Research Associate/Fellow in Electric Drives

About the Role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Research Associate / Fellow to join the world-renowned Power Electronics, Machines and Control Institute (PEMC) at the University of Nottingham, where you will have the opportunity to take a central role in developing and control of active magnetic bearings (AMB) for high-speed motor drive applications. 

You will work in close collaboration with NEMA Ltd, who design and manufacture electromechanical systems and parts for commercial aerospace customers to the internationally recognised AS9100 standards. NEMA specialise in the provision of technically-innovative solutions for demanding applications in challenging environments. These include high power-density motors and generators, linear and rotary actuators and electro-mechanical components/assemblies, many of which are used in flight-critical applications. 

AMBs utilise electromagnets to levitate a shaft in free-space without any physical contact whatsoever to eliminate friction & wear. Bearings are a critical component of all rotating machinery, but existing solutions introduce specific performance issues and impose costly limitations on system lifetimes, efficiencies and rotational speeds, and they require regular maintenance, lubrication, oil, or air. AMBs are technically superior to existing bearing solutions, they are unique in the benefits they offer, and the problems they solve. AMBs offer smart functionality, real-time health monitoring, immunity to rotor critical speeds, and the elimination of bearing-imposed speed limits, enabling high-speed drives for various applications. This project will address aerospace reliability requirements with enhanced redundancy and fault-tolerance within the AMB actuators, sensors and controller. 

About the Team

The PEMC institute has grown exponentially and now has over 200 members, 24 academics and circa 130 PhD students, researchers, and engineers. The group offers state-of-the-art facilities spanning 3500m², capable of handling up to 5MW for construction and testing. Our team is world leading in advanced electrical machines design, analysis, manufacturing, and testing. The role holder will become part of the team working in this state-of-the-art facility for advanced electrical machines for power generation, marine, aerospace and automotive industries.

About You

You should have a PhD degree, or equivalent, (or be near to completion), in electrical/electronic engineering and research experience in motor drives and control and be committed to the practical application of research in this area. The ability to work in a team, lead both internally and externally, and interact & collaborate actively and professionally with industrial partners is essential. Here are some examples of the type of expertise we are looking for, however this list is not exhaustive and exclusive:

• Outstanding and comprehensive knowledge of electrical machines and drives
• Design and analytical modelling of AMB system and controllers
• Knowledge of rotor-dynamics
• Knowledge of FPGA or DSP coding 
• Practical, hands-on experience in the design, construction and testing of electrical/electronic circuits with real time programmer
• Expert user of MATLAB and Simulink 
• Experience of writing reports and conducting effective research

The post is offered on a fixed term contract until 13 March 2027. Hours of work are full time (36.25 hours per week). Job share arrangements may be considered.

Please contact Pav Orton (pav.orton@nottingham.ac.uk) for further information. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

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