Postdoc Position in the field of 'Forced oscillations and their impact on interarea modes in large interconnected power systems'

The Department of Electrical Engineering (ESAT) at KU Leuven offers a postdoc position in the field of Forced oscillations and their impact on interarea modes in large interconnected power systems.
Within the Electrical Energy & Computer Architectures (Electa) division and EnergyVille, the research team led by prof. Jef Beerten focuses on the combined modelling and control of power electronic converters and power systems. The group of PhD students and postdocs consists of about 10 people. Within the team, we have a postdoc position available on modelling and study of the impact of forced oscillations coming from offshore wind plants, and their impact on the interarea modes in large interconnected power systems.

Responsibilities

The further integration of offshore wind in the power system is key to the energy transition. However, in recent years, concerns are rising regarding forced oscillations coming from large offshore wind farms, and the effect that these oscillations can have on existing interarea modes in large-scale power systems. We are searching for an experienced researcher to strengthen our team on dynamic power system modelling for interarea modal analysis and the study of the impact of forced oscillations. The postdoctoral researcher will be involved in a publicly-funded project with involvement from industry. The responsibilities of the postdoctoral researcher will be: 

• Develop new models and methodologies to study the impact of forced oscillations on the interarea modes in large-scale interconnected power systems.
• To contribute to the overall research conducted in the group: directly and through (co-) supervision of junior researchers.
• To publish research outcomes of research in top academic journals and conferences.
• To represent the group in projects and with industry .

Profile

As the ideal candidate:

• You have obtained the PhD degree in electrical engineering with a solid background in power system network modelling, focusing on interarea mode analysis, from a reputable institute.
• You have a strong background in stability analysis of large-scale power systems including model-order reduction.
• You are proficient in coordinated POD/PSS design and determining their optimal location.
• You have experience with non-linear dynamic system analysis and specialized power system software, such as DIgSILENT.
• You have obtained clear scientific contributions during your PhD, e.g. shown through publications in relevant top academic journals.
• You are motivated to work in a dynamic team in a collaborative spirit, whose activities are centered on power system dynamics, and to train and supervise the work of junior experts in the research team.
• You possess strong critical thinking, problem solving skills and effective collaborative skills (teamwork-oriented).
• You are able to communicate fluently at a high professionally level in English, both orally and in writing.
• You are willing to contribute to grant proposals in the field of your expertise.
• You are willing to occasionally travel in the framework of your projects, when needed.
• Knowledge of the Dutch language is a plus.

Offer

We offer an exciting job in one of the leading research institutes in the field. The study of converter-related challenges in power systems is receiving significant attention from both academia and industry. This postdoctoral project allows you to work on a highly timely research topic: 

• In an inspiring research environment, within an international team of enthusiastic colleagues.
• In an internationally recognized team at the most innovative university in Europe.
• With state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure (http://www.energyville.be).
• Where you can engage in research collaborations and are encouraged to participate at international conferences and be involved in expert groups.
• With projects for industry and in public R&D projects with industry involvement. 

We offer a full-funded postdoc position with multiple benefits (health insurance, access to university infrastructure and sports facilities, etc.).

More information

Electa
EnergyVille HVDC

Interested?

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