Electronic Engineering Research Scientist (Distributed Energy Resources)

Berkeley Lab’s Building Technology and Urban Systems (BTUS) Division invites applications for an Electronic Engineering Research Scientist to apply research on improving power electronics for broader adoption of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) in buildings and other “grid edge” applications.

In this role, you will conceptualize and conduct research on novel, low-voltage (<1000V) power electronic systems, such as direct DC power distribution, to improve energy efficiency and renewable energy utilization in buildings and microgrids. This position primarily involves analyzing, designing and testing the hardware and controls for advanced AC and DC power electronic systems, as well as networked energy control systems in buildings. Additionally, it requires management of research projects, taking a crucial role in guiding the research and significantly affecting the project direction: contributing to proposals, interacting with funders, planning and conducting research, and overseeing personnel to ensure the research goals are met.

What You Will Do:

• Conceptualize and conduct analytical and experimental research on the efficiency, reliability, cost, and safety of power electronics for AC and DC power systems in buildings. The research covers the topics of power electronics, microgrids (both AC and DC), controls, power systems in buildings, renewable energy systems, and motor drives.

• Work on complex problems and provide solutions that are highly innovative and ingenious.

• Design, assemble and test prototype power electronic devices for power conversion and end-use equipment in buildings.

• Oversee the technical work of students and junior staff. 

• Conceptualize and conduct analytical and experimental research on networked energy control systems for buildings, including designing, assembling, and testing prototype systems.

• Participate in publishing research findings in archival journals and may present at academic conferences. 

• Connect with funders, industry, and other academic institutions through regular outreach activities, communication, and collaboration.

• Conceptualize and prepare successful proposals for research funding. 

• Interact with funding agencies to determine client needs and research program goals, and ensure that research goals are met.

• Manage and maintain the capabilities of a power electronics lab, including management of equipment and personnel.

What is Required:

• Advanced Degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field and a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience either in an academic or industry research environment or the equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Broad theoretical knowledge of power electronics and power systems.

• Analytical skills in power electronics and microgrids, including hardware design, controls, and power systems.

• Laboratory experience in power electronics and hardware.

• Broad understanding of electrical equipment and power distribution systems in buildings.

• Electronics simulation experience with Simulink or Modelica.

• Programming skills in Python, C, and Matlab. 

• Excellent verbal, written, and presentational communication skills.

• Proven ability to oversee day-to-day tasks of students, junior researchers and other staff.

• Knowledge of all EH&S requirements for safety. Ability to obtain the LBNL Qualified Electrical Worker certification covering work on <400V electrical systems, including knowledge of lock-out/tag-out procedures and use of electrical personal protection equipment.

What We Prefer:

• Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering.

• Proven publication record in peer-reviewed literature, in the field of power electronics for distributed energy resources, particularly DC power systems.

• Laboratory skills with electronic devices, thermal testing, firmware, and software. 

• Experience in field testing electrical systems in buildings for purposes of measuring and verifying energy performance.

• Electronics simulation experience with PSIM or PLECS.

• Programming experience with C++, C#, and Java.

• Familiarity with building energy simulation programs such as EnergyPlus.

• Experience preparing grant funding proposals.

Requested Application Materials:

• Cover Letter.

• Curriculum Vitae.

• Statement of research experience and interests.

• Publication List.

The posting shall remain open until the position is filled, however for full consideration, please apply by close of business on April 16, 2020.

Notes:

• This is a full time, M-F, exempt from overtime pay (monthly paid), 2 year, Career Track term appointment that may be renewed to a maximum of 5 years or converted to career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs.

• Salary is commensurate with 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.

• Work will be primarily performed at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

Learn About Us:

Berkeley Lab (LBNL) addresses the world’s most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe. Founded in 1931, Berkeley Lab’s scientific expertise has been recognized with 13 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

Working at Berkeley Lab has many rewards including a competitive compensation program, excellent health and welfare programs, a retirement program that is second to none, and outstanding development opportunities.  To view information about the many rewards that are offered at Berkeley Lab- Click Here.

Equal Employment Opportunity: Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. Berkeley Lab is in compliance with the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision under 41 CFR 60-1.4.  Click here to view the poster and supplement: "Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law."