Research Scientist - Theoretical Physics

Hitachi Energy; Isle Forest (NC); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement benefits

Paid leave

Flexible work

Job summary

Hitachi Energy in Raleigh, North Carolina, is seeking a Research Scientist focused on theoretical physics applications for power system simulation. You will develop numerical simulation approaches, create models, and collaborate across research, engineering, and business units to address grid challenges.

Working with external partners and publishing results, you will advance modeling techniques and optimization methods for large-scale power systems, contributing to energy transition and grid

Qualifications

• PhD in theoretical physics or related field; masters considered
• Work authorization to be employed in the United States
• Experience designing numerical simulation algorithms for large-scale systems
• Strong publication record
• Proficiency in English communication

Responsibilities

• Develop numerical simulation approaches for power system applications
• Collaborate with global researchers and engineers to build software and models
• Create prototypes and validate new simulation concepts
• Publish results and contribute to patents and technical reports
• Ensure compliance with external and internal regulations and guidelines

Skills

C/C++

Python

CUDA

Fortran

Numerical Methods

Optimization

Mathematical Modeling

English Communication

Education

PhD in Theoretical Physics / Mathematics / Engineering

PhD or Masters considered

Tools

Automatic Differentiation

Optimization Languages

Job description

Research Scientist - Theoretical Physics

As a Research Scientist focused on theoretical physics applications for power system simulation, you will develop and advance numerical simulation approaches that support future power system technologies. The role involves collaborating with researchers, engineers, business units, universities, national laboratories, startups, and vendors to create software applications, mathematical and physical models, and simulation algorithms that address challenges associated with the energy transition and the future grid. You will propose research projects, develop and validate prototypes, explore optimization-based methods, and implement simulation techniques for large‑scale systems. The work includes sharing results through publications, patent applications, and technical reports while supporting the execution of research projects across a global organization. By improving simulation capabilities and advancing modeling approaches for power systems, this role contributes to power grid reliability and continued innovation in energy technologies. This opportunity will be based at our research center in Raleigh, North Carolina.

How You'll Make an Impact

• Collaborate with global researchers and engineers to develop software applications for power systems.
• Propose and develop new approaches for creating, running, and using numerical simulations with business impact.
• Build prototypes and verify new simulation concepts and methods.
• Develop approaches that combine mathematical and physical power system models with mathematical optimization technologies.
• Implement novel simulation algorithms and work across multiple simulation software tools.
• Support business units and contribute to the successful execution of research projects.
• Share knowledge across the organization and collaborate with external research and industry partners.
• Publish results through scientific publications, patent applications, and technical reports.
• Responsible to ensure compliance with applicable external and internal regulations, procedures, and guidelines.

Your Background

• Candidate must already have work authorization that would permit them to work for Hitachi Energy in the United States.
• Ph.D. degree in Theoretical Physics, Mathematics, Engineering or any related field. Highly qualified candidates with a master's degree may also be considered.
• Interest in and willingness to learn about power systems engineering, energy transition and operations research.
• Experience in designing, developing, and executing numerical simulation algorithms for large‑scale systems.
• Willingness to take an interdisciplinary approach, working with experts from domains different from their own area of expertise.
• Experience in the following topics is highly valued: Numerical Methods for Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations, Convex and Nonconvex Optimization, Fourier Analysis.
• Experience with mathematical modeling languages for optimization problems.
• Experience using automatic differentiation.
• Experience using algorithmic performance optimization for running large‑scale mathematical solvers.
• Strong programming experience (e.g. C, C++, CUDA, Python, Fortran).
• Solid theoretical background with publications in renowned journals and conferences.
• Excellent innovation capability and competence in application‑oriented research.
• Self‑motivated, high curiosity and ability to learn new technologies.
• Attention to detail and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills in English.

More About Us

You will gain exposure to multidisciplinary research, collaboration across global teams, and opportunities to expand your technical knowledge.

• Work on innovative energy technologies related to power systems, simulation methods, and the energy transition.
• Collaborate with experienced professionals across research teams, engineering groups, and business units.
• Access learning and development opportunities through research projects, knowledge sharing, and external collaborations.
• Receive health and retirement benefits.
• Benefit from paid leave and workplace flexibility.