"Research Associate 1, MS"

Overview

To advance innovative solutions regarding grid enhancing technologies and optimal market deployment of behind-the-meter renewable energy solutions. The research fellow will serve as a dedicated researcher to identify, evaluate, and implement technological upgrades in the transmission system and renewable energy deployment opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

Transmission System Optimization

• Conduct research to define and calculate "Shadow Capacity."
• Perform advanced reconductoring analysis to simulate capacity gains from new conductor technologies.
• Integrate dynamic line rating analysis using historical weather data for capacity optimization.
• Develop an economic framework to compare costs and benefits of grid enhancing technologies versus traditional expansions.

Market Analysis and Renewable Energy Deployment

• Evaluate U.S. electricity markets to identify optimal regions for deploying behind-the-meter renewable energy solutions.
• Analyze market dynamics, state-level incentives, and curtailment events.
• Investigate how distributed generation and storage can mitigate grid congestion and enhance resilience.
• Develop a roadmap for aligning renewable developers with customer and market needs.

Key Deliverables

• White Papers detailing technological landscapes and opportunities.
• An initial dynamic model for assessing the deployment of grid enhancing technologies.
• A final presentation summarizing findings and opportunities.

Engagement and Reporting At Yale

• Collaborate with faculty members Julia Nojeim, Rob Klee, and Ken Gillingham.
• Coordinate and supervise graduate student team projects.
• Facilitate discussions with Yale summer fellows.

Research Outputs

• Regular progress reports to be submitted quarterly.
• Comprehensive final report and presentation summarizing research findings and recommendations.

Required Skills and Abilities

1. Scientific and Technical Proficiency: Background in molecular biology, chemistry, genetics, or physical sciences with experience in techniques such as PCR, sequencing, microscopy, and cell culture.
2. Interpersonal and Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication skills to interact with internal and external stakeholders, including research staff, study sponsors, and collaborators.
3. Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills with attention to detail, ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, and prioritizing tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment.
4. Independent Research: Demonstrated ability to perform independent research, analyze and interpret experimental data, and contribute to scientific reports and publications.
5. Team Collaboration: Ability to work well as part of a team, provide instruction and guidance, and contribute to the overall objectives of the research projects.

Preferred Skills and Abilities

1. Advanced Education: Advance Degree in a related field (e.g. Electrical Engineering, Energy System, or Environmental Management)
2. Experience in grid technology research and implementation.
3. Strong analytical and economic evaluation skills.
4. Proven ability to work collaboratively with academic and industry partners.

Principal Responsibilities

1. Recommends the design and implementation of procedures and protocols under the direction of a higher-level authority.
2. Investigates, analyzes, and reaches preliminary scientific conclusions related to research planning
3. Ensures data results are compiled, analyzed, and presented properly.
4. Analyzes, develops and interprets scientific results. Maintains clear documentation of results. Prepares scientific reports and papers for research proposals and published reports.
5. Performs independent research and laboratory techniques and participates in experimental research planning.
6. Interacts with internal contacts including the PI, research assistants, graduate students, Radiation Safety and Biological Safety officers, and Animal Care personnel to discuss and evaluate research results and to ensure the smooth and safe operation of the laboratory.
7. Interacts with external contacts such as researchers at other institutions, staff at biotechnology and reagents companies to consult on research methods and to keep abreast of product information and developments.
8. May perform other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience

Master’s Degree in a scientific discipline and one year experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.