Postdoctoral Fellow in Electrical Engineering

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL) Building Technology Urban Systems Division has an opening for an Electrical Engineering Postdoctoral Fellow to join the team.

In this exciting role, you will conduct applied research with minimal supervision on power distribution, systems, electronics, and controls for broader adoption of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) in buildings, microgrids, and other “grid edge” applications. You will conceptualize and conduct research on novel low-voltage (<1000V) power systems, such as DC power distribution, plug-in DERs, or smart power-sharing devices. Projects aim to improve energy efficiency, cost, resilience, renewable energy utilization, and power capacity management. The position involves designing and testing the hardware and controls for building-scale power electronics and networked energy control systems. It also involves analyzing or simulating the system power flow, energy, and cost. You will be expected to manage the technical work with minimal supervision, oversee student research, publish in journals, and contribute to proposals.

What You Will Do:

• Conduct analytical research on power distribution, electronics, distributed energy resources (DERs), and networked control systems. Studies may include power and energy simulations, techno-economic analyses, and customer discovery interviews. The incumbent works on complex problems and provides solutions that are highly innovative and ingenious. The incumbent may also oversee the technical work of students. 
• Conduct experimental research on the topics listed above in (1). The incumbent will conduct experiments in an electronics lab or FLEXLAB testing chamber, often designing, assembling and testing prototype electronics, devices, and equipment. The incumbent may occasionally travel to field sites to perform deployment, installation, or measurement and verification activities. 
• Participate in publishing research findings in archival journals and present at academic conferences. Connect with funders, industry, and other academic institutions through regular outreach activities, communication, and collaboration.
• Contribute to project development and proposals for research funding. 

What is Required:

• Advanced degree in electrical engineering, physics, energy, or related field.
• 2-5 years relevant post-degree experience, either in an academic or industry research lab.
• Broad theoretical knowledge of power electronics, power systems, and controls (any application).
• Broad understanding of electrical equipment and power distribution systems in buildings.
• Electronics laboratory experience with hardware and instruments such as an oscilloscope.
• Programming skills in Python.
• Excellent verbal (including public speaking) and written communications skills.
• Proven ability to independently plan and complete projects with minimal supervision. Ability to oversee day-to-day tasks of students.
• Incumbent will be expected to take the training for an LBNL Qualified Electrical Worker 1 rating to safely work on <400V electrical systems

Desired Qualifications:

• PhD in electrical engineering.
• Demonstrated ability to publish, including journals, conferences, reports, or patents.
• Laboratory skills with electronic devices, thermal testing, firmware, and software. Prior experience using a microcontroller (e.g. Arduino) and embedded computer (e.g. Raspberry Pi).
• Prior experience in field testing electrical systems in buildings for purposes of measuring and verifying energy performance.
• Desired programming languages include C, C++, and Matlab.
• Prior electronics simulation experience with PSIM, PLECS, Modelica, or Matlab/Simulink. Familiarity with energy simulation tools such as EnergyPlus, scripts in Python, or spreadsheet calculations.

For consideration, please apply with the following application materials:

• Cover Letter - Describe your interest in this position and the relevance of your background.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Notes:

• This is a full-time, 2 years, postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
• The monthly salary range for this position is $7,790 / mo - $8,701.00 / mo and is expected to start at $7,790 / mo or above. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. Each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D. postdoctoral and/or related research experience.
• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• This position is eligible for a flexible work mode, with onsite or hybrid work being the preferred modes. Hybrid work is a combination of teleworking and performing work on-site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab. Work schedules are dependent on business needs.

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Berkeley Lab is committed to inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility and strives to continue building community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.

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