Postdoctoral Fellow in Degradation in Solid Insulation Systems under Pulsed Repetitive High Voltage Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is offering a full-time, three-year postdoctoral fellowship in the Department of Electric Energy, focusing on degradation and breakdown in solid insulation systems under stresses from power electronics converters (PECs). The project is part of the SwoP initiative, which aims to develop methods to measure, characterize, and predict increased stresses and accelerated degradation in power components exposed to fast PECs. This research is highly relevant for applications in zero-emission transport, renewable energy, and electric power transmission, supporting global climate goals. The postdoctoral fellow will investigate failure modes in electrical insulation, such as partial discharges (PD) and dielectric heating, and will perform aging studies combined with diagnostics like PD measurement and dielectric spectroscopy. The project also involves analyzing mechanical and chemical deterioration of insulation materials to improve electric withstand strength and develop novel, lightweight insulation systems for electric propulsion and renewable energy generation. The position is based in Trondheim, Norway, with a one-year exchange at the University of Bologna (UniBo), and close collaboration with SINTEF Energy Research and several industry partners. The main supervisor is Professor Kaveh Niayesh (NTNU), with co-supervisors Professor Andrea Cavallini (UniBo) and Dr. Espen Eberg (SINTEF Energy Research). Applicants must have a doctoral degree in Electric Power Engineering, Physics, Material Science, or Electrical Engineering, and demonstrate strong English language proficiency. Experience in high voltage engineering, power electronics, and laboratory setups is preferred. The position offers a gross annual salary of NOK 604,900 before tax, with favorable terms in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund and access to employee benefits. NTNU values diversity and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds. The application process requires submission of a cover letter, project outline, CV, transcripts, thesis, academic works, English proficiency documentation, and references via Jobbnorge.no by November 20, 2025. The successful candidate will join a dynamic, international research environment and contribute to high-impact scientific publications and presentations.