Research Scientist – Theoretical Physics

Hitachi, Ltd.; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Paid leave

Workplace flexibility

Job summary

Hitachi Energy in Raleigh, NC is seeking a Research Scientist in Theoretical Physics to advance numerical simulation methods for future power systems. You will collaborate with researchers, engineers, universities, and industry partners to develop software applications, mathematical models, and optimization-based methods for large-scale grid simulations.

You will propose new research directions, build prototypes, and validate concepts while sharing results through publications and reports.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics, Mathematics, Engineering or related field; highly qualified candidates with a master’s may be considered.
• Experience designing, developing, and executing numerical simulation algorithms for large-scale systems.
• Experience with mathematical modeling languages for optimization problems.

Responsibilities

• Develop and advance numerical simulation approaches for power system models.
• Collaborate with researchers, engineers, and external partners to create software applications and models.
• Propose research projects and develop prototypes; validate concepts and publish results.
• Implement optimization-based methods and simulation algorithms for large-scale systems.
• Share results through publications, patents, and technical reports.

Skills

Numerical simulation

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Optimization methods

Automatic differentiation

Algorithmic performance optimization

Mathematical modeling languages

C/C++/CUDA/Python/Fortran

Strong communication skills

Self-motivated

Attention to detail

English proficiency

Education

Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics / Mathematics / Engineering

Master’s degree (considered)

Tools

C/C++/CUDA/Python/Fortran

Job description

Job Description

Research Scientist – Theoretical Physics

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

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