Master Thesis: Oil Quality Sensor - Sensor Performance Testing and Modeling
Göteborg, SE, 417 15
Background
In Powertrain Engineering and Base Engine, we are working with the internal combustion engine (ICE). We are constantly seeking smarter technical solutions to develop better products for both customers and our environment. We are proud product owners and accountable for the lifecycle management of our products, from advanced engineering, through product development into the maintenance phase. On a daily base we cooperate with the other engineering organizations, purchasing departments, projects, test engineers and suppliers as well as our colleagues at other sites (India, Brazil, US and France). Our products are used in more than 190 markets and considered to be part of the core business.
We are seeking a master thesis student to support us introducing a new Oil Quality Sensor (OQS) for predictive maintenance and improved product validation. This sensor will enable continuous monitoring of engine oil quality, helping us to be more proactive.
Project description and objectives
The project will include:
- Plan, coordinate, and perform sensor performance tests with various oils (both new and aged) and contaminants such as fuel, water, glycol, metal particles and soot.
- Create a filtration method using Python after collecting data to ensure accurate analysis.
- Create an OQS behavioral model to serve as the foundation for future oil condition monitoring and aging prediction in upcoming test objects (including test cell engines and field test vehicles).
- Integrate the developed model into engine control software using Simulink for real-time application.
This thesis offers you a hands-on role at the intersection of fluid engineering, data analysis, numerical modeling and SW, with a tangible impact on product reliability and predictive maintenance.
Profile
We are looking for a motivated Master’s student in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. You have a strong interest in fluid engineering and data analysis. You enjoy experimental work and are comfortable working both practically and theoretically. Furthermore, you work in a structured way and possess strong analytical and communication skills.
Preferred skills and qualifications:
- Experience with Python programming, Matlab and PowerBI for data processing and analysis.
- Familiar with modeling and simulation tools (e.g., Simulink or similar).
- Ability to work independently and collaborate in a team environment.
- Analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Good communication skills for reporting and presenting results.
Duration
The work shall be rewarded 30hp during the spring semester of 2026. There might be possibilities to adapt duration depending on when the thesis can start.
Resources and placement
During your master’s thesis, you will collaborate with our global Powertrain Technology team, with your closest colleagues based in Gothenburg (Lundby).
We look forward to receiving your application at latest 9th of January.
If you have any questions, please get in touch:
Lina Schäfer, Manager Oil and Cooling Systems, lina.schafer@volvo.com
We value your data privacy and therefore do not accept applications via mail.
Who we are and what we believe in
We are committed to shaping the future landscape of efficient, safe, and sustainable transport solutions. Fulfilling our mission creates countless career opportunities for talents across the group’s leading brands and entities.
Applying to this job offers you the opportunity to join Volvo Group. Every day, you will be working with some of the sharpest and most creative brains in our field to be able to leave our society in better shape for the next generation. We are passionate about what we do, and we thrive on teamwork. We are almost 100,000 people united around the world by a culture of care, inclusiveness, and empowerment.
Group Trucks Technology are seeking talents to help design sustainable transportation solutions for the future. As part of our team, you’ll help us by engineering exciting next-gen technologies and contribute to projects that determine new, sustainable solutions. Bring your love of developing systems, working collaboratively, and your advanced skills to a place where you can make an impact. Join our design shift that leaves society in good shape for the next generation.