PhD Student Development Power Electronics (f/m/d)

Work environment

As part of your doctoral research, you will work on pioneering technologies for electric drive systems in battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Your focus will be on the investigation, development and testing of innovative power electronics concepts with an emphasis on integrated voltage converter systems. In doing so, you will actively contribute to shaping future drive system architectures and independently develop scientific contributions all the way to functional prototypes. Become part of the team now and help shape Volkswagen’s transformation into a mobility provider! We look forward to receiving your application.

Possible Tasks within this Role

• Analyzing and evaluating modern power electronics concepts and architectures for electric drives in BEVs
• Investigating traction voltage levels and power classes of future BEV drive systems from technical, economic and regulatory perspectives
• Designing, developing and testing a functional demonstrator for an integrated voltage converter within the overall automotive drivetrain
• Conducting experimental investigations, including setup, testing, and analysis of prototypes, as well as deriving technical optimization potentials
• Documenting and scientifically evaluating the results as part of the doctoral research

The final doctoral topic is defined together with the professor. The prerequisite for the cooperation is the confirmation of supervision as well as a confirmed delimitation of topics by the professor of a university or research institution entitled to confer a doctorate.

Qualification requirements

• Good to very good university degree qualifying for doctoral studies in electrical engineering, mechatronics, computer science, or a related discipline
• Strong knowledge in power electronics, electric drivetrain systems, semiconductor technologies, or energy conversion systems
• Experience in modeling, simulation, and analysis (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, PLECS)
• Initial experience in laboratory work, experimental testing, or prototype development
• German language level B2 and English language level B1
• Analytical thinking and a logical, systematic approach to work
• Strong problem‑solving skills and creativity in tackling technical challenges
• Ability to work in a team and willingness for interdisciplinary collaboration

Keywords

Overall system, BEV drivetrain systems, prototype development, interdisciplinary research, system architecture analysis, technology scouting

What we offer

• Attractive salary & 30 vacation days (+ 24.12. and 31.12. off)
• Special conditions for the purchase and leasing of vehicles
• Free seminars on scientific work and interdisciplinary qualifications
• Participation in the doctoral network for scientific exchange with science representatives and other doctoral candidates within the Volkswagen Group

Contact person for this posting: Michele Knyhas

Job ID: 22005

Location: Salzgitter, DE, 38231

Department: Research and Development

Working Model: Full-time

Contract Type: Fixed-term

Remote Working: Up to 40%

Posting Date: Feb 19, 2026

Volkswagen - that's why

We want to revolutionize and shape the mobility of tomorrow sustainably. For this purpose, we are looking for talents who are willing to break completely new ground with us and are not afraid to make mistakes. We are looking for personalities who want to achieve something extraordinary. And talents who believe in the innovative power of big ideas. Are you in?