We are looking for highly motivated individuals with an outstanding academic background who are interested in pursuing a PhD in the important and multidisciplinary research area of modelling and optimising planar magnetic devices (inductors and transformers). Compact and highly efficient planar magnetic devices utilising for example PCB based winding structures are key components of many power electronic converters with a low profile, which are required for example for DC-DC converters (PoL-converters) in future data centres or in automotive applications for interconnecting the main drive battery with the 12V auxiliary battery. Planar magnetic devices are also often required in wireless charging/energy transfer systems, where they must be highly compact and efficient.
To push the efficiency and power density limits of such planar magnetic devices, you will develop multi-physics models of planar magnetics. These models will comprehensively describe the (HF) losses in the windings, the parasitic capacitances of the windings, and also the temperature distribution in the winding and also the core. Furthermore, you will develop models for designing the electrical insulation of the winding. Based on these models, you will work on optimising the core and winding geometry, as well as developing advanced cooling concepts for the windings and core. Based on the models and developed concepts, you will then identify technological barriers to power density of planar magnetics.
The developed models should be integrated into optimisation procedures for power electronic converter systems in a computationally efficient manner. This is essential for achieving outstanding system efficiencies and power densities, as well as gaining a competitive edge. The models are also part of an ongoing, wider modelling framework development project at HPE, offering the opportunity to collaborate with other PhD candidates on various modelling aspects.
For verifying the new cooling and winding concepts as well as the developed models, you will design and build different prototypes, including PE converter systems, to operate the planar magnetics under realistic conditions.
Our laboratory is offering a challenging and scientifically exciting full-time position within a dynamic international team at one of the world's leading technical universities. We also strongly encourage participation in international conferences and offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and outstanding research and laboratory facilities for your experiments.
