Research Masters – High-Frequency DC–DC Power Conversion

Research Masters – High-Frequency DC–DC Power ConversionAbout TyndallTyndall National Institute is an international leader in semiconductors, photonics and deep-tech research and innovation. As a leading collaborative European research institute, Tyndall is a key actor and hosting partner in the delivery of the ‘Chips for Europe Initiative’ (EU Chips Act).Tyndall is Ireland’s leading research and innovation organisation and it is the national focal point for excellence in deep-tech research, development and graduate training at the convergence of nanotechnology, microelectronics, photonics, electronics and AI. Tyndall is recognised as an international research leader in semiconductor, chip and digital technologies, particularly as applied to the fields of Information & Communications, Health & Life Sciences, Agritech & Food Security, Energy and Climate Mitigation, emerging fields such as quantum, and novel computing paradigms.The Institute’s key objective is to see frontier research activities having a significant impact on economic development and societal challenges in Ireland, Europe and beyond. Central to Tyndall’s mission is delivering economic impact through research excellence in partnership with industry and academia. With an annual turnover of more than €50m, the Institute has a community of over 600 researchers, engineers, support staff, postgraduate students, interns and industry researchers-in-residence.With significant committed Irish government support, Tyndall will grow to be 1,000 people by 2030, with approximately 750 researchers, including 250 PhD students. A new 17,000 m2 research building is under development adjacent to the Cork headquarters and there are developing plans to expand Tyndall’s existing Dublin research labs and to establish other research sites within Ireland.Tyndall’s expansion is also supported by recent national and EU funding wins for significant (M€10’s) additional research equipment across a range of areas such as semiconductor processing, microscopy, quantum technologies, heterogeneous integration, ultra-high speed optical communications and RF through THz characterisation.About the TeamThe successful candidate will join a research team working in power electronics, integrated power conversion and high-frequency DC–DC converters. The team conducts research on advanced power-converter technologies, including semiconductor devices, magnetic components, thermal management, modelling and experimental validation for next-generation power conversion applications.About the RoleThis two-year Research Masters project will investigate high-frequency DC–DC power conversion, with a focus on converter modelling, design, optimisation and experimental validation. The student will develop research skills in power electronics through a combination of literature review, simulation, component modelling, hardware development and laboratory testing.Key Duties & ResponsibilitiesThe student will undertake research activities in high-frequency DC–DC power conversion through modelling, simulation and experimental work. The work will include the study and optimisation of converter performance and the validation of research findings through laboratory measurements.Key activities will include:Conduct a literature review on high-frequency DC–DC converters, power-conversion technologies and relevant semiconductor and passive-component technologiesDevelop simulation and analytical models for high-frequency DC–DC converters, including semiconductor devices, magnetic components, losses, efficiency and thermal performanceSupport the design, development and experimental testing of power-converter hardware; analyse measurement data; and contribute to the publication and dissemination of research outcomes through technical reports, conference/journal papers, presentations and other appropriate research channelsParticipate and support in Education and Public Engagement activities, as requiredEnsure support for and compliance with Tyndall’s Quality Management Systems, Health and Safety standards, and other regulationsTo carry out any additional duties that may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the postEssential CriteriaA primary degree (normally a Bachelor’s degree) in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Power Electronics, Microelectronics or a closely related discipline, at a standard which suitably supports admission to a UCC Research Masters programmeStrong fundamentals in power electronics, including DC–DC converter operation, switching devices, passive components and loss/efficiency analysisAbility to use engineering simulation and numerical modelling tools for circuit/system analysis and data processingAbility to undertake practical laboratory support work, including converter prototyping, electrical measurements and safe operation of power-electronics hardwareGood analytical, problem-solving and written/oral communication skills, with the ability to work impartially and as part of a research teamDesirable CriteriaKnowledge or project experience in integrated voltage regulators, point-of-load converters, voltage-regulator modules or AI/HPC power deliveryExperience with magnetic-component design or modelling, including inductor sizing, core/winding loss, saturation and thermal constraintsFamiliarity with semiconductor device characterisation or compact modelling, including MOSFET/GaN conduction and switching losses; experience with a PMIC/semiconductor PDK is advantageous but not requiredExperience with thermal modelling, finite-element tools, PCB design, or laboratory thermal/electrical characterisationProgramming experience (for example Python, MATLAB or equivalent) for optimisation, parameter sweeps, data analysis and model validationEvidence of research communication or dissemination, such as a final-year thesis, technical report, conference presentation, poster, publication, or other scientific/engineering communicationWhat We OfferA generous tax-free scholarship stipend payment including tuition fees covered20 days per annum annual leave for full-time research students, in addition to public holidaysFull coverage of travel expenses to international conferences to present project outcomesTraining and development opportunities are also providedMardyke Sports Arena -Students – free when registered with UCCFree Park and Ride ServiceAlso see here for more informationTerms of StudentshipContract: Full Time/Fixed TermDuration: 2 years (Research Masters)The annual stipend is €25,000.00. In addition, annual tuition fees will be paid by the Tyndall National Institute.Informal enquiries can be made in confidence Dr Yi DouThe closing date for applications for this position is 1pm, 25th September 2026Application InstructionsPlease make sure to attach an up-to-date CV/Resume AND a brief motivation letter outlining how you meet the ‘Essential Criteria’ for this role.Postgraduate applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English language proficiency as per UCC regulations (https://www.ucc.ie/en/study/comparison/english/postgraduate/). Certificates should be valid (usually less than 2 years old) and should be uploaded with their application.Please note that Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process. The University, at its discretion, may undertake to make an additional appointment(s) from this competition following the conclusion of the process. Please note that an appointment to posts advertised will be dependent on university approval, together with the terms of the employment control framework for the higher education sector. Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies. Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.