Postdoctoral Fellow in Electromechanical Engineering
Ghent University
Belgium
Overview
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Department: TW08 - Department of Electromechanical, Systems and Metal Engineering
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Occupancy rate: 100%
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Vacancy type: Research staff
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Application deadline: September 30, 2026, 23:59
About Ghent University
Ghent University is a top 100 university worldwide and one of the major universities in Belgium, with more than 44,000 students and 15,000 staff members. The Energy & Systems Laboratory (EnSy) at UGent is involved in a Flanders Make research project IMVEP, with a duration of 4 years.
Your Tasks
The IMVEP project focuses on multilevel inverters for applications with high DC bus voltages (up to 1200 V). The objectives include:
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Improving overall system efficiency (inverter + electric motor)
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Increasing the continuous power density of the electric motor
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Investigating the possibility of eliminating sine-wave filters required for conventional 2-level inverters
Within this multi-partner project, EnSy will specifically focus on the T-type (3-level) inverter topology. The goal is to simulate, build, and experimentally validate an inverter for a 100 kW, 20,000 rpm motor.
As a PhD student, you will:
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Contribute to the simulation and modeling of the inverter and its integration with the electric motor
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Design, build, and debug the inverter PCBs
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Implement the control software on a rapid prototyping platform
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Develop a safe test setup and carry out experimental measurements on the inverter
What We Are Looking For
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Master of Science in Engineering (Technology), preferably in electromechanical or electrical engineering
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Motivated, creative, with a passion for academic research
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Affinity with both experimental research and simulation software
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Strong technical knowledge and hands-on experience in power electronics
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Additional knowledge of electric motor design and control of electric machines is an asset
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Good communication skills in English
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Interest in challenging scientific research in a multidisciplinary and international context
What We Can Offer You
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Full-time position as a doctoral fellow, initially 12 months, extendable to a maximum of 48 months after positive evaluation
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Fellowship amount: 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances. Fellowship is tax-free under regulations for doctoral fellowships
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Benefits include:
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Wide range of training and education opportunities
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36 days of annual holiday leave plus fixed bridge days
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Bicycle allowance and eco vouchers
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Work location: Electrical Energy Laboratory, Tech Lane Ghent Science Park, Zwijnaarde
Interested?
Applications may be sent by email to:
Include: cover letter and CV (reference letters not required at application stage).
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Suitable candidates will be invited for an interview and may receive a small assignment
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Flexible starting date, preference to start as soon as possible
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For more information about the PhD topic, contact: Hendrik.Vansompel@UGent.be
Application deadline: September 30, 2026
In your application, please refer to Polytechnicpositions.com
