Postdoctoral Appointee – Power Systems Modeling and Control

Argonne National Laboratory; Lemont (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 118,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative research institution seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to tackle future grid challenges. This role involves modeling and analyzing electric distribution and transmission systems while applying state-of-the-art algorithms. You'll collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop groundbreaking solutions in energy systems and power grid domains. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to real-world applications, ensuring reliable integration of microgrids and distributed energy resources. Join a forward-thinking organization committed to inclusivity and excellence in research.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

Research opportunities

Collaborative work environment

Open-source software development initiatives

Qualifications

• Recent PhD in relevant fields with expertise in power systems modeling.
• Experience in advanced optimization and machine learning applications.

Responsibilities

• Model and analyze electric distribution and transmission systems.
• Collaborate with teams to develop solutions for energy systems challenges.

Skills

Python

OpenDSS

Control/Optimization

Machine Learning

Cybersecurity

Git

Mathematics/Statistics

Education

PhD in Electrical Engineering

PhD in Computer Science

PhD in Operations Research

Tools

MATPOWER

PSS/E

CYME

GridLAB-D

Pyomo

TensorFlow

Pytorch

Keras

Job description

Postdoctoral Appointee – Power Systems Modeling and Control

Join to apply for the Postdoctoral Appointee – Power Systems Modeling and Control role at Argonne National Laboratory.

The Advanced Grid Modeling group at Argonne National Laboratory's Center for Energy, Environmental, and Economic Systems Analysis (CEEESA) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher for projects related to the integration of microgrids, distributed energy resources (DERs), and advanced transmission & distribution (T&D) coordination. This role is ideal for a researcher passionate about future grid challenges, including widespread integration of DERs. The selected candidate will model, analyze, and control electric distribution and transmission systems, applying state-of-the-art algorithms to develop cybersecurity, optimization, and control solutions for real-world grid applications.

Candidates will be required to work in at least 4 of the following areas:

1. Build, simulate, and evaluate distribution networks in OpenDSS; investigate feeder- and system-level impacts of DERs (e.g., load flow, hosting capacity, voltage regulation). Develop and refine T&D co-simulation platforms (e.g., Argonne’s TDCosim) for integrated analysis of microgrids, DERs, and utility-scale systems; implement methods to synchronize transmission-focused simulators with distribution-level tools.
2. Demonstrate familiarity with DMS and DERMS functionalities and architectures; evaluate and enhance operational schemes under high DER penetration.
3. Model microgrids in distribution networks including dynamic and steady-state representations for real-time analysis; investigate aggregator-driven DER coordination strategies for day-ahead scheduling and real-time operations under various market or reliability signals.
4. Develop advanced optimization, control, or machine learning strategies for distribution systems; validate these strategies using hardware-in-the-loop or real-time grid simulators.
5. Develop optimization models that combine T&D objectives (e.g., power flow limits, resilience) with aggregator/market participation; evaluate how microgrids and VPPs can offer services while ensuring reliable local operation.
6. Work with T&D software (e.g., OpenDSS, PSS/E) to gather data, run simulations, and assess grid-wide impacts.

Additionally, candidates will:

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop innovative solutions and technologies for complex challenges in energy systems and power grid domains.
• Present research findings through seminars, journal articles, technical reports, and at conferences and workshops.
• Contribute to open-source software development initiatives for Department of Energy projects.

Position Requirements

• Recent or soon-to-be-completed PhD (typically within the last 0-5 years) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Operations Research, or a closely related field.
• Experience in power systems, distribution systems, or microgrid modeling, with a solid understanding of advanced co-simulation or real-time simulation methods.
• Demonstrated expertise in control/optimization and/or cybersecurity measures for power systems, machine learning applications in energy, and a comprehensive understanding of power distribution systems.
• Working knowledge of electric power distribution systems, DER operations, and grid modeling & simulation.
• Working knowledge of Git.
• Proficiency in Python and OpenDSS.
• Proficiency in frameworks like Pyomo and/or TensorFlow/Pytorch/Keras.
• Solid foundation in mathematics/statistics, with experience in cyber-physical systems modeling.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Demonstrated experience in interdisciplinary research and problem-solving.
• Skilled in oral and written communication at all levels of the organization.
• A record of publications in peer-reviewed journals and familiarity with proposal development.
• Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork.
• Ability to make our laboratory a safe, welcoming, inclusive, and accessible environment where all can thrive.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with power transmission and distribution system simulation tools such as MATPOWER, PSS/E, CYME, or GridLAB-D.
• Experience working with DMS and DERMS platforms, and utility communication protocols like DNP3.
• Knowledge of transmission-distribution co-simulation and co-optimization frameworks.
• Familiarity with aggregator-based DER coordination, microgrid controls, or distributed optimization methods.

Interested candidates should submit:

• A detailed CV
• A cover letter describing your research experience and interests.
• GitHub profile (if available)

Job Family

Postdoctoral

Job Profile

Postdoctoral Appointee

Worker Type

Long-Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type

Full time

The expected hiring range for this position is $70,758.00-$117,925.00. Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the candidate, and market considerations. Comprehensive benefits are included in the total rewards package.

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As an equal employment opportunity employer, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe, welcoming, and inclusive workplace. We encourage everyone to apply for employment and consider all qualified applicants without discrimination.