A PhD student in Electronics focusing on Ambient Light Energy Harvesting - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The research work for this PhD position will be carried out in the Autonomous Sensor Systems group. You will be part of a large research project on the smart Internet of Things (IoT) systems. Energy harvesting solutions, in this context, enable to prolong the battery life of IoT devices or replace batteries entirely.


Job description

Independent third-cycle studies encompassing research (100%).

This PhD position focuses on the estimation of available energy in ambient light energy harvesting systems. Ambient light energy harvesting is an attractive solution as light is commonplace in many IoT applications. Moreover, the cost of small photovoltaic panels is relatively low, which enables the design of self-powered systems at low cost. However, it is challenging to design such systems as the available energy depends on the ambient light conditions the system is placed in. The estimation of available energy levels is therefore a crucial challenge to be addressed and will be central to this PhD position. Particularly, the utilization of modern AI-assisted modelling methods will be investigated and developed.

As a PhD student in the Autonomous Sensor Systems group, you will be a vital part of the research group, collaborating with other PhD students, post-docs and senior researchers. Your studies will consist of courses and own research work, developing your competences through theory and experiments. You are expected to bring forward own ideas in the development of your research agenda, and to contribute to the publication and presentation of results. The research group, in turn, will provide a forum for discussion, supervision and assistance during your studies, supporting your research and career development. You will be part of a leading group in the field of low-power sensing systems and be able to exploit the groups large international network.

Entry requirements

General entry requirements include a second-cycle level qualification, or fulfilment of courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits must be at second-cycle level, or the equivalent knowledge gained in some other way in Sweden or abroad. Specific entry requirements include at least 90 credits in the subject of electrical engineering, electronics engineering or computer engineering, or the equivalent knowledge gained in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

The position requires a good knowledge of English, orally and in writing. Good knowledge of Swedish is meritorious.

Assessment criteria

The assessment of applications to this PhD position will be based on the applicants’ previous experience (e.g., thesis works, projects, internships, and work experience), the relevance of undergone educational programmes and courses, results of previous studies, and the applicants’ vision for the intended PhD studies.

We see it as an advantage if you enjoy working with hardware-close applications such as embedded systems or sensor systems. Previous experience with energy harvesting and/or machine learning is beneficial, but not mandatory. You should have previous experience in programming in, for example, Python, Matlab, or C++.

Personal qualities

In addition to your technical competences, your suitability for PhD studies will be evaluated based on your ability to collaborate with others, to work independently, and to communicate clearly.

Employment process

Processing of the appointment will comply with the provisions in Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance, and will be carried out in accordance with Mid Sweden University’s Employment Procedures. 

Terms of employment

The doctoral studentship position corresponds to two years of full-time studies and is expected to lead to a Degree of Licentiate. The entry date will be according to agreement. The position can be extended to a Degree of Doctor provided that further funding is obtained.

Initial doctoral student positions are valid for a maximum of one year, after which the position may be renewed by no longer than two years at a time. Provisions regarding doctoral studentship employment can be found in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), Chapter 5, Sections 1-7.

Place of employment: Sundsvall

Salary: In accordance with Mid Sweden University’s salary scale for doctoral students.  


Information

For more detailed information contact Prof. Bengt Oelmann (email: bengt.oelmann@miun.se, phone: +46 (0) 10 142 87 02), or the Head of department, Patrik Österberg (email: patrik.osterberg@miun.se, phone: +46 (0) 10 142 86 14).


Application

Application documents must be submitted in Swedish or English.

The application must include a CV, transcripts from your prior degree programme(s), and a letter of motivation.

Please send in your application through our recruitment system no later than 2023-11-10.