Post Doctoral Associate: Digital Power Grid

Clemson University has built a 15 MW Hardware in the loop (HIL) Grid Simulator that will provide a platform for research, testing, and workforce development at the Zucker Graduate Education Center (ZGEC) in North Charleston, SC. The research facility was named in November 2013 as the Duke Energy Electric Grid Research, Innovation, and Development Center (eGRID). More information can be found at clemsonenergy.com.

The Post-Doctoral Associate will report directly to the Executive Director of the Power Program at ZGEC, Clemson University. This is a two-year appointment and requires an individual with a commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, an excellent understanding of, and experience in power systems and power electronic research and development, experience in software and hardware development, high-speed real-time simulation and data acquisition with outstanding interpersonal and team skills. It is expected that this individual develops a unique research program that extends the capabilities and applicability of the ZGEC and eGRID facility. The Research Professor will work closely with industry partners, Clemson University faculty, and students as well as visiting scientists to develop and operate a world-class power systems program to accelerate the introduction of new technologies into the electrical power market.

The duties and responsibilities of this position will contribute directly to improving the quality of research, education and industry relations at the ZGEC and eGRID.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Develop new research initiatives and proposals related to Digital Grid, and Virtual Power Plants (VPP) and energy storage opportunities to expand the research portfolio at the SCE&G Energy Innovation Center in alignment with the Clemson Forward 2020 Strategy. (40%)
2. Develop and implement Smart Grid modeling, simulation, and analysis research program to: (35%)
   • Support the integration of energy storage and VPPs,
   • Develop and help validate dynamic models of VPPs,
   • Provide ongoing support and model development of the real-time simulator for improving testing capabilities,
   • Develop strategies for developing a VPP demonstration installation.
3. Support the day to day operations and activities at the research and education program at the ZGEC. (10%)
4. Disseminate research contributions through conference proceedings and peer-reviewed publications. (10%)
5. Provide mentoring and guidance to undergraduate and graduate interns and students. (5%)

• Engineering degree from an accredited university, college or institution of higher learning. Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science is required.
• Proficient with the real-time simulation modeling tools is recommended.
• Proficient with the power engineering simulation tools like PSCAD, PSSE, MATLAB, and Simulink is recommended.
• Experience in hardware and software development.
• Good oral and written communication and organizational skills with the ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team, communicate findings/insights, and meet commitments for deliverables including group presentations
• Ability to work independently and in group settings

For full consideration, please submit the following materials by May 20, 2018:

Cover letter, curriculum vitae, publication list, dissertation abstract, three professional reference names and contact information, and a brief but thorough research proposal (five-page maximum).

Reviews will begin immediately but will continue until the position is filled.

Clemson University is an AA/EEO employer and does not discriminate against any person or group on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, pregnancy, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status or genetic information. Clemson University is building a culturally diverse faculty and staff committed to working in a multicultural environment and encourages applications from minorities and women.