PhD Studentship: Electrical Machine Architectures for Next-Generation NetZero E-Mobility

This project offers an exciting opportunity to undertake cutting edge research in electrical machines within the globally renowned Power Electronics, Machines and Control (PEMC) Research Institute, University of Nottingham. The project will be supported by the state-of-the-art electric motor manufacturing line and testing platform at PEMC.

Motivation

Electrification is shaping the future of transportation sector, where next-generation electrical vehicles require motors that deliver high power density and exceptional efficiency at reasonable cost. However, most existing machines, particularly high-speed, radial-flux permanent magnet motors, are reaching their performance boundaries. As vehicle architectures evolve to integrate new transmissions, fuels, and energy storage solutions, this creates a timely opportunity to rethink the role of the electric motor within the drivetrain. Alternative machine topologies such as axial flux, transverse flux, and homopolar designs offer unique advantages by enabling 3D flux paths, novel cooling strategies, and increased architectural flexibility.

Aim

This PhD project aims to explore and optimise new electric machine topologies that go beyond conventional 2D radial designs. The candidate will investigate innovative electromagnetic configurations that leverage 3D flux paths to achieve higher power and torque density without compromising efficiency. Key challenges to be addressed include managing localised loss density and thermal gradients through advanced cooling integration, as well as using topology optimisation, soft magnetic materials (e.g., cobalt-iron alloys), and additive manufacturing to push performance boundaries. The research will seek optimal trade-offs between compactness and performance, delivering foundational insights into the future of high-performance electric propulsion systems.

Funding

• 3-year PhD tuition fee (for UK home or international students) fully funded.
• Competitive Tax-free annual stipend for 3 years.

Requirements

• The candidate should have a 1^st class degree (BEng or MEng/MSc) in electrical/mechanical engineering.
• Expertise in numerical tools (Ansys, JMAG, .etc) and programming are desirable.
• Experience in electrical machine prototype development would be advantageous.

Eligibility and Application

• The position is open for both UK home and international candidates. 
• PhD Start date: 1 October 2025 
• Application deadline: 10 June 2025

For further information please email Prof. Michele Degano: michele.degano@nottingham.ac.uk.

Facilities

The PEMC Institute is home to Driving the Electric Revolution Midlands Industrialisation Centre and the UK Electrification of Aerospace Propulsion Facilities, which have received over £20m of funding in the last three years. This 5000m² institute with state-of-the-art facilities for research into electrification technologies, hosting 21 academics, 60 post-doctoral researchers and over 80 PhD students, will be made available for this project. The university actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. 

Please apply here https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/pgstudy/how-to-apply/apply-online.aspx

When applying for this studentship, please include the reference number (beginning ENG and supervisors name) within the personal statement section of the application. This will help in ensuring your application is sent directly to the academic advertising the studentship. 

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

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