Researcher In Real-Time Hardware-In-The Loop Simulation Of Smart Grids

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.

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

Discover our Environmental Research and Innovation department: ERIN Department

The department relies on two cutting-edge platforms, the Biotechnologies and Environmental Analytics Platform and the Observatory for the Climate and the Environment, and the GreenTech Innovation Centre (GTIC): a one-stop-shop for the complete development of bio-based products and processes.

You will join the Intelligent and Clean Energy Systems (ICES) research unit and will in particular be involved in the real-time hardware-in-the-loop laboratory (RT-HIL Lab) laboratory. The ICES research unit aims to develop ground-breaking market-oriented solutions in how energy is generated, distributed and consumed, meeting the challenge of cutting greenhouse gas emissions, ensuring energy security, planning feasible business models and social outreach advances. You will report to the ICES Head of Unit.

Essential to the ICES unit is the smart grid vision, namely, an electricity network in which information flows freely between consumers and suppliers, and demand adapts in real-time in response to the continuously changing supply from intermittent renewable sources. The ICES unit however extends this vision toward a wider energy portfolio, integrating other energy infrastructures to electricity networks, and providing further abstraction and intelligence levels in the conception of solutions for both planning and operating the energy systems of the future.

Moreover, in addition to generating solutions addressing society and market needs, this research unit conducts fundamental research aiming at ground-breaking disclosers to remove barriers and introduce revolutionary concepts for planning, developing and operating the Intelligent Clean Energy Systems of the future.

How will you contribute?

As a researcher you will participate in smart grid automation projects with intensive use of real-time simulation with hardware-in-the-loop (RT-HIL) and networked digital devices, which might include designing control solutions for REN, BESS, EV charging, and FACTS among others, making and intensive use of communications. You will interact with other research and technology experts, deploying systems and technologies related to projects both in the field and in the lab.

In addition to mastering RT-HIL systems (OPAL-RT, RTDS, Speed Goat, Typhoon), you should have solid experience in configuring and programming controllers and measurement systems for electrical networks, including networked PLCs and computers, RTUs, PMUs, smart-meters, relays, etc., and working with standard communication protocols (IEC 61850, IEC 60870, IEEE C37.118,…) used in grid automation. PhD degree with 1-2 years hands-on postdoc experience in grid automation (smart grids, microgrids, distributed generation, etc.) is required. You should have good knowledge of programming languages used in monitoring (SCADA) and control systems, such as C, .Net, Python, and Java. Experience on constructing and operating renewable energy systems interfaced to the grid through power converters will be highly appreciated.

You will contribute to RDI projects by:

• Modelling smart grids and distributed assets in RT-HIL platforms, particularly using OPAL-RT with HYPERSYM, although knowledge on eMEGASIM, ePHASORSIM and eFPGASIM are also welcome.
• Developing operation and control solutions for active grids based on distributed generation and control.
• Conducting dynamic and static analyses of power systems with distributed asset, using tools such a DIgSILENT and PSS/E.
• Programming controllers and applications in dedicated computational systems (real-time systems, networked PLCs, rapid prototyping systems,…).
• Validating developments in a RT-HIL, integrating networked controllers and real power converters through power amplifiers.
• Disseminating results through publications, conferences and social media.
• Contribute to the creation of intellectual property rights (patents, licences, etc.).
• Participating in project proposals preparation

Moreover, you will contribute to the dissemination, valorisation and transfer of RDI results through:

• Software licensing.
• Participation in the drafting of technical reports, scientific articles, patents and inventions.
• Participation in the implementation of technological solutions (proof-of-concepts, prototypes).

Is Your profile described below? Are you our future colleague? Apply now!

Education

• PhD degree in electrical engineering, industrial engineering, automation engineering, or related fields with the required expertise in control and automation of electrical grid.

Experience and skills

• At least 1-2 years of hands-on postdoc experience in grid automation including smart grids, microgrids, distributed generations, etc.
• Proficiency in RT-HIL simulation and control of smart grids and renewable energy systems, preferably using OPAL-RT with HYPERSIM, interacting with distributed controllers.
• Skilled in modelling and controlling smart grids, encompassing electrical networks, renewable energy systems, microgrids, power plants, and controllers.
• Strong knowledge of programming languages such as C#, Python, and .Net.
• Familiarity with standard communication technologies and protocols, including IEC61850, IEC61870 101-104, DNP3, ICCP, IEEE C37.118, etc.
• Experience with networked devices like PLCs, computers, RTUs, PMUs, smart-meters, and protection relays.
• Expertise in power systems tools for dynamic analysis, preferably with DIgSILENT and PSS/E.
• Hands-on experience with controllers for grid-connected power converters will be highly valued.
• Accustomed to working in laboratory environments and developing prototypes.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills (oral, written, presentation) adaptable to technical, management/executive, and business audiences.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an international team within the ICES RDI unit.

Language skills

• Fluent in English (written and oral). Knowledge in at least one of the official languages of Luxembourg (French, German or Luxembourgish) is an asset.

Your LIST benefits

• 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

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

Application procedure and conditions

• LIST is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to hiring and retaining diverse personnel. We value all applicants and will consider all competent candidates for employment without regard to national origin, race, colour, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, religion, age or disability
• Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled
• An assessment committee will review the applications and select candidates based on guidelines that aim to ensure equal opportunities
• The main criteria for selection will be the correspondence of the existing skills and expertise of the applicant with the requirements mentioned above