SOEST Postdoctoral Researcher (Grid System Technology)

The University of Hawaii System Office seeks a full-time SOEST Postdoctoral Researcher specializing in grid system technology. The role involves researching advanced grid architectures, smart grids, and renewable energy integration to improve power system resilience. Responsibilities include conducting analyses, preparing scientific publications, and developing innovative technologies. A PhD in a relevant field and experience in renewable energy engineering are required. The position is based in Honolulu, Hawaii.
About the position

Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST) Hawai‘i Natural Energy Institute, located in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws. The position involves research on advanced grid architectures, smart grids, microgrids, and renewable energy integration to enhance power system resilience and optimization. Responsibilities include researching and coordinating complex assignments on smart grid and microgrid technologies, conducting analyses on power system operation, preparing manuscripts for scientific publications, and developing innovative technologies to support high renewable energy penetration.

Responsibilities
• Participates in research on advanced grid architectures, smart grids, microgrids, and renewable energy integration.
,
• Researches and coordinates complex or novel assignments and projects on smart grid, microgrid, renewable energy grid integration, and power systems operation.
,
• Advances power system design and operation with renewable energy penetration by developing innovative smart grid and microgrid architectures.
,
• Conducts analyses on power system operation, including voltage management, frequency control, power flow, and reliability studies.
,
• Prepares manuscripts for scientific publications, data reports, presentations, and other formal summaries based on research results.
,
• Develops and demonstrates innovative technologies, control methods, and software/hardware solutions to support high renewable energy penetration.
,
• Performs techno-economic assessments to inform energy policies, regulatory advancements, and the modernization of power systems.
,
• Participates in laboratory safety assessments and implements laboratory safety protocols.
,
• Assists in overseeing junior employees, as needed.

Requirements
• PhD from an accredited college or university in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
,
• 1-3 years of experience in renewable energy engineering and grid integration, distributed energy resource applications, or power systems analysis.
,
• Strong knowledge of control theory as it applies to microgrid systems or power system components.
,
• Proficiency in software tools for statistical analysis, simulation automation, and data visualization.
,
• Demonstrated ability to interpret and present technical information clearly and accurately.
,
• Ability to use and maintain laboratory equipment and instrumentation relevant to test and evaluate power system components.
,
• Proficient computer and programming skills, including competence in Python, MATLAB, or similar packages.

Nice-to-haves
• Strong publication record and other documented records of achievement.

Benefits
• Health insurance
,
• Retirement plan
,
• Paid time off
,
• Professional development opportunities