2 PhD positions on Measuring the Future of Power Electronics University of Twente in Netherlands

The University of Twente is recruiting two fully funded PhD researchers to join the EU Chips Joint Undertaking project Moore4Power and advance the measurement science needed for next-generation power electronics. The project focuses on the challenge of accurately measuring ultra-efficient converters built with wide-bandgap semiconductor devices such as SiC and GaN, where losses are so small that bandwidth, traceability, calibration, and uncertainty analysis become critical.

The two PhD projects are closely connected. PhD 1 focuses on wideband current sensors for fast-switching power electronics. The work includes electromagnetic sensor design, modelling, prototype fabrication, experimental validation, and calibration, with ambitious targets such as bandwidth above 300 MHz and insertion inductance below 1 nH. PhD 2 focuses on traceable efficiency measurement using electrical and thermal methods. This includes characterization of wideband voltage/current sensors, calibration and uncertainty evaluation, development of a next-generation calorimeter, and comparison of electrical and calorimetric efficiency measurements for SiC- and GaN-based converters.

The researchers will work as a team and benefit from strong collaboration between the University of Twente, VSL (the Dutch National Metrology Institute), and industrial and academic partners across Europe. The positions sit at the interface of measurement science, power electronics, electromagnetics, thermal engineering, and experimental instrumentation. The research environment offers access to advanced laboratories, regular project meetings, technical exchanges, and work visits, with a strong emphasis on scientific independence and practical impact.

Applicants should have a relevant MSc degree and strong experimental academic results. For PhD 1, backgrounds in electrical engineering, analogue electronics, RF/microwave engineering, or high-frequency measurement are especially suitable. For PhD 2, backgrounds in electrical engineering, applied physics, measurement science, instrumentation, or experimental physics are preferred. Helpful experience includes electromagnetic or circuit simulation, PCB design, vector network analysis, oscilloscope measurements, precision metrology, uncertainty analysis, power converter testing, thermal modelling, and calorimetry. Strong English communication skills and willingness to travel are also expected.

The positions are fully funded for four years and come with a salary under the Dutch university collective labour agreement, starting at €3,204 per month in the first year and rising to €4,051 per month in the fourth year, plus holiday allowance, end-of-year bonus, pension, and leave benefits. The intended start is autumn 2026.

Application deadline: 16 October 2026. Candidates must submit a motivation letter specifying whether they apply for PhD 1, PhD 2, or both, a detailed CV, publication list if applicable, contact details for at least two references, and BSc/MSc transcripts with grades. The selection process includes an interview and a short technical presentation.