DC9 – Fabrication of High-Performance Thermoelectric Modules for Solid-State Cooling

Objective: Fabricate and test high-performance thermoelectric cooling modules using scalable fabrication techniques supported by simulations to achieve efficient and stable solid-state cooling.

Host Institution: Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research (IFW)

Location: Dresden, Germany

Main Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Kornelius Nielsch (IFW Dresden), Germany

Co-Supervisors: Prof. Dr. David Astrain, (UPNA) Spain, Dr. Hao Yin, (TEGN) Denmark

Duration: 36 months (full-time employment)


PhD-awarding Institution: Technische Universität Dresden

Project Overview

DC9 will focus on the fabrication, optimization, and validation of high-performance thermoelectric modules for solid-state cooling applications. Building on magnesium-based materials and advanced interface concepts developed within the consortium, DC9 will develop thermoelectric modules with optimized cooling performance and high durability.

The project will involve the fabrication of modules, the simulation of thermoelectric devices and the testing of these devices under realistic operating conditions.

 

Research Tasks and Training Objectives

The Doctoral Candidate (m/f/div) will:

  • Develop thermoelectric module architectures based on Mg-based materials 
  • Characterize and evaluate electrical, thermal, and mechanical module performance under steady-state and cyclic conditions
  • Optimize module design through variation of geometry, processing parameters, and contacting strategies, supported by finite element simulations.
  • Collaborate within the European MGICIAN network and disseminate research results through publications and conferences
  • Participate in intersectoral secondments and structured doctoral training activities

Secondments

To strengthen interdisciplinary and intersectoral training, DC9 will undertake the following secondments:

  • TEGnology (Denmark) – 2 months (Month 14)
    Focus: Industrial module assembly and fabrication optimisation
  • University College Cork (Ireland) – 3 months (Month 24)
    Focus: Integration of advanced interface and joining concepts into module prototypes
  • Public University of Navarra (UPNA, Spain) – 2 months (Month 30)
    Focus: Advanced device testing and performance optimisation strategies

Requirements

Education

Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, or a closely related field. Applicants must be eligible to enrol in a PhD programme at Technische Universität Dresden.

Technical Competences

  • Strong background in thermoelectric devices or materials processing
  • Experience with device characterization or the performance testing of materials
  • Understanding of electrical and thermal transport in thermoelectric systems
  • Familiarity with numerical simulations or simulation tools is advantageous

Personal Skills

  • Strong analytical and experimental problem-solving abilities
  • Ability to work independently and within an international and interdisciplinary research network
  • Excellent written and spoken English

Join MGICIAN as a Doctoral Candidate

Apply now and become part of MGICIAN as a Doctoral Candidate. Shape the future of sustainable solid-state cooling with us.

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