Doctoral student in thermal packaging solutions for future communication and sensor systems

Karlstad University; Göteborgs kommun; On-site; SEK 362,808 - 434,573; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee benefits

Dynamic working environment

Swedish language courses

Job summary

Karlstad University is seeking a Doctoral student focused on thermal packaging solutions for future communication and sensor systems. This role involves cutting-edge research in thermal design and semiconductor technologies, aiming to enhance wireless communication and sensing systems.

The ideal candidate should have a strong background in electrical engineering or related fields, alongside effective communication skills in English. The position includes a starting salary of 35,725 SEK per month and is fully funded for four years.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Strong interest in semiconductor devices and heat transfer.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on thermal packaging solutions for RF and mmWave electronics.
• Work across multiple disciplines including physics and thermal engineering.
• Participate in collaborative projects with international teams.

Skills

Electronics

Semiconductor devices

Heat transfer

Thermal management

Computational modelling

Analytical problem solving

Communication in English

Education

Master’s degree in relevant field

4-year Bachelor's degree (for non-Swedish applicants)

Tools

COMSOL Multiphysics

ANSYS

CFD software

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Doctoral student in thermal packaging solutions for future communication and sensor systems

Our goal is to focus on competence, knowledge and collaboration in order to play an important, demonstrable role in social development.

Are you excited about shaping the next generation of wireless communication and sensing technologies? As a PhD student at Chalmers, you will conduct cutting‑edge research in thermal design, advanced semiconductor technologies, and innovative packaging solutions for high‑performance RF and mmWave systems.

About us

At the Microwave Electronics Laboratory we focus on application‑driven research on high‑speed electronic components, circuits and systems for future communication and remote sensing applications. The research spans frequencies from below 1 GHz to 500 GHz. Our main research areas are within wireless high‑speed digital communication, sensors such as radar systems and radiometers, and microwave heating. We demonstrate innovative microwave components and circuits in our own fabrication lab, the Nanofabrication Laboratory at MC2, or at external cooperation partners/foundries. We characterize our components and circuits in our measurement laboratory.

About the research project

Future wireless communication, radar, and sensing systems require electronics that deliver higher power, greater energy efficiency, and increased integration. This project focuses on developing advanced thermal packaging solutions for GaN‑based RF and mmWave electronics, where heat management is critical for performance and reliability. The research combines thermal characterization, modelling, microwave design, and additive manufacturing to create innovative packaging concepts that integrate both thermal and electromagnetic functions in compact, high‑performance systems.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for a self‑driven and highly motivated PhD candidate with a strong interest in solving system‑level engineering challenges. The ideal candidate enjoys working across disciplinary boundaries at the intersection of electronics, physics, thermal engineering, and advanced materials, and is eager to contribute to the development of next‑generation wireless communication and sensing systems.

The following requirements are mandatory

• To qualify as a Doctoral student, you must hold a Master’s degree (120 ECTS) or equivalent in Electrical Engineering, Engineering Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, or a closely related field. For applicants with an education earned outside Sweden, a four‑year Bachelor's degree may be considered equivalent.
• A strong interest in electronics, semiconductor devices, heat transfer, thermal management, and/or computational modelling.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to understand and address complex engineering challenges.
• Ability and motivation to work both experimentally and theoretically, combining simulations, measurements, and data analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

For students with an education earned outside of Sweden, a 4‑year Bachelor’s degree is accepted.

Personal qualities are of great importance for this position. We are looking for a curious and ambitious candidate who enjoys learning new skills and tackling multidisciplinary research challenges. You should be able to work independently, take initiative, and contribute effectively to collaborative projects involving colleagues, industrial partners, and international research teams. A structured approach to research, strong communication skills, and the ability to translate scientific findings into practical engineering solutions are highly valued.

The following experience will strengthen your application

• Experience with thermal modelling and simulation tools such as COMSOL Multiphysics, ANSYS, CFD software, or equivalent.
• Experience in RF, microwave, or mmWave engineering.
• Experience with measurement techniques, laboratory work, and experimental characterisation of electronic devices or systems.
• Programming experience in MATLAB, Python, or similar scientific computing environments.
• Knowledge of semiconductor devices, electronic packaging, reliability analysis, or heat transfer.
• Experience with additive manufacturing, advanced materials, or multiphysics simulations.
• Previous research experience through thesis work, publications, industrial R&D projects, or other advanced engineering projects.
• Develop your own scientific concepts and communicate the results of your research verbally and in writing.
• The position generally also includes teaching on Chalmers’ undergraduate level or performing other duties corresponding to 20 percent of working hours.

Contract terms

• The Doctoral student positions are fully funded from start.
• The position is a fixed‑term appointment of four years, with the possibility to teach up to 20 percent, which extends the position up to five years.
• A starting salary of 35 725 SEK per month (valid from 1 May 2026).
• Doctoral studies require physical presence throughout the entire study period. A valid residence permit must be presented by the study start date; otherwise the admission may be withdrawn.

What we offer

• As a Doctoral student at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.
• A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
• Read more about Sweden’s generous parental leave, subsidised day care, free schools, healthcare, etc. at Move To Gothenburg.

Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in if Swedish is not your native language.

Job details

Title: Doctoral student in thermal packaging solutions for future communication and sensor systems

Closing date: 31 July 2026