PhD Research fellow in Mechatronics – energy conversion with power electronics and solar cells, at The University of Agder. Ref. 64/09

The University of Agder invites applications for a full-time fixed-term appointment for 3 years as Research Fellow in Mechatronics at the Faculty of Engineering and Science. The field of specialization will be energy conversion with power electronics and solar cells. The position is currently located in Grimstad, Norway. The starting date is negotiable.

At present, the Faculty of Engineering and Science has a core group of more than 15 researchers in the field of mechatronics, including 4 Professors, 4 Associate Professors and 5 Research Fellows. The group is responsible for the BSc, MSc, and PhD programmes in Mechatronics at the University of Agder and has a comprehensive network of Norwegian and international partner universities. In addition, the Mechatronics group exploits synergies with the faculty’s renewable energy group, which, amongst other activities, works on applications of solar cell technology. Power Electronics is an example of a type of technology which is often included as a component in mechatronic systems and in systems for solar electricity production, whereas solar cells to a certain extent are used to power mechatronic systems.

The position may focus on one of the following projects:

• Grid integration of solar cell technology
• Stand-alone applications, e.g. in telecommunication systems
• Solar-powered electric cars
• Energy storage and smart grid technology for solar power stations

The successful applicant should have a master’s degree in electrical engineering or mechatronics, but applicants with a background in physics may also be considered. Applicants should have a good background in relevant subjects in electrical engineering, or demonstrate their ability and willingness to acquire such knowledge. The Research Fellow must meet the criteria for admission to the PhD programme at the University of Agder, and must be admitted to the programme within three months of appointment.

Information about the appointment criteria for a position as Research Fellow can be found in the Regulations Concerning Terms and Conditions of Employment for the Post of Post-doctoral Research Fellow, Research Fellow, Research Assistant and Resident, available for download at www.uia.no/vacancies

Personal suitability and the applicant’s ability and willingness to cooperate with researchers in neighbouring fields will be emphasized.

A high level of oral and written proficiency in English is required. Knowledge of a Scandinavian language is an advantage.

Appointment is made for a period of three years, alternatively four years with 25% of the time assigned to tasks at the faculty’s discretion. The Research Fellow is expected to complete a doctoral dissertation within the period of employment.

There may be opportunities for the Research Fellow to conduct research at external institutions or partner universities in Norway or abroad during the period of employment. The Research Fellow will be expected to publish scientific papers in English and participate in conferences as a part of his or her PhD education.

Women are especially encouraged to apply.

The Civil Service is committed to reflecting the diversity of society in its work force. It is therefore a goal of personnel policy in the Civil Service to achieve balanced gender representation, include different age groups and recruit civil servants from backgrounds reflecting the ethnic diversity of the country. Persons from immigrant backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply for the position.

Appointment is made by the University of Agder’s Appointments Committee for Teaching and Research Positions. The successful applicant will have rights and obligations in accordance with the current regulations for the Civil Service. Organisational changes and changes in the duties and responsibilities of the position must be expected.

The position is remunerated within the State salary scale, salary plan 17.515, code 1017, salary grade 45 (NOK 353 200). A 2 % compulsory pension contribution to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund is deducted from the pay according to current statutory provisions.

The application should include a short description of the applicant’s background and fields of interest, and how these are relevant for the field of the research project.

Applicants are asked to submit their application a

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