Postdoctoral Research Associate - Grid Modeling

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Prescription Drug Plan

Dental Plan

Vision Plan

401(k) Retirement Plan

Generous Vacation and Holidays

Relocation Assistance

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct R&D in electromagnetic transient simulation and software development. The position involves developing EMT models and simulation algorithms, focusing on advanced grid modeling and various applications.

Ideal candidates have a Ph.D. in electrical engineering or a related discipline, strong skills in power systems, and programming experience with C/C++, Matlab, and Python. Competitive benefits are provided, promoting a diverse workplace.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree completed within the last five years.
• Experience in power systems software.
• Expertise in power systems and power electronics.

Responsibilities

• Develop electromagnetic transient models for transmission or distribution grids.
• Develop simulation algorithms for large-scale simulations.
• Integrate grid models into open-source software tools.

Skills

Power systems

Power electronics

C/C++ programming

Matlab programming

Python programming

Education

Ph.D. in electrical engineering or related discipline

Tools

PSCAD

PSS/e

Job description

Requisition Id16569

Overview

The Grid Transients & Advanced Modeling 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 Postdoctoral Research Associate to perform R&D in the areas of electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulation and software development as well as dynamic and transient inverter modeling and different applications of the simulation. 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 group supports the energy reliability 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 Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation (CMEI) on the integration of new technologies, identifying and validating new ways of using existing and emerging grid assets to ensure grid reliability and affordability of energy supplies. The group focuses on advanced grid modeling using advanced computing resources (e.g., quantum computing), EMT simulations, and power electronics control.

Major Duties/Responsibilities

• Develop electromagnetic transient (EMT) models for transmission or distribution grids, synchronous generators, large loads, transmission networks, etc.
• Develop simulation algorithms that enable large‑scale simulations.
• Integrate (or co‑simulate) grid component/device models into open‑source software tools for integrated system dynamic and transient simulations.
• Integrate post‑processing measures for simulations to help with automation.

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.

Basic Qualifications

• A Ph.D. degree in electrical engineering, or related discipline completed within the last five years.
• Expertise in power systems and power electronics.
• Experience in C/C++, Matlab, and Python programming.
• Experience in power systems software like PSCAD, PSS/e.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with software development.
• Experience with use of GPUs, multi‑core CPUs, advanced computing (e.g., 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.

Postdocs

Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant 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.

Benefits

• Prescription Drug Plan
• Dental Plan
• Vision Plan
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Contributory Pension Plan
• Life Insurance
• Disability Benefits
• Generous Vacation and Holidays
• Parental Leave
• Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Health Savings Accounts
• Wellness Programs
• Educational Assistance
• Relocation Assistance
• Employee Discounts

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT‑Battelle is an E‑Verify employer.