The programme focuses on theoretical knowledge as well as practical experience in the field of doctoral studies. Cooperation with international research institutes is highly supported. The study programme is designed to fulfil demands and meet societal and industry requirements for highly educated and qualified professionals in the fields of design and process engineering.

The PhD study branch is open to graduates in the technological fields of processing mineral resources, waste recycling and water technology. Processing is a scientific discipline that is traditionally related to the research and development of technologies to do with mineral resources and water that do not have a useful value as mined, thus being unusable.