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

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

Location:

Golden, CO

Position Type:
Postdoc (Fixed Term)

Hours per Week: 40

This position is within the Energy Systems Control and Optimization (ESCO) group within the Power Systems Engineering Center (PSEC)  focuses on advancing transient stability studies in inverter-based-resources (I )-dominant grids.

• 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 script to run large set of simulation scenarios, and extract key features for studies.
• Develop protective relay models based on vendor’s relay datasheet and manual.
• Perform comprehensive fault studies to evaluate adequacy of existing protection schemes, propose improved protection schemes and validate through simulated relay models.
• Lead and contribute to journal articles, conference papers, and technical reports.

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

• Experience in I
  -dominant power systems and low-inertia dynamics.
• Familiarity with advanced control strategies for power stability.
• Experience publishing peer-reviewed articles.
• Prior engagement with industry collaborative projects.

The anticipated closing window for application submission is up to 30 days and may be extended as needed.

$76,600 – $126,400 (full-time 40 hours per week)

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; paid holidays; and performance-based awards.

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, race, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding), sexual orientation, and any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws.