Research Scientist – Theoretical Physics

Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc.; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Paid leave

Workplace flexibility

Job summary

Hitachi Energy seeks a Research Scientist to advance numerical simulation methods for power systems at its Raleigh, NC facility. The role focuses on theoretical physics applications, developing software, and proposing new approaches to modeling and optimization for future grid technologies.

Candidates will work with researchers across global teams, publish results, and contribute to innovative energy technologies.

Qualifications

• PhD in Theoretical Physics or related field is required; master's considered for strong candidates.
• Experience designing, developing, and executing numerical simulation algorithms for large-scale systems.
• Strong programming experience in C/C++, Python, and possibly CUDA or Fortran.
• Ability to collaborate across disciplines and publish results in scientific venues or reports.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with global researchers and engineers to develop software applications for power systems.
• Propose and develop new numerical simulation approaches with business impact.
• Build prototypes and verify new simulation concepts and methods.
• Develop models that combine mathematical and physical power system representations with optimization technologies.
• Implement novel simulation algorithms across multiple tools and platforms.
• Support research execution for global Hitachi teams and partners.
• Publish results through publications and patents as appropriate.
• Ensure compliance with external and internal regulations and guidelines.

Skills

Numerical simulations

C/C++/Python

Optimization methods

Mathematical modeling

English communication

Education

PhD in Theoretical Physics

Master's degree considered

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

Fortran

CUDA

Parallel computing

Job description

Research Scientist – Theoretical Physics

Location: Raleigh, North Carolina, United States

Job Schedule: Full time

Remote: No

The Opportunity

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.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)-Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities Equal Employment Opportunity Hitachi is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer.

We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, including females, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

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Hitachi brings together the world’s greatest minds to help breathe life into new possibilities – and drive innovation for a better future. That’s why we look for individuals who share our pioneering spirit, have imaginative ideas and are fearless when it comes to tackling the world’s biggest challenges. Our people love technology – and they love making a difference. They have a passion for finding new solutions and working with brilliant colleagues. Every day they dedicate themselves to a huge range of exciting projects, contributing to the Hitachi vision around the globe. From engineering new sustainability solutions that conserve water and energy to creating the infrastructure for the smart cities of tomorrow, there’s no challenge too great for our pioneers. And there’s no shortage of opportunities for you to make a difference. Come and experience the dynamic, collaborative and creative environments where your ideas are welcome and new discoveries are waiting. To help you grow to your full potential, we strive to support our employees in their career aspirations and promote the freedom to explore new horizons.

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