Posted 01 March 2012
Ferrari selects UCD student Ian Whelan during global search for young engineers
Following its search for outstanding candidates with engineering degrees from across the world’s leading universities, Ferrari has selected Ian Whelan (24), a PhD student from the UCD School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin, for its 6-month work experience package at Ferrari Headquarters in Maranello, Italy.
Ian, who will join the Engine Development Department at Ferrari from the beginning of March 2012, may have the opportunity to remain at the company after he completes the initial package where he could further develop his career in-house at Ferrari.
| Listen to Ian Whelan interviewed on RTÉ 2FM's Tubridy Show - 01/03/12 |
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Ian (24) from Sandyford in Dublin will continue and complete his UCD PhD “A study of particulate matter emissions from gasoline direct injection engines” while working at Ferrari.
“After applying for the internship, I was contacted by Ferrari to complete several online applications including psychometric tests, mathematical tests, and engineering tests,” says Ian.
“Then I took part in several online conference type interviews, before being flown out to the Ferrari Headquarters in Maranello, Italy, along with 16 other hopefuls. At the end of the visit, I was approached by a representative of Ferrari and asked if I wanted to take up the offer.”
“Since then, it hasn’t really sunk in. It’s kind of surreal. It’s the opportunity of a lifetime,” he says.
Ian is a keen follower of different forms of motor-sport from Formula 1 to Moto GP.
In February last year, while on holiday Ian went to visit the Ferrari Headquarters, but could not gain access because it is closed to tourists.
Ferrari's recruiting is aimed at outstanding candidates who have received engineering degrees from top universities worldwide in the last 12 months.
Ian Whelan is one of 5 young engineers from around the world (1 Irish, 2 Italians, 1 Greek, and 1 Canadian) selected by Ferrari from over 1,000 candidates.
He completed his BE Mechanical Engineering (1st class honours) at University College Dublin, and his MSc Racing Engine Design (1st class honours) at Oxford Brookes University.
He will complete his UCD PhD "A study of particulate matter emissions from gasoline direct injection engines" while working at Ferrari.
The UCD School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin, provides engineering education and research opportunities that reflect the expertise and interests of some 20 full-time academic staff in the areas of energy, design and manufacturing, materials, and bioengineering.
Ian Whelan's PhD thesis supervisor is Dr David Timoney.
(Produced by UCD University Relations)
