Applicants are invited for a PhD fellowship/scholarship at Graduate School of Technical Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark, within the Electrical and Computer Engineering programme. The position is available from 01 April 2025 or later. You can submit your application via the link under 'how to apply'.

Title:
Designing the Next Generation of Smart Wireless Power Chargers

Research area and project description:
Project Overview: This PhD project, situated within the Electrical Engineering Department at Aarhus University, aims to revolutionize the way mobile robots receive power. By focusing on the development of smart wireless power chargers, this project will tackle fundamental challenges associated with current charging technologies and push the boundaries of how energy is transferred wirelessly in various environments.

Scientific Goals: The primary objective of this project is to design and validate innovative wireless power charging systems that are capable of adapting dynamically to the changing needs of mobile robots. This includes minimizing the physical constraints imposed by wired systems and exploring the potential of scalable, flexible charging solutions that integrate seamlessly into the operational frameworks of these autonomous agents.

Research Focus:

• Miniaturization of Circuit Elements: Shrinking the size of essential components to enhance system compactness and efficiency.
• Optimization of Charging Coils: Developing a single coil solution that can adapt to charge batteries of varying voltages and capacities.

• Integration of Advanced Materials: Leveraging cutting-edge materials that provide flexibility and durability to charging platforms.

• Advanced Control of Power Electronics Switches: Utilizing artificial intelligence to optimize the operation of power switches, enhancing efficiency and reliability.

• Advanced Design of Multi-Port Power Converters: Engineering sophisticated converter architectures that can handle multiple power sources and outputs, increasing the system’s versatility and capability.

Expected Outcomes: The project aims to deliver a prototype that demonstrates considerable improvements in efficiency, flexibility, and user adaptability over existing charging systems, paving the way for broader adoption in industrial and domestic settings.

Project description (½-4 pages). This document should describe your ideas and research plans for this specific project. If you wish to, you can indicate an URL where further information can be found.

Qualifications and specific competences:
Applicants to the PhD position must have a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or a related field with a strong academic record.

Essential:

• Technical Skills: Profound knowledge in power electronics, circuit design, wireless technologies, advanced control system design and artificial intelligence. Familiarity with simulation software such as MATLAB/Simulink or equivalent.
• Research Skills: Ability to conduct independent research, analyse complex data, and present findings clearly.

Desirable:

• Practical Experience: Prior experience in hardware development, PCB design, or work with autonomous systems is highly beneficial.
• Software Proficiency: Experience in programming with Python or C++, and tools like Altium Designer for PCB layout.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

Application Process: Interested candidates are invited to apply by submitting the following documents:

• A cover letter outlining your motivation and qualifications for the project.
• A detailed CV including academic background and work experience.
• Copies of academic transcripts and diplomas.
• Names and contact details of two references.

Embark on a journey to shape the future of power electronics and contribute to a sustainable world with Aarhus University.

Place of employment and place of work:
The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is Department of Electrical and Computer Science, Finlandsgade 20, 8200 Aarhus N., Denmark. 

Contacts:
Applicants seeking further information are invited to contact:

• Mohammad Khooban, khooban@ece.au.dk (main supervisor)
• Yasser Rezaeiyan, yrezaeiyan@ece.au.dk (co-supervisor)

How to apply:
Please follow this link to submit your application.

Application deadline is 30 November 2024 at 23:59 CET.

Preferred starting date is 01 April 2025

For information about application requirements and mandatory attachments, please see our application guide.

Please note:

• Only documents received prior to the application deadline will be evaluated. Thus, documents sent after the deadline will not be taken into account.
• The programme committee may request further information or invite the applicant to attend an interview.
• Shortlisting will be used, which means that the evaluation committee only will evaluate the most relevant applications.

Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply, regardless of their personal background. Salary and terms of employment are in accordance with applicable collective agreement.