Maeve Duffy

The University of Galway is offering a 2-year postdoctoral research position in the Power Electronics Research Centre, funded by Rinn Semiconductors and conducted in close collaboration with the Tyndall National Institute. The project, “High Step-down Power Converter Topologies for AI Computing with Optimal 3D Transformers-on-silicon,” will investigate novel high step-down-ratio DC/DC power converter topologies for high-performance computing loads. The target conversion ratios are 400/800:1 V, addressing power-delivery requirements associated with AI computing. The research will focus on designing converter architectures suitable for existing and emerging magnetics-on-silicon devices, including transformers and inductors developed at the Tyndall National Institute. The work combines power electronics, semiconductor technology, magnetics-on-silicon, and high-performance computing applications within a collaborative research environment involving the University of Galway, Rinn Semiconductors, and Tyndall National Institute.

A fully funded PhD scholarship is available at the University of Galway in the School of Engineering, affiliated with the Power Electronics Research Centre (PERC) and delivered in close collaboration with the Tyndall National Institute. The project sits within the Research Ireland-funded RINN Semiconductors Centre and focuses on power converter topologies for AI computing using optimal 3D magnetics-on-silicon. The research is part of RINN’s Heterogeneous Integration theme and aims to support the development of advanced semiconductor integration technologies for future chiplet-based systems. In this project, the successful candidate will work on DC/DC power converter design for high-performance computing loads, develop equivalent-circuit models for magnetics-on-silicon devices, characterise inductors and transformers under realistic circuit conditions, and design, build, and test a prototype converter to benchmark against state-of-the-art solutions. The scholarship offers a living allowance of €25,000 per year, tax-exempt, and EU tuition fees are covered for up to four years (2026–2030). The start date is 1 October 2026. The post is based at the University of Galway in Ireland, with close research collaboration with Tyndall National Institute in Galway. Applicants should normally hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree with at least a 2.1 or equivalent in Electrical & Electronic Engineering or a closely related subject. Strong preparation in power electronics design, modelling and simulation is expected, ideally with experience in magnetic component design, prototyping, testing, and technical report writing. Excellent English communication, analytical ability, organisation, and interpersonal skills are also highlighted as important. To apply, candidates must email a single PDF CV and cover letter to Prof. Maeve Duffy at [email protected], using the required subject line “PhD Application – RINN Semiconductor.” The deadline is 14 September 2026 at 17:00 (Europe/Dublin).

Applications are invited for a full-time, fully funded PhD scholarship at the University of Galway in Ireland, affiliated with the Power Electronics Research Centre (PERC) in the School of Engineering and the RINN Energy Centre . This project sits within the Smart Connected Cities and Communities theme and focuses on the operational optimisation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations for maximum energy efficiency. The research aims to understand how aggregated EVs and charging stations can participate in flexible grid services through intelligent load scheduling, on-site battery storage, and coordinated use of renewable energy sources. Research tasks include profiling EV charging demand, characterising demand response potential, developing an electrical energy system model for charging stations, and accounting for efficiency and practical limitations across power conversion stages. The project will evaluate public and commercial fleet charging stations, explore services such as demand response and peak shaving, and develop optimisation methods to improve energy efficiency while maintaining or improving economic performance. A small-scale prototype system will also be designed, built, and tested to validate the proposed methods, with results scaled to a national context. The scholarship is funded by Research Ireland under the RINN Energy Centre and is linked to Horizon Europe-aligned goals around smart, secure, and resilient energy systems, decarbonising cities, and supporting net-zero ambitions. Collaboration is expected with theme PIs at Technological University Dublin and University College Dublin , as well as the wider RINN consortium. Funding includes a €25,000 per year tax-exempt stipend , EU tuition fees covered for up to four years, and additional support for research activities such as conferences and training. Non-EU applicants may apply for an international fee waiver. Eligible applicants should have a bachelor's or master's degree in Electrical & Electronic Engineering or a closely related field, with experience in energy systems modelling, renewable energy, batteries, power electronics, techno-economic analysis, demonstrator development, and technical writing. Strong analytical, communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills are emphasized. The application deadline is 24 August 2026 at 17:00 Irish time . Applicants must email a single PDF CV and cover letter to Prof. Maeve Duffy at [email protected] , using the specified subject line.