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- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research on GaN power devices and their applications in renewable energy.
- Company: Join Swansea University, a leader in engineering research with state-of-the-art facilities.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fully funded PhD scholarship, annual stipend, and additional research expenses.
- Why this job: Be part of a revolutionary project that impacts the UK's energy infrastructure and sustainability.
- Qualifications: Open to motivated individuals with a passion for electrical engineering and research.
- Other info: Work between Siemens and Swansea University in a brand new cleanroom facility.
The predicted salary is between 19237 - 21237 £ per year.
Organisation/Company: Swansea University
Department: Central Research
Field: Engineering » Electrical Engineering
Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1)
Positions: PhD Positions
Country: United Kingdom
Application Deadline: 5 May 2025 - 11:59 (Europe/London)
Type of Contract: Temporary
Job Status: Full-time
Hours Per Week: 35
Offer Starting Date: 1 Jul 2025
Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme
Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No
Offer Description
The project will work alongside a leading industrial partner (Siemens), which brings together a number of world leaders in power electronics and energy conversion to develop solutions for industrial motor drives as a primary application, as well as renewable energy as a secondary application. The purpose is to improve the UK's energy infrastructure in applications such as manufacturing, warehousing, utilities supply, food & beverage processing, and many others as we move into a low carbon economy.
A paradigm shift in technology will be required to cope effectively with an ever-increasing amount of renewable energy being brought online. It is envisaged that other forms of renewable energy, e.g., tidal and solar, could also play a role alongside traditional coal-fired power stations and nuclear energy generation. Revolutionary changes to power conversion are indispensable if these carbon emissions targets are to be met.
The objective is to enable a step change in power density, energy efficiency, sustainability in transmission and distribution through novel power electronics solutions and products based on new materials. At the heart of such systems are power semiconductor devices. The advantages of wide bandgap materials such as silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN) for power electronic applications are well documented.
High voltage GaN is an emerging semiconductor technology that has recently been identified as a promising candidate for power electronics with the potential to have an impact in the medium voltage range (650V – 3.3kV). There are very few reports on this exciting new technology. This project is aimed at understanding the fundamental performance limit of vertical GaN power devices through advanced modelling (electrical and thermal), device fabrication, and testing, including a reliability analysis.
A self-motivated individual who will be based between the Siemens facility (Siemens Power Electronics Innovation hub) in Newport and the Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) will conduct research into the latest GaN power electronic devices. The research work will be undertaken in a state-of-the-art, brand new Centre of Integrative Semiconductor Materials (CISM) cleanroom.
For more details regarding this world-class facility see here: the new Centre for Integrative Semiconductor Materials (CISM) – Swansea University’s flagship new £55M facility for advanced semiconductor research and development.
English Language: IELTS 6.5 Overall (5.5+ each comp.) or Swansea University recognised equivalent. Full details of our English Language policy, including certificate time validity, can be found here.
Additional Information
This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees, an annual stipend at £19,237, and an annual £2,000 top-up. Additional research expenses will also be available.
ELECTRONIC AND ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING: FULLY FUNDED EPSRC ICASE AND SIEMENS PHD SCHOLARSHIP: GA[...] employer: Swansea University
Contact Detail:
Swansea University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land ELECTRONIC AND ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING: FULLY FUNDED EPSRC ICASE AND SIEMENS PHD SCHOLARSHIP: GA[...]
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in GaN power devices and wide bandgap materials. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the power electronics sector, especially those associated with Siemens or similar companies. Attend relevant conferences or webinars to make connections that could provide insights or even referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with current research and publications related to power electronics and renewable energy. Being able to discuss recent findings or trends can set you apart as a knowledgeable candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential technical interviews by brushing up on your modelling and testing skills related to semiconductor devices. Practical knowledge in these areas will be crucial for success in this role.
We think you need these skills to ace ELECTRONIC AND ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING: FULLY FUNDED EPSRC ICASE AND SIEMENS PHD SCHOLARSHIP: GA[...]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Project: Familiarise yourself with the specifics of the PhD project, especially the focus on GaN power devices and their applications in renewable energy. This will help you tailor your application to demonstrate your interest and understanding of the research area.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and personal statement, emphasise any relevant academic or research experience in electrical engineering, power electronics, or semiconductor technology. Mention specific projects or coursework that align with the scholarship's objectives.
Prepare a Strong Personal Statement: Craft a compelling personal statement that outlines your motivation for applying, your research interests, and how they align with the goals of the project. Be sure to mention your long-term career aspirations in the field of electrical engineering.
Check Language Requirements: Ensure you meet the English language requirements specified by Swansea University. If you need to provide proof of your language proficiency, make sure your IELTS scores or equivalent are ready and valid before submitting your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Swansea University
✨Understand the Project Scope
Familiarise yourself with the specifics of the project, especially the focus on GaN power devices and their applications in renewable energy. Being able to discuss how your background aligns with these objectives will show your genuine interest.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Prepare to discuss any previous projects or research that relate to power electronics or semiconductor technology. Highlighting your hands-on experience with similar technologies can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Be ready to tackle hypothetical scenarios related to the challenges in power conversion and energy efficiency. This will demonstrate your analytical thinking and ability to contribute to innovative solutions.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the research environment at Swansea University and the collaboration with Siemens. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
