PhD Position Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting from Heavy Mechanical Loads

Join Our Research Group in Piezoelectric Microsystems

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our research group in the field of piezoelectric microsystems. The successful candidate will work on the design, modelling, fabrication, and experimental implementation of piezoelectric energy harvesters capable of operating under heavy mechanical loads. This project aims to develop innovative devices that can convert large-scale mechanical stress into useful electrical energy, enabling autonomous sensors and systems in demanding industrial and structural environments. The research will involve a combination of analytical modelling, multiphysics simulations, device implementation, and experimental validation.

Key responsibilities:

• Develop theoretical and numerical models of piezoelectric energy harvesters under heavy-load conditions.
• Design and optimize device architectures using finite element simulations.
• Fabricate prototypes using 3D printing and cleanroom technologies.
• Implement test setups and assess device performance through mechanical and electrical characterization techniques.
• Disseminate research results through scientific publications, conferences, and collaborative meetings.
• Contribute to teaching and supervision of MSc students within the group.

Job requirements

• MSc degree (or equivalent) in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or a related discipline.
• Strong background in one or more of the following areas: piezoelectric materials, MEMS/NEMS, finite element modelling (e.g., COMSOL), mechanical design, or energy harvesting.
• Hands-on experience with experimental characterization of sensors or other electrical devices.
• Experience with microfabrication is an advantage.
• Proficiency in spoken and written English.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a multidisciplinary team.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science

The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three scientific disciplines. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we all use in our daily lives. Technology such as the electricity grid, which our faculty is helping to make completely sustainable and future-proof. At the same time, we are developing the chips and sensors of the future, whilst also setting the foundations for the software technologies to run on this new generation of equipment – which of course includes AI. Meanwhile we are pushing the limits of applied mathematics, for example mapping out disease processes using single cell data, and using mathematics to simulate gigantic ash plumes after a volcanic eruption. In other words: there is plenty of room at the faculty for ground-breaking research. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position. In total, more than 1000 employees and 4,000 students work and study in this innovative environment.

Conditions of employment

• Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.
• Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3059 - €3881 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
• As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.
• The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

Relocation Support

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.

Additional information

If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Tomas Manzaneque, via t.manzanequegarcia@tudelft.nl.