Research Associate

University of Utah; Salt Lake City (UT); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Utah invites applications for a Senior Power Systems Research Associate to lead advanced research on power systems operation, planning and resilience, including large-scale data center integration. You will develop models, perform analyses, and mentor students within a collaborative lab environment.

Responsibilities include publishing findings, presenting at conferences, and coordinating with industry partners and stakeholders to advance grid innovation and project deliverables.

Qualifications

• PhD in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Computer Science, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience with power systems modeling and analysis, data analysis, and AI/ML techniques.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Track record of publications in peer‑reviewed journals and conferences.
• Ability to collaborate in interdisciplinary, large projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead research and development on power systems operation, planning and resilience with data center integration.
• Publish technical reports, papers, and presentations; present at conferences.
• Mentor junior researchers, graduate students, and interns.
• Collaborate with industry partners, government agencies and stakeholders; manage projects and deliverables.

Skills

Power systems modeling

Data analysis

AI & ML techniques

Excellent communication

Education

PhD in Electrical Engineering / Industrial Engineering / Computer Science

Job description

Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time)

Job Summary

Overview The Utah Smart Energy Laboratory (U-Smart) at the University of Utah has an immediate opening for a Senior Power Systems Research Associate. This position will be responsible for leading research, development and demonstration projects on power systems operation, planning, and resilience, with large-scale data center integration. This role offers a unique opportunity to work on cutting‑edge power grid innovations that will shape the future of the field.

Responsibilities

• Power Systems Analysis and Modeling: Develop and apply advanced power systems models and simulations to assess the performance, flexibility, reliability and resilience of power systems, considering the integration of large-scale data centers, and scenarios such as integration with energy storage and distributed energy resources, various level of adoption and impacts of extreme weather events.
• Publications and Reporting: Prepare technical reports, papers, and presentations to communicate the findings and insights. Publish in relevant venues and present at conferences.
• Mentoring: Provide guidance and mentorship to junior researchers, graduate students, and interns working on relevant projects at the University of Utah.
• Collaboration and Project Management: Collaborate with industry partners, government agencies, and other stakeholders to advance research and innovation on grid resilience. Manage projects, write reports and deliverables ad needed for the success of the projects.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Prior experience in power systems modeling and analysis, and strong background on data analysis, AI and ML techniques.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Track record of publications in peer‑reviewed journals and presentations at conferences.
• Ability to work effectively on large projects in a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment.

Additional Information

The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at [phone] for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post‑retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at [phone] or [phone] or University Human Resource Management at [phone] if you have questions regarding the post‑retirement rules.

This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.

The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.

Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.

Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy‑related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.

To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX ( OEO ). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah Non‑Discrimination page.

Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu.

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This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security‑related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.

As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.

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University Human Resource Management
250 East 200 South, Suite 125 Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Contact us: [phone] By Email: [e-mail]