Research Associate - Grid Modeling

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and retirement plans

Flexible work hours

On-site fitness facilities

Childcare amenities

Educational assistance

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory is looking for a Research Associate to conduct R&D in EMT simulation software and bulk power systems. The ideal candidate will develop electromagnetic transient models and simulation algorithms to enable large-scale simulations.

Additionally, they will work under general guidance, preparing scientific manuscripts and presenting research findings at conferences. Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in electrical engineering and have expertise in power systems, C/C++, Matlab, and Python.

The position offers competitive benefits including medical and retirement plans, flexible hours, and various employee amenities.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in electrical engineering or related field is required.
• Minimum of two years' experience post-Ph.D.
• Expertise in power systems and power electronics is essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop electromagnetic transient models for bulk power systems.
• Integrate grid component models into open-source software tools.
• Align behaviors with ORNL's core values in all interactions.

Skills

Power systems expertise

Power electronics knowledge

C/C++ programming

Matlab programming

Python programming

Education

Ph.D. in electrical engineering or related field

Tools

PSCAD

PSS/e

Job description

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 Research Associate to perform R&D in one or more of the following areas: development of EMT simulation software, 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. Candidates will 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 models for bulk power systems, synchronous generators, large loads, 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.


• 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.

Basic Qualifications

• 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• 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.

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.

New employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation, including declaration of illegal drug activities (including marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law).

Foreign national candidates who have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead must obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination. Once the three‑year residency requirement is met, a PIV credential is required.

Benefits

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. Benefits include medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours to support the well‑being of employees and their families. Employee amenities such as on‑site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include: 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, and Employee Discounts.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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.