Research Associate in Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machines

at  University of Sheffield

We have an excellent opportunity to join a team of leading academics and a global hi-tech industrial partner to work on design and analysis of permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSMs).
The research will involve the design, analysis, modelling, simulation, and validation of permanent magnet synchronous machines with the focus on electromagnetic performance and mechanical characteristics.
The influence of machine topologies, radial forces, torque ripples, acoustic noise and vibration, etc., will also be investigated.
The post provides an ideal opportunity to undertake high quality research in collaboration with a global hi-tech industrial partner. The post holder will be expected to participate in technical meetings, direct communications with the industrial sponsor, and be encouraged and supported to attend international conferences and to publish research findings in learned society journals.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Design and analysis of electromagnetic performance and parasitic effects including cogging torque, torque ripple, radial forces etc. of permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSMs) by finite element method and analytical techniques.
• Develop new machine topologies for PMSMs.
• Use electromagnetic finite element software for global design optimization of PMSMs.
• Use mechanical finite element software, for mechanical stress analyses of PMSMs.
• Use MATLAB/SIMULINK software to carry out system level performance analysis.
• Comparative study of influence of machine topologies, design parameters, control strategies, and Pulse-Width-Modulation strategies on the electromagnetic performance.
• Liaise with engineers from the industrial partner on electromagnetic design and mechanical analysis, particularly acoustic behaviour.

About the team
The Electrical Machines and Drives (EMD) Research Group is a world leader in the field of electrical machines, power electronics, controls, and energy conversion and storage systems. Currently, it has more than 120 personnel, including 15 academic staff (9 full professors), around 100 Research Associates and PhD students. With an outstanding track record for innovation, and for promoting the commercial exploitation of its research findings, the group is particularly well-known for its pioneering research on permanent magnet machines and drives for applications ranging from automotive, aerospace, renewable energy, marine, industrial, to consumer product sectors. The group has helped to achieve many synergies in terms of the demand for higher power densities, increased energy efficiency, improved reliability and reduced maintenance, and greater functionality.

What we offer

• A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
• Generous pension scheme.
• A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
• A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
• Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
• A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways and Professional Services Shared Skills Framework.
• A range of generous family-friendly policies

o paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
o support for those going through the menopause
o paid time off and support for fertility treatment
o and more
We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.
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• Design and analysis of electromagnetic performance and parasitic effects including cogging torque, torque ripple, radial forces etc. of permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSMs) by finite element method and analytical techniques.
• Develop new machine topologies for PMSMs.
• Use electromagnetic finite element software for global design optimization of PMSMs.
• Use mechanical finite element software, for mechanical stress analyses of PMSMs.
• Use MATLAB/SIMULINK software to carry out system level performance analysis.
• Comparative study of influence of machine topologies, design parameters, control strategies, and Pulse-Width-Modulation strategies on the electromagnetic performance.
• Liaise with engineers from the industrial partner on electromagnetic design and mechanical analysis, particularly acoustic behaviour