PhD position for developing multi-physics models of planar inductors and transformers — ETH Zürich

Role overview

PhD position for developing multi-physics models of planar inductors and transformers 100%, Zurich, fixed-term print Drucken 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 Job description 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.