Postdoctoral Research Associate in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Postdoctoral Research Associate position available immediately in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Iowa State University.

About the role

The successful candidate will participate in cutting-edge research projects focused on optimization, data analytics, and control of power distribution systems. This position offers the opportunity to collaborate closely with utility company partners and national laboratories, utilizing real-world utility data and models to address practical and impactful challenges in modern power systems. The selected candidate will contribute to the development of innovative solutions that enhance the reliability, efficiency, and resilience of electric power distribution networks.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in optimization, data analytics, and control of power distribution systems.
• Collaborate with utility company partners and national laboratories.
• Develop innovative solutions to enhance the reliability, efficiency, and resilience of electric power distribution networks.

Requirements

• PhD in Electrical Engineering.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated research experience in power distribution systems, optimization, data analytics, or control through doctoral research, postdoctoral research, industry experience, or funded research projects.
• Authorship or co-authorship of at least one peer-reviewed journal article or conference paper in a relevant field.
• Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills through completion of independent research projects, dissertation research, or development of technical solutions in a relevant discipline.
• Evidence of research initiative and creativity, such as first-author publications, leadership of research activities, proposal development, or significant contributions to collaborative research projects.
• Experience presenting technical or research findings to academic, industry, or professional audiences through conference presentations, seminars, workshops, or invited talks.

About the department

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering is part of Iowa State University's College of Engineering, one of the nation's leading engineering colleges. The department is recognized for excellence in research, education, and innovation across areas including electric power and energy systems, communications, cybersecurity, microelectronics, and systems and controls. Faculty and researchers collaborate with industry, government agencies, and national laboratories to develop solutions that address pressing technological and societal challenges.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental.
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans.
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans.
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa).
• Life insurance and long-term disability.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Wellbeing program.
• WorkFlex options for flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work.

Schedule

• Full time.
• 12-month work period.
• Proposed start date: November 1, 2026.