Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) has been proposed as an effective solution to increase the energy yield in buildings by the integration of solar panels in facades. With the evolution of solar technology, high performance and aesthetic solutions have been presented: transparent, semi-transparent, colored cells among others.

However, there are still some open technical questions related to the practical installation of such systems. For instance the operation and installation place of the power electronics circuitry that needs to be connected to each solar panel.

In addition, wireless power transfer (WPT) has the potential of reducing the amount of materials in power applications. And especially in BIPV, where there is a constant interaction with building physics, and there are certain places where the use of conductors is restricted.

Consequently, the proposed PhD project will focus on the feasibility study of WPT in BIPV systems looking into the technical specifications, the available technology, cost, efficiency and power density of the possible solutions.

Required background: We are looking for a highly motivated, enthusiastic and communicative researcher with a Master Degree in Engineering or a related field. The applicant should have obtained excellent study scores.

The candidate should have a strong interest in energy, with knowledge in power electronics, modeling, design, and control of power converters, and experience with experimental setups. Expertise in Matlab/Simulink, Comsol, and Plecs is highly valuated. Applicants should also have good English communication skills. Dutch proficiency is not required; however, its study is encouraged during the PhD program.

Offer:

KU Leuven, located in Belgium, is among the top European universities, ranked as the top university in the Reuters ranking of Europe's most innovative universities. KU Leuven is a research-intensive, international university that performs both basic and applied research. It is a highly interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary institution focused and committed to international excellence. KU Leuven actively works on this together with its research partners at home and abroad. The university offers an academic education that is based on scientific research of high quality.

This research is to be performed within the framework of EnergyVille in the city of Genk-Belgium. If the selected candidate requires to take courses, these will be given in the city of Leuven or in a Technology Campus in Flanders. Moreover, EnergyVille is one of the top European research centers in Energy. EnergyVille is a collaboration between the Flemish research partners KU Leuven, imec, VITO, and UHasselt towards the research into sustainable energy and intelligent energy systems. Their researchers provide expertise to industry and governments in the field of intelligent energy systems for a sustainable urban environment - such as smart grids and advanced heating networks.

https://www.energyville.be/en

We offer:

A highly specialized doctoral training in an intellectually challenging environment, making the candidate expert in power electronics
Multiple benefits (health insurance, access to university infrastructure and sports facilities, etc.)
The opportunity to be active in an international research environment, engage in research collaborations, and participate in international conferences, workshops, summer schools, etc.
The opportunity to have a short visit to one of the partner laboratories in Europe, Asia, or America
An active collaboration with companies in EnergyVille that will boost the possibility of further options after completing the PhD
A housing allowance

Required background: We are looking for a highly motivated, enthusiastic and communicative researcher with a Master Degree in Engineering or a related field

Type of work: 50% modelling, 50% experimental/characterization

Supervisor: Jef Poortmans

Daily advisor: Patrizio Manganiello

The reference code for this position is 2020-074. Mention this reference code on your application form.
Chinese nationals who wish to apply for the CSC scholarship, should use the following code when applying for this topic: CSC2020-36.