Robinson Research Institute PhD: Superconducting bearings for high-speed machines

Description

Would you like to contribute to building a sustainable low-emissions future? High power-density superconducting motors and generators are being actively studied as solutions for powering future large-scale electric aircraft. At Robinson Research Institute we have recently constructed and tested a high-speed superconducting motor/generator at up to 18 000 revolutions per minute (rpm). At such high speeds, heat caused by bearing friction is a major problem and limits the running time of the motor.

Non-contact superconducting magnetic levitation bearings offer a solution to this problem. These bearings have been studied in our Institute at a fundamental level, and we have demonstrated working bearings at speeds over 100 000 rpm. Now the goal is to translate this technology into our motor. This project will concern the design, build and evaluation of a suitable mag-lev bearing for our prototype motor.

We welcome applications for a student to join our dynamic team at the Robinson Research Institute [1] of Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand’s premier research centre in superconductivity.

Who is eligible?

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.
• Satisfy the requirements for admission (https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/fgr/apply/how/entry-requirements) as a PhD candidate at Victoria University of Wellington including English language requirements.

Selection criteria

We are seeking a highly motivated person with an excellent academic record, a good understanding of electrical engineering or an applied physics background with passion to contribute the cutting-edge technology development, and able to work well in a team. A basic knowledge of superconductivity and experience with working with COMSOL Multiphysics would be beneficial.

Application process

Please email Dr James Storey (james.storey@vuw.ac.nz) with “PhD Scholarship in Superconducting Bearings for High-Speed Machines” in the subject line. Please include the following information,

• A full curriculum vitae, including your university transcripts.
• A letter expressing your interest in this project.
• Evidence of your English language ability (international students).
• Your expected starting date.

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

Please contact Dr James Storey (james.storey@vuw.ac.nz) if you have any questions.