High Power Density Converter Topologies for Pulsed Power Applications

This project will contribute to a major research initiative intended to develop generation-after-next technologies for applications in defence and security, and will be co-funded and supported by Ultra Maritime.

The project will see the successful applicant explore advanced converter topologies that can handle high peak power levels and maintain efficiency while delivering short-duration pulses. Invaluable expertise in the fast moving domains of EMT modelling and hardware-in-the-loop experimentation, power electronics, power systems, pulsed power, and marine systems will be developed during the studentship, enhanced by specialist training including national summer schools and industry placements.

 The main objectives of this project are: 

·        Research into the design and optimisation of specific power converter topologies using both simulation and experimental validation.

·        Evaluation of advanced semi-conductor devices to enhance converter efficiency and power density.

·        Investigation of innovative control strategies and modulation techniques to ensure accurate and precise pulse generation, response time, and robustness.

The student will thus develop skills and experience in a domain commanding strong demand in the jobs market, and fundamental to the electrification of many sectors.

The PhD candidate undertaking this project will be part of the EPSRC Energy Transfer Technology Skills and Training (S&T) Hub. The main aim of the S&T Hub, a Doctoral Training Centre, is to train the next generation of leaders in energy transfer technologies spanning a range of applications. The Hub is supported by UK Government and many major high technology companies working in electrical power conversion and electromagnetics.

Each student funded by the Hub will have an industrial partner and have opportunities to work with and train alongside experts from industry. The Hub provides individuals training for both research and industrial career paths.

The student for this project will be based at the University of Strathclyde and will be part of a cohort of 12 PhD students across a number of leading UK institutions. The Skills and Training Hub will run online and face-to-face activities to facilitate cohort building and group learning exercises throughout the PhD programme. The duration of the PhD is 4 years, and is available for starting immediately.

The student will conduct their research from the Institute for Energy & Environment (InstEE) within the Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, one of Europe’s strongest academic centres for electrical power engineering research. Access will be provided to world-class research infrastructures, including bench-top development rigs, the DPSL microgrid and the PNDC’s MW-scale and multi-stressor test environment. 

This unique opportunity will position the successful candidate for class-leading research and career advancement.

The industrial partner, Ultra Maritime, is a major international company with capability in delivering mission critical systems in defence, security and control environments. Ultra Maritime’s technologies can be found on many of the world’s long-term military programmes. Globally, it employs around 4,500 employees primarily within the USA, Canada, UK and Australia. Ultra Maritime will support PhD supervision, provide a placement within the ‘Signature Management and Power’ sector and be part of the larger S&T hub community benefiting in the diverse academic and industrial network offered by the S&T hub.

Eligibility

PhD candidates must hold a minimum of an upper Second Class UK Honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant science or engineering discipline. Post-experience candidates looking for new and accelerated career prospects in electrical engineering are welcome. Candidates must be UK Nationals.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

The S&T Hub is committed to providing an inclusive environment in which diverse students can thrive. The Hub particularly encourages applications from women, disabled and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates, who are currently under-represented in the sector. We can also consider part time PhD students. We also encourage talented individuals from various backgrounds, with either an UG or MSc in a numerate subject and people with ambition and an interest in making a difference.  

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor quoting reference “PhD-S&T2404” for this project before you apply.