Optimisation algorithms for technology computer-aided design (TCAD) of advanced semiconductor devices

The vast majority of electrical and electronic components make use of a converter, i.e., a device that transforms DC into AC and vice versa. It is highly desirable that the converter dissipates as little energy as possible. Other requirements involve elements such as the ease of production and environmental impact of the converter. Therefore, the design of power electronic converters is a complex multi-criteria optimisation task that involves identifying hundreds of parameters and the use of computationally expensive simulators.

This project will investigate the use of novel ad-hoc metaheuristic algorithms to search for the optimal design of a power electronic device. We will, at first, study the problem as a single optimisation problem by scalarising the objective function and then as a multi-objective problem by considering one fitness landscape for each objective function. Based on the insights resulting from the analysis we will design and test ad-hoc solvers.

The student will benefit from the supervision of two experts, in machine learning and semiconductor devices, respectively. Frequent input from the industrial partner will inform the technical direction of the project, but the student will also travel to the partner’s engineering offices for specialist training and co-design sessions. The presence of an industrial end-user in the project gives the researcher exceptional awareness of the true needs of electronics designers in the industry, an insight into the operation of the design activity, hands-on training with industrially relevant datasets and an appreciation of the breadth and significance of the work’s impact.

Support networks within the School and the University’s Doctoral College present important mentoring and career development prospects. At the conclusion of the project, the student will be a leading expert in multi-objective data-driven optimisation with a deep and transferrable understanding in emerging electronic device design.

This studentship is for UK and international applicants.

Applicants are expected to hold a first or upper-second class degree in a relevant discipline (or equivalent overseas qualification), or a lower second plus a good masters degree (distinction normally required).

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, you will be required to have an IELTS Academic of 6.5 or above (or equivalent), with no sub-test score below 6.