Robinson Research Institute PhD Scholarship: Superconducting power supplies: Enabling sustainable fusion energy and electric aerospace technologies

History

Superconductors are able to conduct enormous currents with little to no resistive losses making them ideal for use in high field magnets used in new and exciting tech such as; fusion generators, all electric long-haul aeroplanes and magnetoplasmadynamic thrusters for long distance space flight. At Robinson we specialise in the application all of these technologies and more, and have a deep understanding of their demands, the most important of which is arguably power. We are the front runners in the race towards reliable high current superconducting power supplies colloquially known as flux pumps. As of yet no flux pumps capable of delivering above 10 kiloamps to a large inductive load exist, we are aiming to smash that ceiling and we have the means to do it. These power supplies unlock the true potential of all superconducting technologies and will bring superconductivity into the forefront of people’s lives, whilst helping to create a greener future. If you are interested in helping us achieve this ambitious goal and have a strong background in physics and/or electrical/electronics engineering, consider completing a PhD at Robinson Research Institute, Wellington, New Zealand. We can also offer a full stipend inclusive of all course fees and living costs.

Who is eligible?

We are seeking a highly motivated person with an excellent academic record, a good understanding of Electrical Engineering or applied physics background with passion to contribute the cutting-edge technology development, and able to work well in a team.

Applicants must:

• Have an engineering or science degree equivalent to the 4-year Honours degree in New Zealand, with 1st class or 2nd class (1st division) Honours, or an MSc/MEng or equivalent with high grades and;
• Satisfy the requirements for admission as a PhD candidate at Victoria University of Wellington including English language requirements.

Application process

To register your interest, please contact Dr. Adam Francis adam.francis@vuw.ac.nz with a copy of:

1. Current CV
2. Full academic transcript
3. Letter expressing your interest in the project

Selection process

Selection will be made by supervisors: Dr Adam Francis and Prof Rod Badcock.

Regulations and conditions

1. A completed online application must be submitted by 4.30 pm on the closing date. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted. Any required supporting documentation (including references) must also be received by 4:30pm on the closing date in order for the application to be considered.
2. All offers of the Scholarship will be conditional upon the recipient being enrolled in a full-year programme (as stipulated by Studylink as full-time), within the criteria and tenure of the scholarship. No payment of the Scholarship will be made until this condition is met.
3. Where part-time study for the recipient is approved, their scholarship award may be pro-rated. This decision will be made by the decision-making panel. Before the recipient decides to reduce their workload from full-time study, this must be discussed with the Scholarships Office.
4. The Scholarship cannot be deferred to a later year.
5. The Scholarship may be held in conjunction with other University awards.
6. Should the recipient withdraw from Victoria University of Wellington during the tenure of this scholarship or fail to achieve a satisfactory progress, partial repayment of the Scholarship will normally be expected. Recipients must advise the Scholarships Office if they intend to withdraw.
7. Recipients are expected to act as Ambassadors for Victoria University of Wellington and participate in appropriate events or marketing if requested.
8. At the discretion of the Deciding Authority, the application of the terms and conditions of the Scholarship may be modified in special circumstances or to avoid hardship to any candidate for the Scholarship.

Contact

Should you have any questions, please contact Dr. Adam Francis adam.francis@vuw.ac.nz