Doctoral fellow

ABOUT GHENT UNIVERSITY

Ghent University is a top 100 university worldwide and one of the major universities in Belgium, with more than 44,000 students and 15,000 staff members. The Energy & Systems Laboratory (EnSy) at UGent is involved in a Flanders Make research project IMVEP., with a duration of 4 years.

YOUR TASKS

The IMVEP project focuses on multilevel inverters for applications with high DC bus voltages (up to 1200 V). The objective is to improve overall system efficiency (i.e., inverter + electric motor) and to increase the continuous power density of the electric motor. In addition, the possibility of eliminating sine-wave filters—typically required for conventional 2-level inverters—will be investigated.
Within this multi-partner project, EnSy will specifically focus on the T-type (3-level) inverter topology. The goal is to simulate, build, and experimentally validate an inverter for a 100 kW, 20,000 rpm motor.
As a PhD student, you will contribute to the simulation and modeling of the inverter and its integration with the electric motor. Following the modeling phase, you will design, build, and debug the inverter PCBs. You will also be responsible for implementing the control software on a rapid prototyping platform. In addition, you will develop a safe test setup and carry out experimental measurements on the inverter.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• You hold a master of science in engineering (technology), preferably in electromechanical or electrical engineering. 
• You are motivated, creative and have a passion for academic research. You have an affinity with both experimental research and simulation software. 
• You possess strong technical knowledge, expertise, and hands-on experience in the field of power electronics. Additional knowledge of electric motor design and the control of electric machines is considered an asset. 
• You have good communication skills in English. 
• You like challenging scientific research in a multidisciplinary and international context.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

• We offer a full-time position as a doctoral fellow, consisting of an initial period of 12 months, which - after a positive evaluation, will be extended to a total maximum of 48 months.
• The fellowship amount is 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances. The individual fellowship amount is determined by Team Personnel Administration based on family status and seniority. A grant that meets the conditions and criteria of the regulations for doctoral fellowships is considered free of personal income tax. Click here for more information about our salary scales
• All Ghent University staff members enjoy a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual fixed bridge days, bicycle allowance and eco vouchers. Click here for a complete overview of all the staff benefits.
• You will work at the Electrical Energy Laboratory in the Tech Lane Ghent Science Park in Zwijnaarde.

INTERESTED?

Applications may be sent by email to Hendrik.Vansompel@UGent.be and Peter.Sergeant@ugent.be. Application deadline is September 30, 2026. Please include cover letter and CV. Do not include reference letters, these will be solicited by us. Suitable candidates will be invited for an interview and may get a small assignment. We offer you a flexible starting date, with a preference to start as soon as possible. For more information about the topic of the PhD itself, please contact Hendrik.Vansompel@UGent.be.