The Clock is Ticking: Altran Engineering Academy

7th Round of the Student Competition Begins / Application Deadline 28th May / Two Places Awarded for the First Time

How does an F1 team best react to changes in engine regulations? How can the aerodynamic efficiency of a racing car be improved? Linking the chassis and engine competitively for the premier class of motorsport requires detailed analysis of many different areas. The Renault F1 team have been working closely with Altran since 2002.

Talented engineers from a variety of specialist fields, for example computer calculations, information technology, electronics, logistics and quality control are seconded from the innovations and technology consultancy firm. The consultants are at the Renault F1 team's disposal at both the chassis development workshop in Enstone, UK, and the engine department at Viry-Châtillon near Paris. The ING Renault F1 team values the long-standing, tried and tested cooperation it has with its equal partners Altran; this partnership is based on the wealth of experience the consultancy has within the performance-driven world of Formula One.

Real Innovation Is Needed

As part of the competition run by the Altran Engineering Academy, we are again offering engineering students and graduates the chance this year to use their technical abilities to turn ideas into real innovations which will revolutionise the motorsport business. Up for grabs are two six-month internships as part of the Renault F1 team.

Applicants must develop an innovative idea that considerably improves the safety, reliability or performance of a racing car in the following areas:aerodynamics, drive technology, performance engineering, vehicle dynamics, control engineering, material sciences, sensor technology and/or testing systems.In addition, a six-month plan must show how the idea can be achieved and implemented.

The submissions will be assessed by a jury of experts from Altran and the Renault F1 team in terms of the concept, scientific and engineering know-how, and the comprehensibility. One winner per country will then be chosen. So that candidates that make it to the final round do not just take part in the competition, but also have the opportunity to improve their career prospects, their final decision will be made on the basis of a competitive pitch on the 13th of July in Enstone in front of the jury. For many competitors, it will be one of their first pitches in front of an independent jury.

Rieder Kirstan, spokesman for the management board at Altran believes the demands may seem high, but they are warranted. "The Altran Academy definitely expects a lot from competitors; however, in return, they get a unique opportunity which, this year - for the first time ever - we are looking to give to two innovative and enthusiastic science and engineering students. We are also particularly pleased that, last year, Helen Makey became the first woman to win a place at the Altran Academy."

This year, for the first time ever, two internships are being offered since the number of participants has risen over the past few years. The winners will work as interns either at the chassis foundry in Enstone, UK, or the engine laboratory in Viry-Châtillon in France. The prize also includes a six-month fixed salary, free accommodation and a company car with a fuel card. Every finalist will also receive an official driver's watch made of steel from the Renault F1 team to mark their achievements.

If you are interested, apply before 28th May 2010 at www.altran-academy.com.