Doctoral Researcher in Simulation of Variable Speed Electric Machines

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We are currently seeking one highly motivated doctoral researcher to join the Department of Electrical Engineering and Automation at Aalto University, Finland, within a project focused on implementing advanced models of soft magnetic materials in accurate simulation software. The developed laminated‑steel models will be evaluated using an experimental setup equipped with variable‑speed electric machines. The objective of this evaluation is to determine whether the proposed model improves the prediction of additional losses introduced by the manufacturing process.

The successful candidate will contribute to research on generalizing some advanced magnetic material model developed at Aalto University. The focus on anisotropy and punching deterioration will enable the effective incorporation of detailed material models in design tools for the next-generation variable-speed electric machines feed by frequency converters. The development and implementation of the magnetic model into a finite-element-based software toolbox will be at Aalto University. The experimental validation will include sample-level characterizations as well as measurements on electric machines of varying power rating and machine topologies. The machine-level studies will be carried out in cooperation with ABB Corporate Research Sweden, Västerås.

Research Focus

The doctoral researcher will focus on topics including (but not limited to):

• Experimental characterization of several grades of laminated steels for electric machines whose magnetic properties are subjected to manufacturing-related degradation (e.g., mechanical stresses due to punching)
• Generalizing the model of magnetic deterioration to account for the residual mechanical stresses due to the punching process on electric steels of different grades and thicknesses.
• Contribute to the implementation of the dynamic vector models in the finite element code
• Numerical analysis of additional losses in the operating conditions of simulated variable-speed electric machines
• Validate the developed simulation models by experimental evaluation of the additional losses in the variable-speed electric machines

Requirements

Eligible candidates should have

• Master’s degree in electrical engineering, computer science, materials sciences, or a closely related field
• Fluent written and verbal communication skills in English
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a research team

If you are chosen for this position, you will apply for the study right in doctoral studies at Aalto University School of Electrical Engineering. Thus, please see the student information and admission criteria at https://www.aalto.fi/en/study-options/aalto-doctoral-programme-in-electrical-engineering.

Desired background

We are looking for candidates with a strong background in one or more of the following areas:

• Modelling and simulation of variable speed electric machines
• Numerical methods for finite element simulations
• Magnetism in polycrystalline microstructures
• Magneto-mechanical interaction in ferromagnetism

Experience or strong interest in the following areas is highly desirable:

• Programming skills (MATLAB, Python, or C/C++)
• Real-time and instrumentation platform (dSpace, LabView)
• Microscopic measurements (X-Ray, EBSD)

What we offer

• Fully funded doctoral researcher’s position at Aalto University, which is consistently ranked among the top universities in Europe.The work is done in close cooperation with ABB Västerås, worldwide industry leader in electric motor and drives.
• The position is fixed term and follows Aalto's standard 2+2 model. It will be made initially for two years, with a six-month probationary period, and extended by two further years after a successful mid-term review, giving a total duration of four years.
• The position starts in November 2026 or as mutually agreed
• The salary will be based on both the job requirements and the employee’s personal performance in accordance with the salary system of Finnish universities. The starting salary for a doctoral researcher is 3143 €/month.
• Opportunity to work in a high-impact industrial research project with leading academic and industrial partners.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratories for magnetic characterization and motor drive testing.
• A stimulating international research environment.
• An opportunity to transpose academic research into the industrial perspective.

Ready to apply?

If you want to join our community, please submit your application through our recruitment site (”Apply now!” at the bottom of the page) by 1 October 2026.

To apply, please share the following application materials in English and in pdf-format with us:

• Motivation letter
  CV including information of at least two referees.
  Copy of your academic transcripts and diplomas for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.

Please note: Aalto University’s employees should apply for the position via our internal HR system Workday (Internal Jobs) by using their existing Workday user account (not via the external webpage for open positions). If you are a student or visitor at Aalto University, please apply with your personal email address (not aalto.fi) via Aalto University open positions.

If you wish to hear more about the position, you can reach out to Doctor Floran Martin (floran.martin@aalto.fi), or Professor Anouar Belahcen (anouar.belahcen@aalto.fi) from Aalto University. Feel free to contact Doctor Marco Biasion (marco.biasion@se.abb.com) or Doctor David Lindell (david.lindell@se.abb.com). For questions related to the application process, please contact HR Advisor Johanna Haapalainen (hr-elec@aalto.fi).

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