in a given population. To model such associations, time series analysis is typically used, in which informational units are time points (e.g. days or weeks). An aggregated measure of the outcome at each time point (e.g. yearly mean cognitive test score or daily mortality count) is linked to an aggregated measure of exposure to some environmental factor of interest at the same time point (e.g. yearly mean air pollution level or daily mean ambient temperature) using a suitable regression (e.g. linear or Poisson) model. In this context, this thesis develops two studies.The first study deals with collinearity. Distributed lag models (DLNMs) have been increasingly used to model delayed effects of environmental factors on health. DLNMs include as predictors the same exposure measured at different time points. Those lagged variables are often highly correlated resulting in correlations between the estimated regression coefficients corresponding to different lags, which can lead to unreliable results. We first illustrate such problems and then propose a visual diagnosis tool to assess consequences of such collinearity. Essentially, new values of the outcome are simulated under an alternative hypothetical effect of the exposure of interest. Then, the original model is fitted again but now using the simulated data. Finally, both original and new results are compared graphically to assess if unexpected results obtained in the original analysis could be driven by collinearity. The tool is implemented in the R package collin. We provide illustrative examples and a user’s guide.The second study extends the Poisson regression model in multi-zone time series analysis for a count outcome. Those models need to control for trends and seasonality, which can be done by including time-stratum indicators (e.g. unique combinations of year, month and day of week). That implies having to include in the model a typically high number of nuisance parameters that can cause computational issues in the estimation process. This problem can be avoided with the conditional Poisson regression model, by conditioning by the sum of the outcome event counts in each stratum, which results in a multinomial regression model. By doing this, the nuisance parameters do not need to be estimated while the model provides relative risks (e.g. change in the mean mortality for a given increase in air pollution concentration) that are adjusted for long-term trends and seasonality. In cases of data from different geographical zones, a two-stage modelling procedure is usually performed, first analysing each zone separately and then combining zone-specific results into a single overall measure using, for instance, meta-analysis. A one-stage analysis, by analysing simultaneously data from all geographic zones, could be performed by including a random effect at zone level. However, the available (frequentist) software for conditional Poisson regression does not allow including random effects. In this context, we propose and develop a one-stage modelling approach, which is computationally feasible, namely Bayesian conditional Poisson mixed model, to analyse time series data for a count outcome that analyses all zones simultaneously while maintaining the good properties of the two-stage analysis. Our approach is based on conditioning out by the sum of the outcome event counts in each zone-time stratum and the inclusion of a random effect to model zone-specific association of interest. In addition, our method allows for including a spatial structure of the random effects as well as considering potential overdispersion. In the study, we derive model equations and implement the modelling procedure in R. To facilitate usage, we develop illustrative examples and provide code and data.
  

DOCTORAL DEGREE IN STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS

• ALCAYDE ROMO, BARBARA: Numerical modelling of the fatigue behaviour of composites. Application to the automotive industry.
  
  Author: ALCAYDE ROMO, BARBARA
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS
  Department: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (DECA)
  Mode: Normal
  Deposit date: 19/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 14/01/2026
  Thesis director: BARBU, LUCIA GRATIELA | CORNEJO VELÁZQUEZ, ALEJANDRO
  Thesis abstract: In an engineering landscape increasingly focused on optimized design, lightweight materials, and multifunctional performance, accurately predicting the fatigue behaviour of composite materials under realistic service conditions is essential. Traditional approaches to fatigue analysis in Fibre Reinforced Polymers (FRP) often rely on simplified extrapolations of laboratory data or homogenized models that neglect the complex interactions between constituent materials and environmental influences. Moreover, these approaches typically fail to account for temperature variations. Such reductionist perspectives limit the ability to capture the coupled mechanical and thermal degradation mechanisms inherent to advanced materials. This thesis proposes a unified numerical framework grounded in the Finite Element Method (FEM), integrating a phenomenological homogenization strategy, the Serial Parallel Rule of Mixtures Law (SP-RoM), with a High Cycle Fatigue (HCF) Constituive Law (CL). This approach enables the simultaneous representation of the distinct fatigue responses of fibres and matrix within layered composite laminates, accounting for variations in stacking sequence and fibre orientation. A key innovation is a calibration methodology that infers fatigue parameters at constituent level from experimental data at laminate scale, thus overcoming the challenges of direct testing of individual components. Furthermore, the work presents a thermomechanically coupled fatigue model incorporating temperature dependent material properties and thermal expansion, generalizing classical fatigue life prediction curves to fluctuating and spatially varying temperature fields. To address the significant computational demands of fatigue simulations, an Advance in Time Strategy (AITS) Cycle Jump (CJ) is developed, enabling efficient simulation of long-term fatigue damage evolution without sacrificing accuracy. Validated against experimental benchmarks and literature data, the proposed methodology advances fatigue life prediction in composite materials by delivering a flexible, robust, and computationally efficient tool. Additionally, the fatigue formulation has been enhanced to capture complex thermomechanical effects. This work lays the foundation for future research on integrated modelling of fatigue and multiphysics deterioration phenomena in advanced composite structures.
  
• SLIMANI, MEHDI: Computational strategies for time-accurate simulation of part-scale LPBF
  
  Author: SLIMANI, MEHDI
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS
  Department: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (DECA)
  Mode: Article-based thesis
  Deposit date: 15/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 08/01/2026
  Thesis director: CHIUMENTI, MICHELE | CERVERA RUIZ, LUIS MIGUEL
  Thesis abstract: The qualification of MAM (Metal Additive Manufacturing) processes remains a majorchallenge due to the complex thermo-mechanical phenomena involved.The process is driven by a small moving heat sourcethat generateshighly localized, transient thermal gradientsand induces thermal strains.As these strains are constrained bythe surrounding material,residual stresses and warpage develop,causing part distortion or even failure.Accurate modeling is essential for understanding the underlying physics, aswell as for reliable process qualification and parameter optimization.However,such simulations are computationally expensive due to the small size of theheat source, which introduces disparate spatial scales,and its continuous motion, which gives rise to equally disparate temporalscales.The need to simultaneously resolve these scalesrenders high-fidelity part-scale simulations prohibitively expensive.This thesis contributes to the field of MAM modeling on both the appliedand methodological fronts. On the applied side, methods for warpage and stressmitigation are investigated in both DED (Directed Energy Deposition) and LPBF (Laser Powder Bed Fusion) processes, includinga novel substrate design strategy for DED that significantlyreduces residual stresses, and a modeling framework to capturerecoater–induced build failure in LPBF.On the methodological front, the thesis focuses on developing efficientstrategies for high-fidelity part-scale simulations of LPBF processes,with particular emphasis on overcoming the disparity of temporal scales.WhileAMR (Adaptive Mesh Refinement) has become a popular approach to address the challenge of disparatespatial scales, uniform time stepping remains the standard approach in the field.For centimeter-scale parts, this can require hundreds of millions of time-steps,making such simulations computationally unfeasible.Commonly used strategies to alleviate this issue involveextreme simplifications of the thermal model,such as lumping multiple tracks or layersinto a single time-step.Effectively, this eliminates the small scales associated with the moving heat sourcebut compromises the model's predictive accuracy,requiring additional calibration.Two methods are proposed to address the temporal-scale disparity withouteliminating the underlying small scales: the advected subdomain and aRobin–Robin substepping scheme, both designed to preserve modelfidelity while drastically reducing computational cost.The advected subdomain method attaches a moving mesh to the laser. Bysolving the thermal problem in the reference frame of the heat source, thetransient dynamics near the melt pool become quasi-steady, allowing the use ofsignificantly larger time-steps.Substepping divides the domain into regions that evolve with differenttime-steps:finer steps are applied locally around the moving heat source, while larger stepsare used away from it.The developed Robin-Robin coupling scheme proves robust andensures mesh-independent convergence between the regions.These methods and their components are systematically evaluated throughnumerical analysis, benchmarked against standard approaches, and validatedagainst experimental data. Furthermore, they are combined to compound theirrespective benefits.Together, these contributions advance numerical MAM modeling,thereby improving the computational efficiency of high-fidelity simulationsand enabling reliable process qualification and optimization.
  

DOCTORAL DEGREE IN SUSTAINABILITY

• VALLEJOS CARTES, ROSANA: Examinando preferencias, motivaciones y actitudes de los consumidores para mejorar la sostenibilidad de los sistemas agroalimentarios. Una aplicación a los sistemas agropastorales extensivos.
  
  Author: VALLEJOS CARTES, ROSANA
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN SUSTAINABILITY
  Department: University Research Institute for Sustainability Science and Technology (IS.UPC)
  Mode: Normal
  Deposit date: 22/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 15/01/2026
  Thesis director: GIL ROIG, JOSE MARIA
  Thesis abstract: In the context of global transformations in the agri-food system—marked by environmental pressures, biodiversity loss, market concentration, and dietary homogenization—a critical scenario for sustainability has emerged. Within this landscape, extensive livestock farming, based on grazing and traditional management practices, constitutes a viable alternative to intensive production by integrating ecological, economic, and sociocultural dimensions. Nevertheless, its long-term viability depends largely on consumer recognition, as purchasing decisions can drive the transition toward more sustainable systems. This thesis assumes that consumers operate as agents of change but face constraints linked to limited information, perceptions of high prices, and insufficient market differentiation. Accordingly, the general objective was to assess the economic and social viability of extensive livestock systems through an examination of consumer preferences, motivations, and attitudes toward sustainably produced lamb meat, generating evidence to inform differentiation strategies and public policies that support agri-food sustainability. The research employed a mixed-methods design developed in two complementary phases. The qualitative phase comprised semi-structured interviews and participatory workshops with sheep producers to identify sustainability drivers and market-valued attributes. The quantitative phase implemented Discrete Choice Experiments (DCEs) among consumers in Catalonia, carried out in two stages: an exploratory study (n = 396) to refine attributes and optimize the experimental design, followed by a larger study (n = 1,003) incorporating attitudinal measures through the New Ecological Paradigm (NEP) scale. Data were analyzed using mixed logit and latent class models, enabling the identification of heterogeneous preferences, the estimation of willingness to pay, and the integration of environmental and ethical attitudes into consumer choice modeling.The findings reveal a complex interaction between knowledge, attitudes, and values in shaping preferences for sustainable meat. Results indicate limited consumer knowledge of production systems—particularly extensive livestock farming—despite the strong symbolic valuation of local origin, animal welfare, and territorial authenticity. Labeling and certification mechanisms emerge as essential tools for building trust and supporting informed decisions. The highest willingness to pay is associated with organic production and animal welfare, while sensory cues such as color and visible fat exert a complementary influence.The research confirms a persistent gap between stated attitudes and actual behaviors, shaped by economic constraints, purchasing routines, and information availability. However, it also identifies a segment of consumers who are informed and value-consistent, suggesting opportunities for differentiation through targeted communication, certification, and education initiatives. Overall, the thesis provides an integrated understanding of the relationship between consumer behavior and sustainability, advocating for a renewed appreciation of agro-pastoral systems as public goods that deliver not only food but also essential ecosystem and cultural services. Its results contribute to the development of agri-food policies and market strategies that acknowledge the role of consumer demand in advancing sustainable production models, reinforcing consumers as central actors in the transition toward an ethical, territorially grounded, and environmentally responsible agri-food economy.
  

DOCTORAL DEGREE IN URBAN AND ARCHITECTURAL MANAGEMENT AND VALUATION

• SIFUENTES MUÑOZ, BLANCA CAROLINA: Transformación urbana y movilidad sostenible: construyendo una Barcelona car-free
  
  Author: SIFUENTES MUÑOZ, BLANCA CAROLINA
  Thesis file: (contact the Doctoral School to confirm you have a valid doctoral degree and to get the link to the thesis)
  Programme: DOCTORAL DEGREE IN URBAN AND ARCHITECTURAL MANAGEMENT AND VALUATION
  Department: Department of Architectural Technology (TA)
  Mode: Normal
  Deposit date: 15/12/2025
  Deposit END date: 08/01/2026
  Thesis director: ROCA CLADERA, JOSE NICASIO | ARELLANO RAMOS, BLANCA ESMARAGDA
  Thesis abstract: The configuration of contemporary cities has been deeply shaped by the hegemony of the automobile as a structuring axis of territory, mobility, and public space. This model, consolidated since the mid-20th century, has led to dispersed, exclusionary, and unsustainable urban forms, limiting quality of life and hindering the creation of more equitable and resilient environments. In response, critical approaches have emerged advocating for a paradigm shift toward people-centered cities, the right to the city, and sustainable mobility.In this context, this doctoral thesis aims to construct prospective scenarios for a car-free Barcelona by 2050, through a structural and multiscalar analysis of its mobility system, urban planning, and use of public space. A mixed-methods approach is adopted, integrating six methodological lines: (1) collection and preprocessing of mobility data from the Barcelona Metropolitan Area (AMB); (2) exploratory factor analysis (EFA) on a longitudinal AMB database; (3) trend analysis using regression and ARIMA models to project modal shifts; (4) comparative analysis of Amsterdam and Copenhagen as international car-free transition benchmarks; (5) expert consultation through a disaggregated Delphi method; and (6) construction of contrasted future scenarios.The results identify latent structures in the mobility system, tensions between urban policies and actual mobility practices, and institutional challenges linked to multilevel governance. The developed scenarios outline alternative urban futures, from continuity-based models to deep transformations, highlighting their implications in terms of equity, sustainability, and the right to the city.This research provides an original contribution by integrating approaches from sustainable mobility, prospective planning, and multiscalar analysis. Its findings guide the formulation of public policies and urban strategies toward more just, healthy, and sustainable post-car cities. Ultimately, it proposes conceptual and methodological tools to rethink urbanism through the lens of deep transformation in the face of climate, social, and territorial uncertainty.