SD-25264 POSTDOC IN ACTIVE GRIDS AUTOMATION

The Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) is a Research and Technology Organization (RTO) active in the fields of materials, environment and IT. By transforming scientific knowledge into technologies, smart data and tools, LIST empowers citizens in their choices, public authorities in their decisions and businesses in their strategies.

You will join the Intelligent and Clean Energy Systems (ICES) research unit at the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) and will actively contribute to the WeForming and EnerTEF projects.

WeForming and EnerTEF propose developing automatized and intelligent solution for operating active distributed grids with multiple active asset6s and spatiotemporal scales, i.e., new forms of real-time automation of intelligent active grids including grid-forming converters, using distributed control and artificial intelligence (AI) based operation and analysis. These projects aim to develop a set of cloud-to-edge based tools for enabling intelligent automation of active distribution grids.

Do you want to know more about LIST? Check our website: https://www.list.lu/

You will join a dynamic research team working on the real-time operation of intelligent and active grids, bridging edge devices and cloud-based platforms for advanced automation and control.

You will be mainly in charge of:

• Designing and deploying edge-to-cloud automation solutions for real-time operation of active distribution grids

• Implementing distributed control strategies, including grid-forming converters connected to storage and renewable systems.

• Integrating IoT devices, edge controllers and middleware layers with cloud computing platforms to enable remote orchestration of energy systems.

• Working with RT-HIL environments (e.g. OPAL-RT, Typhoon) to validate cloud-controlled systems interacting with real hardware.

• Developing and testing scalable scheduling and control services for smart grid assets using modern cloud technologies.

• Participating in experimental activities in laboratory and field demonstrators with real-time data exchange and actuation.

• Disseminating results through technical publications and contributions to national and European RDI projects.

Education

• A PhD degree in electrical engineering, automation, computer engineering, or a closely related discipline, with proven expertise in the operation and control of intelligent energy systems.

Experience and skills

• Solid experience designing and deploying automation and control architectures that span from edge devices (e.g. grid-forming converters, IoT controllers) to cloud-based platforms.

• Practical knowledge of distributed control systems and real-time operation of smart and active distribution grids, including power conversion systems for battery storage, PV, and hybrid DERs.

• Hands-on experience with RT-HIL platforms (e.g. OPAL-RT, Typhoon), including closed-loop interaction with real hardware and field devices.

• Skilled in configuring and operating IoT networks with edge controllers, PLCs, PMUs, smart meters, etc.

• Experience developing applications and control schedulers using modern cloud-based platforms (e.g. AWS, GCP, etc), containerized services (Docker, Kubernetes), and middleware brokers (MQTT, OPC-UA, etc.).

• Strong programming skills in Python, C/C++, and experience with data-centric control and monitoring architectures.

• Knowledge on standard communication protocols for smart grid interoperability, such as IEC 61850, IEC 60870-5-104, IEEE C37.118.

• Familiarity withgrid-forming control principles, converter modelling and deployment of real-time distributed responses to improve grid conditions.

• Experience working in interdisciplinary RDI environments and contributing to experimental demonstrators (lab and field).

• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills suited for both technical and collaborative work.

Language skills

• Fluent in English (written and spoken). Knowledge of French, German, or Luxembourgish is considered an asset.

• An organization with a passion for impact and strong RDI partnerships in Luxembourg and Europe that works on responsible and independent research projects

• Sustainable by design, empowering our belief that we play an essential role in paving the way to a green society

• Innovative infrastructures and exceptional labs occupying more than 5,000 square metres, including innovations in all that we do

• An environment encouraging curiosity, innovation and entrepreneurship in all areas

• Personalized learning programme to foster our staff’s soft and technical skills

• Multicultural and international work environment with more than 50 nationalities represented in our workforce

• Diverse and inclusive work environment empowering our people to fulfil their personal and professional ambitions

• Gender-friendly environment with multiple actions to attract, develop and retain women in science

• 32 days’ paid annual leave, 11 public holidays, 13-month salary, statutory health insurance

• Flexible working hours, home working policy and access to lunch vouchers

• Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the ICES RT-HIL simulation laboratory.

• Collaboration opportunities with leading researchers and industry partners

Apply online

Your application must include:

• A motivation letter oriented towards the position and detailing your experience

• A scientific CV with contact details

• List of publications (and patents, (if applicable)

• Contact details of 2 references

Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by email will not be considered.

Application procedure and conditions

• We kindly request applicants to provide their nationality for statistical purposes only, as part of our commitment to promoting diversity and ensuring equal opportunities in our workforce. This information will be kept confidential and will not be used for any discriminatory purposes.

• LIST is dedicated to maintaining an inclusive work environment and is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to attracting, hiring, and retaining a diverse workforce. All applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on national origin, race, colour, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, religion, age, or disability.

• Applications will be continuously reviewed until the position is filled. An assessment committee will thoroughly evaluate applications, adhering to guidelines designed to ensure equal opportunities. The primary criteria for selection will be the alignment of the applicant's existing skills and expertise with the requirements mentioned above.