Sr. Research Scientist

Details•Troy, NY

3d•$80,000 - $138,000

About The Position

The Sr. Research Scientist works as a member of the Center leadership team to lead and perform complex or leading edge research, and will be responsible for the Power Electronics Applications Laboratory (PEAL) and the Center’s research collaboration with the power electronics industry by leveraging the capabilities of PEAL. The Scientist is responsible for overseeing the operation of PEAL, including lab safety and supervision of lab users. Additionally, the Scientist will work with Center leadership to develop research collaborations with the power electronics industry. The position involves working directly with industrial partners to assist them with the development and implementation of testing and characterization of different aspects of power electronics, including wide bandgap power semiconductors, power converter static and dynamic behavior, component characterization, and the development of simulation models and analytical tools. Founded in 1824, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) is the first technological research university in the United States. We bring creativity, science, and technology together to address society's greatest challenges. We cultivate exceptional problem-solvers by immersing them in a culture of rigorous inquiry, disciplined practice, and hands-on application. Our strategic plan, RPI Forward, charts a pioneering course for the next era of RPI. Explore the RPI Forward plan. ↗︎ Nestled on a beautiful 275-acre campus in upstate NY, RPI is home to five schools, 32 research centers, three makerspaces, an observatory, one of the world’s fastest supercomputers, and the IBM Quantum System One - the first university-based quantum computer in the world. With top notch employee health and retirement benefits, Rensselaer offers its full-time employees a generous paid time off program, tuition remission, and opportunities for career growth.

Requirements

Doctorate (Ph.D., J.D., Ed.D., or equivalent) in Electrical Engineering or a related field
Five (5) or more years of experience in power electronics, preferably in industry, including:
Developing and executing R&D projects with industry partners.
Demonstrated expertise and practical experience in one or more of the following areas:
Power electronics hardware across a broad range of power and switching frequencies
Wide bandgap power devices and emerging applications
Hands-on experience with power electronics characterization methods, procedures, and tools
Programming for basic analysis in Python, MATLAB, or equivalent tools, along with project management and reporting
Laboratory safety procedures
Ability to apply mastery and broad understanding in areas of expertise to practical scientific or technical projects
Excellent analytical, technical, reasoning and innovative problem solving skills
Ability to respond quickly and effectively to changing situations
Ability to balance conflicting priorities
Ability to interact and communicate effectively and courteously with internal and external constituents
Knowledge of appropriate field specific systems, equipment and techniques of collecting & recording data
Ability to analyze and interpret technical data
Ability to communicate technical data in a clear, concise manner
Knowledge of and ability to pay strict attention to research protocol
Ability to remain calm and composed when dealing with difficult situations or people

Responsibilities

Lead research team in the formulation of research direction, conception of research ideas and execution of research projects in areas of expertise, emphasizing collaboration with industry.
Identify and pursue opportunities for new research proposals in areas of expertise.
Develop research proposals independently or in cooperation with other Center researchers.
Direct the daily operation of CFES Power Electronics Applications Laboratory (PEAL) in compliance with accepted laboratory standards, safety regulations, and other applicable requirements.
Supervise, educate, train and manage users including students, researchers, faculty and industry personnel on proper use of PEAL.
Authorize use of equipment and coordinate access by users.
Maintain and support PEAL spaces and equipment, make recommendations on improvement and upgrade as appropriate.
Lead and execute Center research collaboration with the power electronics industry by leveraging PEAL capabilities.
Provide technical support and consultation to Center industry partners in areas of expertise, including wide bandgap power electronics, test methods and procedures, and different applications.
Identify and pursue opportunities for new research projects emphasizing collaboration with industry.
Develop research proposals independently or in cooperation with other Center researchers.
Contribute to technical publications as well as presentations and communications to existing and potential new partners and research sponsors.
Perform other duties as assigned.