University: University of New South Wales
Country: Australia
Deadline: Not specified
Fields: Electrical Engineering, Power Electronics, Power Systems, Renewable Energy Engineering, Control Systems Engineering
Are you passionate about advancing the integration of distributed energy resources (DER) in modern power grids and eager to contribute to the future of sustainable energy systems through cutting‐edge research? Australia is at the forefront of renewable energy innovation, and the University of New South Wales (UNSW) is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Control of DER in Weak Grids. This position offers a unique opportunity to join a world‐class research team and develop your expertise in power electronics and power engineering, making a tangible impact on the transition to cleaner energy systems.
About the University or Research Institute
The University of New South Wales (UNSW), located in Sydney, Australia, is recognized as one of the world's leading research‐intensive universities. UNSW consistently ranks among the top universities globally, renowned for its commitment to innovation, academic excellence, and industry collaboration. The university boasts a vibrant, multicultural campus and a supportive academic environment that encourages interdisciplinary research and real‐world impact. UNSW's Faculty of Engineering is particularly acclaimed for its pioneering work in electrical engineering, renewable energy, and power systems, making it an ideal destination for ambitious researchers seeking to advance their careers in these fields.
Research Topic and Significance
This postdoctoral position is centered on the control and integration of distributed energy resources (DER) in weak power grids, a critical challenge as global energy systems rapidly transition toward renewables. The project, funded by the Australian Research Council (ARC), specifically addresses the modeling, control, and interaction of power‐electronics‐dominated power systems. As more solar PV, energy storage, and grid‐forming inverters are connected to the grid, ensuring stability and reliability in weak or disturbed networks becomes increasingly complex. Your research will contribute to developing advanced control strategies and real‐time simulation techniques that enable effective DER integration, supporting the growth of sustainable and resilient energy infrastructures worldwide.
Project Details
The successful candidate will join the Real‐time Simulations Laboratory (RTS@UNSW) under the supervision of Dr. Georgios Konstantinou. The research is part of the ARC project DP250101324, titled \"Making weak power grids work: Models, controls, and interactions.\" You will collaborate closely with leading experts, including Assoc. Prof. Georgios Konstantinou (UNSW), Prof. Saad Mekhilef (Swinburne University), and Prof. Hemashu Pota (UNSW Canberra).
The role involves:
* Developing, implementing, and experimentally validating advanced modeling and control approaches for power‐electronics‐dominated systems.
* Focusing on DER integration, system interactions, and real‐time testing.
* Supervising PhD, Masters, and Honors students involved in the project.
* Conducting experimental testing and validation of DERs such as grid‐forming inverters, solar PV, and energy storage under weak‐grid conditions.
* Using real‐time simulation and hardware‐in‐the‐loop (HiL) platforms for control and modeling.
* Collecting, analysing, and curating experimental and simulation data for publication and open sharing.
* Preparing project updates, technical reports, and contributing to high‐impact journal and conference publications.
Candidate Profile
* PhD in Power Electronics and Power Engineering, preferably with a specialization related to the project.
* Familiarity with real‐time simulation/HiL and hands‐on experimental experience with power electronics, either in the laboratory or industry.
* A strong publication record and experience presenting at conferences.
* Commitment to staying current with developments in the discipline.
* Proven ability to conduct high‐quality, independent academic research.
* Teamwork skills and the ability to collaborate across disciplines.
* Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to interact with diverse stakeholders and mentor students.
* Understanding and commitment to UNSW's values, policies, and health and safety standards.
* Candidates with working rights or a visa for Australia will be given priority.
Application Process
To apply, please e‐mail the following documents to with the subject \"PRF In Control Of DER In Weak Grids\":
* CV: A comprehensive academic CV detailing your educational background, research experience, publications, awards, and relevant work experience.
* Cover Letter: A one‐page cover letter outlining your experience relevant to the project topic, with emphasis on experimental work, power electronics expertise, and prior research contributions.
Please note that applications will formally open through the UNSW system in early March. Candidates who do not email their details before applying to the UNSW system may not be considered, and a link will be shared on the official project page when available.
Please Note
* Applications will formally open through the UNSW system in early March.
* Candidates who do not email their details before applying to the UNSW system may not be considered.
* A link will be shared on the official project page when available.
* For more information and updates, please refer to the official project page: https://www.konstantinou.phd/join-the-team
Conclusion
This is an exceptional opportunity for talented researchers in power electronics and power engineering to contribute to transformative energy research in one of Australia's premier universities. If you are driven to solve real‐world challenges and advance your academic career in a supportive, innovative environment, we strongly encourage you to apply. Stay tuned for more positions like this by following our updates and exploring other opportunities in the field.
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