Solid state substation techniques for future electrical energy networks
This exciting opportunity is based within the Power Electronics, Machines and Control (PEMC) research group in the Faculty of Engineering at the 海角黑料 which conducts cutting edge research into power electronics for energy management and decarbonisation.
Vision
We are seeking a PhD student who is motivated and passionate about the design and control of power electronics technologies that make real-world impact. Together we will make technological advances that bring compact, reliable, and economical energy management.
Motivation
This PhD project focuses on the development of next-generation power electronics in the form of Solid-State Transformers (SST) which will provide key functionality in the electricity networks of the future which will feed, for example, high power charging systems and data centres and link renewable energy sources and energy storage elements.
Aim
The aim of the project is to consider the use of modern power electronics in multi-cellular converters to form Solid State Transformer systems. This will require a study of the current state of the art in SST topologies and control before developing new techniques for both to meet the demands of new loads such as high-power EV charging systems and data centres.
You will work with Dr Alan Watson, Dr Tabish Mir, and Professor Pat Wheeler at the 海角黑料’s Power Electronics and Machines Centre, which is a purpose-built £18M facility at Jubilee Campus. The PEMC research group is globally renowned and one of the leading research entities in its field.
The work is supported by Siemens AG, Germany and will be led at the facility in Erlangen by Dr Gopal Mondal.
Candidate requirements
We are actively looking for candidates with:
- A first-class (UK equivalent) undergraduate degree in electrical and/or electronics engineering
- A master’s degree in electrical engineering - particularly power electronics and/or electric drives - is desirable. Preferably Distinction (UK equivalent)
- Knowledge of simulation platforms like MATLAB Simulink/PLEC
- Coding and hardware skills are desirable
- Strong analytical/mathematical skills
- Passion about research and willingness to learn
- Good presentation, communication, and writing skills
Funding and eligibility
This studentship is open to UK/home candidates only.
After a suitable candidate is found, funding is sought from the 海角黑料 as part of a competitive process. This will cover home tuition fees and UKRI stipend plus a £5,500 a year top-up from the industrial partner.
The 海角黑料 actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. We - the Faculty of Engineering - provide a thriving working environment for all our postgraduate researchers (PGRs) creating a strong sense of community across research disciplines. We understand that research culture is important to our PGRs so we work closely with our and PGR research group representatives to support and enhance the postgraduate research environment.
As a PGR at the 海角黑料 you will benefit from training through our Researcher Academy’s training programme. Based within the Faculty of Engineering you will have additional access to courses developed specifically for our engineering and architecture PGRs including sessions on how to write a paper, communicating your research, and research integrity.
We offer dedicated postgraduate study spaces, have outstanding research facilities and work in partnership with leading industrial partners.
How to apply
Closing date: 18 July 2026.
For information on the application process please email Dr Alan Watson alan.watson@nottingham.ac.uk