PhD Candidate / PhD Candidate

ETH Zurich - December 10, 2025

PhD Candidate for Developing Highly Efficient and Ultra-Wide Range Converter Systems for DC Power Supplies

100%, Zurich, Fixed-term

The Laboratory for High Power Electronic Systems (HPE) at the Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering of ETH Zurich is at the forefront of international research on power electronic converter systems. These systems are essential for the future of energy distribution, aiding in the integration of renewable energy sources and enhancing traction applications and electric vehicles. Our research also extends to solid-state pulse modulators for medical applications, such as computer tomography and cancer treatment, as well as advanced systems like those utilized at CERN. We are currently seeking a PhD Candidate (100%) dedicated to developing highly efficient and ultra-wide range converter systems for DC power supplies.

Job Description

We are looking for highly motivated individuals with an outstanding academic background who are eager to pursue a PhD in the fields of converter topologies and modulation strategies for low-power DC supplies, aiming for exceptional efficiency across a wide range of input voltages. These supply systems are crucial for applications that power actuators and sensors in facility automation, often functioning in standby mode or operating at low loads, with peak output only needed briefly for active phases. While the individual power levels may appear modest, cumulative global consumption underscores the necessity of high efficiency in these systems to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with facility automation.

To advance efficiency standards in such DC supplies, you will develop innovative converter concepts for AC/DC power supplies that maintain high efficiency even at low output levels. Subsequently, you will create multi-physics models for all relevant components, aimed at maximizing the performance of these new converter designs. These models will be integrated into optimization procedures for power electronic converter systems efficiently, enabling comprehensive system efficiency enhancements across diverse applications. As part of an ongoing modeling framework project at HPE, you will collaborate with fellow PhD candidates on various modeling aspects. Additionally, you will validate these models and optimization results through the development and operation of various test setups and prototype systems in partnership with an industry collaborator. Finally, you will explore the integration of these groundbreaking converter concepts into power integrated circuits, potentially incorporating additional functionalities and achieving long-term system cost reductions.

Profile

  • You must possess a diploma/M.Sc. degree in electrical engineering with excellent grades.
  • Fundamental knowledge of power electronic converter systems.
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Fluency in English.
  • A commitment to collaborating fully as part of an international team.
  • A keen interest in the detailed modeling and design of magnetic components and the optimization of power electronic systems.

Workplace

Your working environment will be within a dynamic and internationally renowned laboratory, part of one of the world's leading technical universities.

We Offer

  • Impactful work: Join ETH Zurich, where you can contribute to meaningful change in society while advancing your professional development.
  • A commitment to sustainability and climate neutrality as a core value of the university.
  • Numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets, car sharing, extensive sports offerings by ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.
  • A challenging and intellectually stimulating full-time position within a vibrant team at a premier technical institution.
  • Encouragement to participate in international conferences, along with a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and outstanding research facilities for your experiments.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture that promotes equality of opportunity, values diversity, and nurtures respectful working and learning environments. We are actively working towards a climate-neutral future, ensuring that all staff and students can thrive.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application, which should include the following documents:

  • Comprehensive CV
  • Your B.S. and M.Sc. transcripts
  • Electronic copies of your B.Sc./M.Sc. thesis and/or publications (if available)
  • Names and addresses of references

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is among the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for our excellent education, we excel in cutting-edge research and the direct transfer of knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, ETH Zurich fosters an environment that encourages independent thinking and collaboration in addressing global challenges.

Location : Zürich
Country : Switzerland

Application Form

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