DTU PhD Scholarship for Thermoelectric Generator Modules in Denmark, 2014

Technical University of Denmark has invited applications for a PhD scholarship to study the evolution of contacts and interfaces (both electrical as well as thermal) in thermoelectric modules. The student will be part of a large national project on “Center for Thermoelectric Energy Conversion” with partners from both universities and industry. The place of work will be at the Department of Energy Conversion and Storage, DTU Risø Campus, Roskilde, Denmark. The position is for a fixed duration of 3 years. The salary and appointment terms will be based on the collective agreement with the Confederation of Professional Associations (AC). Salary will depend on qualifications and experience. All applications must be submitted before 1 October, 2014.
Study Subject(s): Scholarship is awarded to study the evolution of contacts and interfaces (both electrical as well as thermal) in thermoelectric modules. The student will be part of a large national project on “Center for Thermoelectric Energy Conversion” with partners from both universities and industry.
Course Level: Scholarship is available for pursuing PhD research programme at the Department of Energy Conversion and Storage, DTU Risø Campus, Denmark.
Scholarship Provider: Technical University of Denmark
Scholarship can be taken at: Denmark
Eligibility:
-Master’s degree in chemistry, physics, materials science or similar
-Good knowledge of solid state physics and thermodynamics
-Experience with experimental methods for materials processing and characterization
-Preferably familiarity with multi-physics programs for simulations, e.g. COMSOL
-Ability to work independently, to plan and carry out complicated tasks, and to be a part of a large, dynamical group
-Good communication skills in English, both written and spoken
Scholarship Open for International Students: This PhD scholarship is open for Danish citizens.
Scholarship Description: Thermoelectric materials convert heat directly into electricity without moving parts. A thermoelectric (TE) module consists of at least two different materials. A major part of the losses in such modules is associated with the contacts and interfaces between these materials. DTU Energy Conversion, the Section for Electro-Functional Materials, is now seeking a motivated PhD student to study the evolution of contacts and interfaces (both electrical as well as thermal) in thermoelectric modules. You will be part of a large national project on “Center for Thermoelectric Energy Conversion” with partners from both universities and industry. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with TEGnology A/S, a dynamic and active company that develops thermoelectric generators for medium range temperature applications. In this project, the PhD will identify and measure the contact resistances of TE legs and electrodes over extended periods of time under different atmospheres. The measurements will also allow for the kinetics of the interface to be studied by imaging and analytical techniques. Different possible contact materials e.g. metals or alloys, as well as joining methods will be considered and investigated in order to minimize the internal resistances of the modules to maximize the power output and efficiency. The results of the contact resistance measurements will be incorporated with numerical modeling to identify the optimal way to improve the module performance.
Number of award(s): One PhD scholarship will be available.
Duration of award(s): The position is for a fixed duration of 3 years.
What does it cover? The salary and appointment terms will be based on the collective agreement with the Confederation of Professional Associations (AC). Salary will depend on qualifications and experience.
Selection Criteria: Not Known
Notification: Not Known
How to Apply: Applications must be submitted as one pdf file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply online,” fill in the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one pdf file. The file must include:
-A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
-Curriculum vitae
-Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma
-Excel sheet with translation of grades to the Danish grading system
Candidates may apply prior to ob­tai­ning their master’s degree, but cannot begin before having received it.
Scholarship Application Deadline: Candidates are required to submit application no later than 1 October 2014.
Further Official Scholarship Information and Application