A PhD studentship is available in the Power Electronics and Energy Conversion Group of the Electrical Engineering Division of Cambridge University Department of Engineering. The project, supported by Jaguar LandRover, focuses on the low voltage electrical system of cars. The student will work as part of an established automotive electronics team at Cambridge.

The increased introduction of high electrical power rating components into vehicles for power train and comfort applications has led peak currents of up to 200 A in present-day power systems. Much of the load is transient in nature and causes difficulties in terms of maintaining voltage stability in the vehicle's electrical system, leading to possible malfunction and premature failure of system components. There can also be adverse impacts on the power train. As the power ratings of the vehicle electrical loads continue to increase in the future, the magnitudes of the voltage transients in the electrical system and the torque transients in the power-train are also likely to increase, and the problems associated with them become even more significant. The planned project in which the student will play a key role involves investigation the nature of the transients that are likely to be seen with the loads in future vehicles, determining the power system parameters that are most influential in controlling their severity and look at the approaches that can be taken to reduce them in coming years. It is anticipated that these approaches will include improved alternator system design, better electrical system management and application of corrective electronics.

Applicants should have, or expect to have, at least the equivalent of a UK II.1 honours degree (and preferably a Masters) in electrical/electronic engineering. Experience in one or more of electrical machine modelling, control theory and power systems would be desirable. The project is of a practical nature and candidates with experience of designing and implementing power electronics and/or embedded systems would be beneficial.

Except in exceptional circumstances only tuition fees for UK/EU students will be met in full. An annual maintenance grant at EPSRC rates (currently £13863 pa) will also be available.

The studentship is available from October 2015. Applications should include a CV, including contact details for two academic/industrial referees. Applications should be sent to Sue Frost (smf47<στο>cam.ac.uk)

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