Ghent University
Overview
- Department: TW08 - Department of Electromechanical, Systems and Metal Engineering
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:
- Improving overall system efficiency (inverter + electric motor)
- Increasing the continuous power density of the electric motor
- 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:
- Contribute to the simulation and modeling of the inverter and its integration with the electric motor
- Design, build, and debug the inverter PCBs
- Implement the control software on a rapid prototyping platform
- Develop a safe test setup and carry out experimental measurements on the inverter
What We Are Looking For
- Master of Science in Engineering (Technology), preferably in electromechanical or electrical engineering
- Motivated, creative, with a passion for academic research
- Affinity with both experimental research and simulation software
- Strong technical knowledge and hands-on experience in power electronics
- Additional knowledge of electric motor design and control of electric machines is an asset
- Good communication skills in English
- Interest in challenging scientific research in a multidisciplinary and international context
What We Can Offer You
- Full-time position as a doctoral fellow, initially 12 months, extendable to a maximum of 48 months after positive evaluation
- Fellowship amount: 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances. Fellowship is tax-free under regulations for doctoral fellowships
- Benefits include:
- Wide range of training and education opportunities
- 36 days of annual holiday leave plus fixed bridge days
- Bicycle allowance and eco vouchers
- Work location: Electrical Energy Laboratory, Tech Lane Ghent Science Park, Zwijnaarde
Interested?
Applications may be sent by email to:
- Hendrik.Vansompel@UGent.be
- Peter.Sergeant@ugent.be
Include: cover letter and CV (reference letters not required at application stage).
- Suitable candidates will be invited for an interview and may receive a small assignment
- Flexible starting date, preference to start as soon as possible
- For more information about the PhD topic, contact: Hendrik.Vansompel@UGent.be
Application deadline: September 30, 2026