PhD student in electronics systems with a focus on electric drive systems for aviation

Luleå University of Technology experiences rapid growth with world-leading expertise within several research domains. We shape the future through innovative education and groundbreaking research results and drawing on our location in the Arctic region, we create global societal benefit. Our scientific and artistic research and education are carried out in close collaboration with international, national and regional companies, public actors and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has an annual turnover of SEK 1.9 billion. Today, we have 1,815 staff and 19,155 students.



In the coming years, multi-billion investments will be made in large projects in Northern Sweden to create a fossil-free society both nationally and globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these cutting-edge research projects and in the societal transformation that they entail. We offer a broad range of courses and study programmes to match the skills in demand. We hope that you will help us to build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.

At the Department of Computer Science, Electrical and Space Engineering, the university has brought together research and education in electrical engineering, space technology, computer and systems science. The electronics systems group focuses on electrodynamic simulation, electronics design, and measurement technology. The research and teaching conducted is supported by high-quality infrastructure with state-of-the-art laboratories for electromagnetic compatibility, microelectronics and photoacoustics. We are now looking for a PhD student who can contribute to our growing activities.



Subject description

Electronics systems include electronics design, measurement technology and electromagnetic compatibility for control, monitoring and instrumentation of technical processes and systems, with close connection to applications and applied research.



Duties

As a PhD student you are expected to perform both experimental and theoretical work within your research studies as well as communicate your results at national and international conferences and in scientific journals. Most of your working time will be devoted to your own research studies. In addition, you can have the opportunity to try the teacher role. As a researcher, you work as a neutral party in many contexts, which provides a great opportunity to be involved in challenging development projects.

Project discription

The environmental effects of flying on climate change have become a major driving force for the development of electric aircraft, where the focus is currently on safety, battery technology and driveline development. Today's certified electric airplanes carry a maximum of two passengers for 100 km, but development is progressing quickly. The Swedish company Heart Aerospace is now developing an electric aircraft for 19 passengers to be put into service by 2026, and at Skellefteå airport pilot training is conducted with the electric aircraft Pipistrel Alpha Electro. Associated charging infrastructure is expanded with charging stations, solar parks and, energy storage. At Luleå University of Technology, our group is involved in driving the area forward via projects and collaborations with authorities and local actors.



The development of electrified vehicles, such as cars and airplanes, requires very good models of drive systems and wiring to ensure electromagnetic compatibility and functionality. It is advanced motor control, switched power electronics, high current and voltage levels that work together and can create disturbances within and outside the own system. The project's goal is to develop analysis and calculation methods for electric drive systems with respect to electromagnetic performance and compatibility for future green electric aircraft and vehicle fleets that contribute to climate goals. Depending on your background, the project may focus on either power electronics aspects, cabling, or system behavior. As a doctoral student, you will have a close collaboration with researchers and staff at the university as well as with experts in electrodynamic simulation and modeling in Sweden and internationally.



Qualifications

We are looking for you who is a very good academic and highly motivated to carry out advanced research in the field, both independently and in collaboration with group members and our partners in academia and industry.



We are looking for a very motivated and enthusiastic doctoral student who wants to conduct state-of-the-art research. You must have a master's degree in electrical engineering, engineering physics, (aero)space engineering or a related subject, preferably with a background in the field of numerical modeling and simulation. The applicant should have good communication skills in written and oral communication in English.



For further information on specific doctoral education, see General syllabus for the Board of the faculty of science and technology.



Information

Employment as a doctoral student is time-limited to 4 years, teaching and other departmental duties may be added with max 20 %. Placement: Luleå. Starting: upon agreement.



For more information, please contact professor and chair, Jonas Ekman, +46 (0)920-49 2828 Jonas.Ekman@ltu.se



Union representatives: SACO-S Kjell Johansson (+46)920- 49 1529 kjell.johansson@ltu.se, OFR-S Lars Frisk (+46)920-49 1792 lars.frisk@ltu.se



In case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.



Application

We prefer that you apply for this position by clicking on the apply button below. The application should include a CV, personal letter and copies of verified diplomas from high school and universities. Mark your application with the reference number below. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish.



Closing date for applications: November 7, 2022

Reference number: 3640-2022