Postdoctoral Researcher: Inverter- Resources; IBR Driven Power Stability and Protection Study

Postdoctoral Researcher:
Inverter-based Resources (I ) Driven Power Stability and Protection Study

Location: CO - Golden

Position Type: Postdoc (Fixed Term)

Hours Per Week: 40

This position is within the Energy Systems Control and Optimization group at the Power Systems Engineering Center, National Laboratory of the Rockies. It focuses on advanced transient stability studies in inverter‑based‑resource dominant grids, developing EMT models, simulation scripts, protective relay models, and mitigation strategies for I ‑driven stability and protection.

• Perform deep fundamental studies to investigate I ‑driven stability from device level to system level and propose stability improvement control strategies for I  dominant power systems with low inertia and short‑circuit ratio (SCR).
• Build I ‑dominant power systems EMT model in PSCAD and develop automatic scripts to run large sets of simulation scenarios, extracting key features for studies.
• Develop protective relay models based on vendor datasheets and manuals.
• Perform comprehensive fault studies to evaluate the adequacy of existing protection schemes and propose improved protection schemes, validating results through simulated relay models and commercial protective relays for industry‑collaborated projects.
• Lead and contribute to journal articles, conference papers, and technical reports.

Must be a recent PhD graduate within the last three years and meet educational requirements prior to employment start date.

• Strong background in power electronics, control theory, and power system stability; experience with I  modeling, control, and stability analysis (small‑signal, transient stability).
• Significant experience with power system simulation tools such as PSCAD, PSSE, PSLF, Matlab/Simulink, RSCAD, and high proficiency with Python programming.
• Knowledge of protection relays (differential, distance, directional, traveling wave) and experience with relay configuration, hardware‑in‑the‑loop testing, and results analysis.
• Excellent writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and troubleshoot issues.

$76,600 – $126,400

Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; short‑term disability insurance; pension benefits; 403(b) Employee Savings Plan with employer match; life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance; personal time off and sick leave; and paid holidays. Some positions may be eligible for relocation expense reimbursement.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, domestic partner status, military or veteran status, national origin/ancestry, race, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding), sexual orientation, or any other applicable status protected by federal, state, or local laws.