The Laboratory for High Power Electronic Systems (HPE) at the Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering of ETH Zurich conducts internationally leading research on power electronic converter systems, which are required, for example, in future energy distribution systems for the integration of renewable energy sources or in traction applications/electric vehicles. Another research focus is on solid-state pulse modulators for medical applications (computer tomography/cancer treatment) and accelerators (CERN). For the design and optimisation of the various power electronic systems, we develop advanced multi-physics models/digital twins/virtual prototypes at the component as well as at the system level. For a new research project on planar magnetics for highly compact, low profile power electronic systems, we are looking for a: PhD candidate (100%) for developing multi-physics models of planar inductors and transformers

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.

• You must have a diploma/M.Sc. degree in electrical engineering with excellent grades 
• Fundamental knowledge of power electronic converter systems
• Good communication skills 
• Fluency in English
• The willingness to fully commit yourself as part of an international team.
• In addition, you should be interested in the detailed modelling and design of magnetic components and the optimisation of power electronic systems.

• Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society
• We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university
• You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits
• Our laboratory offers a challenging and scientifically highly exciting full-time position in a dynamic, international team at one of the world-wide leading technical universities
• We strongly encourage participation at international conferences and offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits as well as outstanding research and laboratory facilities for your experiments

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• Comprehensive CV
• Your B.S. and M.Sc. transcripts
• Electronic copies of the B.Sc/M.Sc. thesis and/or your publications (if available)
• Names/adresses of references should be sent per email to J. Biela ([email protected]).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

For further information please contact Prof. Dr. Jürgen Biela at [email protected] or have a look at our publications on our website www.hpe.ee.ethz.ch.