SR-15 PhD- ‘Nonlinear wideband vibrational energy harvesting using novel MEMS

SR-15 PhD – ‘Nonlinear wideband vibrational energy harvesting using novel MEMS/NEMS Electromagnetic/ magnetoelectric transducers for powering wireless sensors for IoT’

Contract: Full Time/Fixed Term

Project: The rapid growth in the field of wireless sensor networks aiming the realization of ‘Internet of Things- IoT’ has highlighted the issue of powering wireless sensor nodes perpetually. The requirement of changing batteries places an unwanted additional maintenance and enormous cost burden on such ubiquitous wireless nodes/networks. In certain applications, where environmental vibrations are present, there is the opportunity to harvest the kinetic energy of these vibrations through appropriate design and fabrication of tiny (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems- MEMS / Nano Electro Mechanical Systems- NEMS) transducers and use these to power the wireless sensor nodes.

The focus of this PhD project will be on design, modelling and development of vibration based nonlinear wideband electromagnetic / magnetoelectric micropower generators using micro magnets, integrated conducting coils and MEMS/NEMS structures on Silicon. The project will also include development and characterization of nano-structured magnetic materials / multi-nano-layers for device integration, characterization and further validation.

The successful applicant will work as part of a multidisciplinary research team, which has a focus on the development of integrated magnetics under supervision of Professor Saibal Roy in the Micropower devices/systems & nanomagnetics group, Micro Nano-Systems center, Tyndall National Institute, University College Cork, Ireland.

The research of this particular position will involve elements of the following;

• Review of state of the art (publications in journals, conferences and patents)
• Design, extensive MEMS and electromagnetic modelling (FEA) of MEMS/NEMS structures
• Development and characterization of nano-structured magnetic materials
• Device fabrication using MEMS/NEMS technologies in state of the art clean room fabrication facilities
• Electrical characterization of fabricated devices & model validation
• Participate in Education and Public Engagement activities, as required.

Essential Criteria

• Masters (or Bachelor’s 1H1/similar grade) degree in Physics/Electrical/ Electronic/ Mechanical/ Microelectronics/ Materials Science or similar.
• Proficiency in English, non-native English speakers should provide IELTS/TOEFL score

Desirable Criteria

• Candidates will be given preference having some of the following experiences:
• Experience in modelling, FEA simulation (COMSOL, MATLAB, Maxwell ANSOFT)
• Experience in mask designing, layout
• Experience in microelectronic/ MEMS/ NEMS fabrication processes in the clean room
• Knowledge in magnetism, micro-magnetic simulation (MuMax3) of nano-magnetic patterns and experience in magnetic measurements such as in SQUID/VSM is plus
• Ability to write the project reports, articles in journals/conference

This is a four year PhD position. An annual student stipend of €19,000 applies for this successful candidate for this position.  In addition, yearly University academic fees will paid by the Tyndall National Institute.

Informal enquiries can be made in confidence to Professor Saibal Roy at saibal.roy@tyndall.ie

Application Instructions

Step 1 - Click here to download the Application form and indicate the Job Reference SR-15

Step 2 - Return the completed Application form, together with your CV and motivation letter to careers@tyndall.ie.

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. In special circumstances the panel may consider a prior degree in English (e.g. Master thesis written in English) as evidence of English language proficiency.

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.

At this time, Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies.

Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.