PhD Position in Corrosion Mechanisms of Power Semiconductor Devices under Environmental Stressors Technical University of Denmark in Denmark

The Materials and Surface Engineering section at the Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Denmark (DTU), invites applications for a fully funded PhD position focused on the corrosion mechanisms of power semiconductor devices, specifically IGBT and SiC Power MOSFET components and layouts. This research is part of the Center for Climate Robust Electronic Design project, funded by the Poul Due Jensens Foundation, and offers collaboration opportunities with leading industries in electric vehicles and renewable energy systems.

The project aims to systematically investigate how environmental stressors—such as humidity, temperature, and reactive gases—impact the long-term reliability and performance of high-voltage, high-power semiconductor devices. These stressors can induce corrosion and electrochemical degradation, accelerating failure mechanisms like electrochemical and anodic migration, which are not yet fully understood. The research will utilize experimental testing and advanced characterization techniques to study corrosion effects, focusing on electrochemical interactions, gel substrate degradation, and interfacial transport phenomena.

In addition to experimental work, the project will develop advanced simulation models using Multiphysics tools (e.g., ANSYS, COMSOL) to predict moisture and gas transport through gel substrates and interfacial layers within semiconductor packages. The impact of corrosion and moisture ingress on device parameters such as switching losses, efficiency, gate stress, and thermal performance will be quantified. The outcomes will inform material and design guidelines for improved environmental robustness, including optimized Cu pad and gel substrate compositions for IGBTs and enhanced design configurations for SiC-based devices.

Applicants should hold a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or equivalent, with specialization in materials science and engineering, corrosion science, or related fields. Candidates with a background in electronics or electrical engineering and experience in humidity/corrosion reliability of electronics are also encouraged to apply. Prior experience in corrosion of electronics or similar topics is advantageous, and a combination of expertise in electronics, materials, corrosion, and reliability is preferred.

The PhD position is for three years, with employment terms based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The starting date is expected to be 1 February 2026 or as mutually agreed. The successful candidate will be enrolled in one of DTU's general PhD degree programmes, subject to academic approval. DTU offers a dynamic, international research environment with a commitment to academic excellence, collegial respect, and scientific innovation.

For further information, contact Professor Rajan Ambat ([email protected]) or Dr. Kapil Kumar Gupta ([email protected]). More details about the Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering can be found at www.construct.dtu.dk. International applicants are welcome and can access resources on working in Denmark and at DTU, including monthly seminars on PhD relocation and startup.

To apply, submit your complete online application by 26 November 2025 via the provided application link. All materials must be in English and combined into a single PDF file, including a cover letter, CV, grade transcripts, and diplomas. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. DTU encourages applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, gender, disability, race, religion, or ethnic background.