Research Associate - Grid Modeling

Overview

The Power Systems Resilience (PSR) Group in the Electrification and Energy Infrastructure Division (EEID) within the Energy Science and Technology Directorate (ESTD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a Research Associate to perform R&D in the areas of bulk power systems electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulations, high-fidelity dynamic and transient power electronics resources modeling, explore different intelligence algorithms to enhance ease of usage of simulations, and different applications of EMT simulations.

Selection will be based on qualifications, relevant experience, skills, and education. You should be highly self-motivated and independent in conducting research under general guidance and are expected to prepare manuscripts for scientific publication and present the work to sponsors and at conferences.

The PSR Group supports the energy security and prosperity mission of the Energy Department (DOE) through transformative science and technology solutions, including research supporting the Office of Electricity (OE), Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security and Emergency Response (CESER) and Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) on the integration of new technologies, identifying and validating new ways of using existing and emerging grid assets to ensure grid reliability, grid resilience, environmental stewardship, and affordability of energy supplies.

The PSR group focuses on electric grid modeling, energy security analysis, protection systems R&D, EMT simulations, and power electronics control.

• Develop electromagnetic transient models for bulk power systems, synchronous generators, large loads, etc.
• Develop simulation algorithms that enable large-scale simulations and/or AI/ML experience for intelligence in simulations or for data-driven modeling.
• Integrate (or co-simulate) grid component/device models into open-source software tools for integrated system dynamic and transient simulations.
• Develop different applications and use cases for EMT simulations.
• Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace - in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

• A Ph.D. in electrical engineering, or related field.
• Minimum of two years' experience post-Ph.D.
• Expertise in power systems and power electronics.
• Experience in C/C++, Matlab, and Python programming.
• Experience in power systems software like PSCAD, PSS/e.

• Experience in real-time simulation hardware like Opal-RT and RTDS.
• Experience with software development.
• Experience with use of DSPs, FPGAs, advanced computing (e.g., GPUs, QPUs).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever-changing needs.

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real  form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.

To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

For foreign national candidates:

If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment.

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