PhD Position, research assistant (f/m/d) on solid-state elastocaloric cooling

Karlstad University; Verwaltungsverband Philippsburg; Vor Ort; EUR 40.000 - 70.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

An established research institution is seeking a PhD candidate to develop innovative elastocaloric cooling devices. This exciting role involves designing microfluidic systems and conducting advanced simulations to upscale cooling capacities for sustainable applications. The position offers excellent working conditions, access to advanced facilities, and opportunities for part-time doctoral studies. Join a vibrant international community and contribute to groundbreaking research that addresses global challenges in energy and mobility. This is a unique chance to enhance your skills and make a significant impact in the field.

Leistungen

Flexible working hours

Sports and leisure facilities

Childcare services

Transportation subsidies

Tailored training programs

International environment

Qualifikationen

• Master's degree required in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Deep knowledge of thermodynamics and heat transfer is essential.

Aufgaben

• Design and fabricate microchannels within superelastic SMA materials.
• Model and simulate using FEM multiphysics and lumped element modeling.

Kenntnisse

Mechanical Engineering

Thermodynamics

Heat Transfer

Microsystems Technology

MATLAB Programming

FEM Simulation

Thermal Characterization

Mechanical Testing

English Proficiency

Ausbildung

MSc in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD

FEM Software

Jobbeschreibung

PhD Position, Research Assistant (f/m/d) in Solid-State Elastocaloric Cooling

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) – The Research University in the Helmholtz Association, aims to create and impart knowledge for society and the environment. With approximately 9,800 employees, KIT collaborates across research, education, and innovation to address global challenges in energy, mobility, and information.

The Institute of Microstructure Technology (IMT) offers a limited-term (3 years) PhD position, starting as soon as possible.

Position Overview

You will develop a next-generation high-performance elastocaloric cooling device using microfluidics-based shape memory alloys. The goal is to upscale the cooling capacity from microwatts to several hundred watts and improve temperature lift, enabling sustainable cooling applications such as battery thermal management in electric vehicles, electronic component cooling, and the transport of perishable goods.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and fabricate microchannels within superelastic SMA materials
• Characterize superelastic shape memory alloys (mechanical, thermal, fatigue life)
• Model, design, and simulate (FEM multiphysics, lumped element modeling)
• Rapid prototyping (optical lithography, 3D printing, laser technology)
• Develop, characterize, and control cooling demonstrator variants
• Perform simulation-based design optimization

This position offers the opportunity for part-time doctoral studies.

Facilities and Support

The institute is equipped with a 600 m² clean room, advanced rapid prototyping tools, construction and connection technology labs, and various metrology laboratories.

Funding and Activities

Funded by the Hector Fellow Academy (HFA), this role includes participation in annual symposia, networking, training events, and an annual management module at the Hector School. More information: https://hector-fellow-academy.de/en/young-scientist-support/.

Qualifications

• MSc in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• Deep knowledge of mechanical engineering, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and microsystems technology
• Experience in CAD, lumped element modeling, FEM simulation, MATLAB programming, thermal characterization, and mechanical testing
• Proficiency in spoken and written English

Benefits

Join the only German University of Excellence conducting large-scale research nationally. Enjoy excellent working conditions, international environment, research and teaching activities, tailored training, flexible working hours, sports and leisure facilities, childcare services, and transportation subsidies.

We encourage applications from women and recognize severely disabled persons on an equal basis.

Please apply online by 31.05.2025, quoting vacancy number 31/2025, to Ms. Bärbel Gätcke at KIT Human Resources, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany. For inquiries, contact Dr. Jingyuan Xu at [e-mail].

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