Postdoctoral Research Associate

This project will investigate rare-earth magnets free axial-flux electric machines (AFEMs). Axial-flux electric machines (AFEMs) are getting increasingly important in many applications, such as electric vehicles, due to their advantages, including higher power density and smaller volume, which make them less iron and copper-dependent, lighter, and more environmentally friendly when compared with radial-flux electric machines. Magnets are an essential component of excitation in AFEMs. Although rare-earth magnets produce designs that satisfy small volume, high-power density design criteria, they are not cost-effective. They are det rimental to the environment due to the required mining operation. Therefore, the project will aim to investigate Rare-Earth-Elements (REE)-Free magnetic materials used in AFEM design, which can potentially minimise the negative impacts of rare-earth magnets.

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Engineering with particular emphasis on investigating Rare-Earth-Elements (REE)-Free Axial-flux electric machines (AFEMs). The research project is funded by Durham University Grant Seedcorn Funds and led by Dr Nur Sarma at Durham University ().

The successful applicant will be expected to conduct research that involves analysing and investigating various magnetic materials and their potential usage in REE-free AFEMs.

The post-holder is employed to work on research/a research project which will be led by another colleague. Whilst this means that the post-holder will not be carrying out independent research in his/her own right, the expectation is that they will contribute to the advancement of the project, through the development of their own research ideas/adaptation and development of research protocols.

This post is part time and fixed term for 6 months as the project funding is available for a fixed period only - there is no flexibility.

Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post by 01/09/2024.

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