Opportunities

Current Opportunities at MVP [Updated: June 4, 2025]

Graduate Opportunities

I'm looking for a PhD student to work on advanced energy storage systems based on sodium-ion battery technology. If interested in being considered, please send me an email directly at [philippe.gray@ucalgary.ca] with a copy of your CV and transcripts.

Undergraduate/Bachelor Opportunities

Domestic Summer internships:
For domestic students, if interested in doing a summer research internship on a power electronics related research project in Summer 2026 please reach out to me directly at [philippe.gray@ucalgary.ca] before December 2025.

Capstone or 4th year thesis:

If interested in me supervising your capstone project or a 4th year thesis project for 2025, please reach out to me directly [philippe.gray@ucalgary.ca].

Areas of Research Relevant to Openings

Solid-State Transformers for Hybrid AC-DC Grids

The electrical grid is undergoing a transformation from being of primarily ac type towards being more of a hybrid of both ac and dc types. This transition is being driven by the shift towards renewables and modern loads that are inherently dc. One of our research focuses is on developing advanced solid-state transformer technologies to enable this future grid where dc technologies are pervasive from distribution to transmission voltage levels. A key application for solid-state transformers is for fast charging of electric vehicles (EV). Our research in this area, includes developing novel power electronic converter topologies, controls and modulation techniques.

Power Electronics for Future Electric Transportation Applications

To drastically drive down costs of electric vehicles, cut down charging times, and enable the electrification of new types of vehicle classes, advancements in electric powertrain technologies will be required. A research focus of ours is on developing new power electronic technologies including the onboard charger and auxiliary power converters for electric vehicles. Research includes developing high-frequency power electronic converter topologies, controls and modulation techniques.

Why join us at MVP?

Most of the research work involves some combination of analytical work, simulations, control design, and designing, building and testing custom hardware. Hardware-based validation is an essential component of all research in our lab. To validate concepts for grid and vehicle applications, it is critical to have the capability of running experiments at higher voltages. As part of the group, you will gain experience working on power electronics design as well as working on cutting-edge applications. You will also get the chance to develop your skills working with advanced software tools such as PLECS, MATLAB and Altium Designer, among others. Gaining experience designing printed circuit board assemblies is also critical for developing your expertise in power electronics and many of the envisioned projects will give you this opportunity. Outside of developing your power electronics background and innovation skills, Calgary is a great city to live in with proximity to mountains and nature. The University of Calgary was ranked #8 in Canada from Times Higher Education 2022.