PhD: Development of Next-generation grid-ready smart inverter for super home

The Intelligent Grid (iG) Research team at International Energy Research Centre (IERC), Tyndall National Institute, University College, Cork, invites applications for a PhD Studentship in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. The successful candidate will contribute to developing a next-generation grid-ready inverter to address the smooth integration and control of Super Home DERs and Appliances (Heat Pump, Electric Vehicle, etc) in the Irish Low Voltage Distribution Network (LVDN). The Centre has well-established researchers with extensive Smart Grid and Renewable Energy system integration expertise. We are seeking well-qualified and highly self-motivated applicants to apply for this position.

Key Responsibilities and Research Objectives

This studentship will aim to design, develop and test a next-generation grid-ready smart inverter and associated controllers to participate in the future electricity market, provide ancillary services and reduce the cost of energy. An evaluation board for the experiment will be developed, and the solutions will be validated in the real-time PHIL experimental environment. The successful applicant will carry out independent and innovative research that will lead to high-impact publications while developing advanced solutions within a research team. We encourage applicants with additional interest in power electronics and control system engineering.

Other responsibilities

• Engage in the dissemination of the results of the research, as directed by and with the support of senior research staff.
• Collaborate with colleagues and the industrial partner to achieve the most impactful outcomes.
• Reporting and presenting the work regularly (internal and external)
• Participate in Education and Public Engagement activities, as required.
• Ensure all activities comply with the Tyndall Quality Management system and required Health and safety standards.
• Carry out any additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the post.

Essential Criteria

• First or upper second-class honours degree in electrical/control/communication engineering or similar with educational experience in power electronics converter design for renewable and energy storage systems.
• Demonstrable English language proficiency (UCC requirement) is essential.
• Experience with appropriate lab equipment, simulation tools and modelling software (Matlab, RT-Lab, Plex, Python, etc).
• An ability to work independently to a schedule.
• A demonstrated capability in the delivery of research projects at the undergraduate level.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• High levels of initiative, self-management, achievement orientation and motivation are encouraged.

Desirable Criteria

• MSc in a related discipline
• Experience in Analog/Digital/Power electronics-based converters modelling and experiments.

This studentship will be based in the International Energy Research Centre (IERC) at Tyndall National Institute, University College Cork.

For any informal queries, please contact or Dr Sandipan Patra (sandipan.patra@ierc.ie) or Dr Shafi Khadem (shafi.khadem@ierc.ie)

An annual student stipend of €25,000 applies to this successful candidate for this position. In addition, yearly University academic fees will be paid by the Tyndall National Institute.