PhD Position: Fluid Gap Electrostatic Transducers for Soft Robotics and Energy Harvesting

We are looking for a talented individual to join our team as a PhD candidate at the Institute of Mechanical Intelligence at the Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna. 

The Project

This exciting PhD project, supervised by Prof. Marco Fontana within the Robotics Mechanisms and Materials laboratory, focuses on the innovative technology of Fluid Gap Electrostatic Transducers for Robotics and Energy Harvesting (also known as HASEL, Electro Ribbon Actuators and Dielectric Fluid Transducers). Our research is leading the way in developing fluid gap electrostatic actuators/generators, which represent a revolutionary advancement in robotic systems and energy harvesting technologies.

The successful candidate will join the Robotic Mechanisms and Materials (RMM) research group, which is pioneering the use of functional soft/flexible materials in robotic mechanisms [1,2]. Unlike traditional approaches that depend on rigid components and electromagnetic motors, our research aims to exploit the adaptability and exceptional performance of these innovative materials. This offers a new enabling technology for creating robotic systems capable of operating efficiently in various environments.

Our research intersects the fields of mechanics, materials science, and robotics, with the goal of utilizing the robustness, intrinsic performances, and responsiveness of these materials. We are developing next-generation untethered/wearable/portable robotic systems equipped with fluid gap electrostatic actuators and innovative generators to convert mechanical energy into electricity. 

Position Available: PhD Candidate (3 Years)

We seek a passionate candidate who is eager to dive into this cutting-edge research. The ideal candidate should be prepared to conduct independent research and be enthusiastic about learning new skills and shoud be ready to engage a challenging exeperimental/practical activities required to implement demonstrations and prototypes of novel devices . A Master’s degree (or equivalent) engineering/physics or related fields is required, along with strong quantitative skills. Proficiency in English and excellent organizational and communication skills are essential for successful collaboration across diverse scientific disciplines.

Our Offer:

The PhD position has a start date on 1st October 2024. The Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna values diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

Deadline for Application: 7 May 2024 

For informal inquiries and information on how to apply, please contact (better before April 30).

Prof. Marco Fontana at marco.fontana@santannapisa.it. 

References: 

[1] Sîrbu, I.D., Moretti, G., Bortolotti, G., Bolignari, M., Dirè, S., Fambri, L., Vertechy, R. and Fontana, M., 2021. Electrostatic bellow muscle actuators and energy harvesters that stack up. Science Robotics, 6(51), p.eaaz5796.

[2] Sîrbu, I.D., Preninger, D., Danninger, D., Penkner, L., Schwödiauer, R., Moretti, G., Arnold, N., Fontana, M. and Kaltenbrunner, M., 2023. Electrostatic actuators with constant force at low power loss using matched dielectrics. Nature Electronics, 6(11), pp.888-899.