DOCC has been an interdisciplinary MSCA doctoral programme at the University of Innsbruck (Austria) that was training 15 research fellows for 3 years on modelling and simulation of complex dynamical continuum systems in research fields of mathematics, physics, chemistry, atmospheric sciences, material and engineering sciences, and computer science.
DOCC provided structured training in both research-relevant and professional skills by building expertise in the intersectorally seminal fields of computational material, fluid and gas dynamics, which procures multiple topical technological, societal and medical applications relevant to climate, energy, safety, or nano and life sciences. In our research focus on "Dynamics Of Complex Continua" (DOCC) we have developed and applied methods for theoretical and numerical analysis in modelling and simulation of dynamical processes, such as stability, nonlinearity, transport and structure formation. In particular we have considered meso- and macroscopic many-body and continuum systems of solids, soft matter, liquids, gases and plasmas, that are characterised by complex couplings between its constituents, its environment, or multi-scale dependence.
Many contemporary research and technology fields rely on modelling and simulation (M&S) as a fundamental tool. A variety of areas require in-depth understanding of structural and dynamical properties of matter and materials, whose meso- and macroscopic many-body or continuum properties often show a high level of dynamic complexity. Researchers in M&S across all areas are faced with a number of common challenges that complicate both model building and computational simulation, as well as the resulting application to complex dynamical systems. DOCC has prepared Europe's next top modellers to link simulations and the real world within a multi-disciplinary environment, by providing beyond essential technical expertise also the training in key abilities to communicate and transfer methods and results.
Our world and society increasingly rely on accurate predictions, on trustworthy implementation of processes, and timely political decisions, which are based on reliable modelling, simulation and understanding of complex dynamical systems. The often neglected "soft" skills of communicating and discussing the underlying essential issues of reliability, uncertainty, and predictability of consequences inherent to models and simulations become increasingly important. Targeted training in communication and knowledge-transfer skills was therefore implemented as a central supplementary pillar within the programme. A further aspect was based on cooperations with and secondments of fellows to intersectoral partners. All fellows in the programme have been offered the possibility to benefit from intersectoral exposure through existing or newly established regional or international industrial or public-sector partners, and from specific training courses on career-related skills and perspectives.
