Doctoral Researcher in Power Electronics (DSII)
Tampere University invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher position in Power Electronics within the Doctoral School of Industry Innovations (DSII). This four-year, full-time PhD opportunity is embedded in a vibrant multidisciplinary research environment, with a strong focus on technology, health, and society. The DSII programme is designed to bridge academia and industry, offering doctoral researchers the chance to tackle real-world business challenges and expand their professional networks. The partner company for this position is GE Vernova, a global leader in energy technology, supporting the transition to sustainable energy systems.
The research project aims to advance the field of power electronics by developing control methods for utility-scale power electronic converters, specifically those operating as static synchronous compensators (STATCOMs). The project involves creating software tools for the design, testing, and validation of these control methods. The research workflow includes simulation (e.g., Matlab), hardware-in-the-loop simulation, and implementation on a low-voltage lab prototype. Doctoral researchers will also contribute to teaching (about 5% of annual working hours) and participate in DSII events, excursions, and training sessions, fostering peer support and professional development.
Supervision is provided by Associate Professor Dr. Petros Karamanakos, with additional guidance from company representatives and practitioners in the steering group. The research group "Power Electronic Systems" at the Electrical Engineering Unit, Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, focuses on modulation and control techniques for power electronic systems, optimal control, computational intelligence, mathematical programming, and embedded systems. The vision is to develop software solutions that maximize the capabilities of power electronic hardware, with applications in variable speed drives and grid-connected converters.
Applicants must hold a higher university degree in electrical engineering or a related discipline. Essential skills and interests include power electronics, control theory, mathematics and optimization, embedded programming, and microprocessors. Candidates should demonstrate independent thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities, along with proficiency in English (written and spoken). Before starting, the selected candidate must secure a study right within the doctoral programme at Tampere University unless already enrolled.
The position is fixed-term for four years, starting in October 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The starting salary is approximately 2800 EUR/month, increasing up to about 3600 EUR/month as the doctoral degree progresses. The university offers a range of staff benefits, including occupational health care, flexible working hours, excellent sports facilities, and staff discounts at campus restaurants and cafés. Tampere is a dynamic academic hub in Finland, known for its knowledge-intensive entrepreneurial community and vibrant cultural scene.
To apply, submit your application via the Tampere University online recruitment system by June 30th, 2026. Required documents include a motivation letter, CV (with two referees), list of publications, degree certificates, and transcript of records (master's degree studies). All documents must be in English and attached in PDF format. For further information, contact Associate Professor Petros Karamanakos at [email protected].
