PhD Studentship - Sustainable Multi-Sector Electrification Using Advanced Integrated Motor Drive Technologies

Electric motors and the systems they drive consume half of global electricity. These systems are typically very inefficient and contribute to a significant amount of energy wasted. By physically integrating power electronic converters and electrical machines we can use common structures and systems to greatly reduce, material usage and energy consumption.

Through a multidisciplinary research approach the aim is to establish fully integrated motor drives as a key enabling technology for sustainable electricity generation, high-efficiency industrial systems, lightweight transport applications, and significant reductions in manufacturing-related CO₂ emissions. The ambition is to develop innovative technological solutions that reduce energy losses and minimise environmental impact throughout the product life cycle by:

• Reducing material usage during manufacture.
• Improving electrical system efficiency and power-to-weight ratios during operation.
• Enhancing recyclability and resource recovery at end of life.

Projects are available to address one or more of the following scientific challenges:

1. Mechanical Integration

Structural and functional integration requires the development of novel joining technologies, motor winding arrangements, and 3D-printed structures capable of mounting semiconductor devices within the motor architecture.

2. Thermal Management

The harsh thermal environment within integrated motor drives demands innovative design and manufacturing solutions. Advanced additive manufacturing techniques will be explored to improve thermal management across the entire system.

3. Electromagnetic Management

The use of wide-bandgap semiconductor devices can significantly reduce the size of passive components within power electronic converters. However, their high switching speeds can introduce challenges related to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and motor winding degradation. Novel converter topologies, EMI mitigation strategies, and advanced winding technologies will therefore be investigated.

4. Advanced Control and Modelling

Multi-modular distributed motor-drive architectures and ultra-fast semiconductor devices present significant control challenges. Research may involve FPGA-based control platforms, advanced microcontrollers, distributed control algorithms, and artificial intelligence techniques, including neural networks and evolutionary optimisation methods, to enable the efficient operation of integrated converter-motor systems.

Research environment

Applications are invited to join the Power Electronics, Machines and Control (PEMC) Research Group at the University of Nottingham. Based within a recently established £18 million research facility on Jubilee Campus, PEMC is internationally recognised as a leading centre for research in power electronics, electrical machines, and control engineering.

Entry requirements

Applicants should possess:

• A Bachelor degree (2:1 or above) or a Master's degree (MSc, MEng, MPhys, MRes, or equivalent) in a relevant engineering or physical sciences discipline such as electrical and electronic engineering, mechatronics, physics, materials science, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a closely related subject.
• A strong background or relevant experience in electrical machines, power electronics, control systems, thermal management, or related fields (desirable).
• Experience using simulation software such as COMSOL Multiphysics, MATLAB, and/or Ansys.
• Programming, coding, and experimental hardware skills (desirable).
• Strong analytical and mathematical capabilities.
• A passion for research and a willingness to learn.
• Excellent presentation, communication, and scientific writing skills.

Application process

To apply, please email the following documents to liliana.delillo@nottingham.ac.uk:

• A cover letter outlining your motivation for applying to this project.
• A curriculum vitae (CV) detailing your academic background, research experience, and relevant technical skills.
• Academic transcripts from all qualifying degree programmes.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview. The successful applicant must subsequently complete a formal online application through the University of Nottingham admissions portal.

Eligibility

Due to funding restrictions, this studentship is available only to UK applicants.

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