Doctoral Researcher - Solid-State Transformer Development

About the role

The Laboratory for High Power Electronic Systems (HPE) at the Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering of ETH Zurich is looking for a doctoral researcher for a new project on solid-state transformers for future photovoltaic and energy storage systems. The work focuses on modelling and optimising high-power solid-state transformers (SSTs), with a focus on medium-frequency transformers (MFTs). The position is fixed-term and based in Zurich.

Key responsibilities

• Model and optimise high-power solid-state transformers, investigating high-frequency, high-voltage MFTs for PV systems and medium-voltage grids.
• Integrate battery storage systems and control dynamic power flow between batteries and the grid.
• Develop multiphysics models for losses, temperature, cooling, resonances and electrical insulation.
• Optimise core, windings and cooling for better efficiency, power density and power transfer.
• Develop and optimise SST systems and power electronic converters.
• Integrate models into computationally efficient optimisation procedures and collaborate with other doctoral researchers.
• Design, build and experimentally validate MFT prototypes and converter systems.

Required profile

• Diploma or M.Sc. degree in electrical engineering with excellent grades.
• Fluency in English and good communication skills.
• Willingness to fully commit as part of an international team.
• Interest in detailed modelling and design of magnetic components and optimisation of power electronic systems.

Required skills

• Fundamental knowledge of power electronic converter systems.
• Multiphysics modelling of magnetic components and power electronics.

What we offer

• A full-time, challenging position in a dynamic, international team at a leading technical university.
• Public transport season tickets, car sharing, sports facilities, childcare and pension benefits.
• Competitive salary and support for participation in international conferences.

Applications must be submitted online through the university's application portal; applications by email or post are not accepted. Required documents are a CV, B.Sc. and M.Sc. transcripts, copies of the thesis and/or publications, and reference names and addresses.