Research Associate in Computer Science

Research Associate (postdoctoral) position in the Department of Computer Science under the supervision of Professor Ferdinando Fioretto.

About the role

As a key member of the research team, the postdoctoral researcher will develop novel physics-constrained generative AI methods (diffusion models and flow matching) for real-time transmission-grid topology control. The researcher will design topology-agnostic diffusion models that generate diverse switching configurations from post-contingency grid states while satisfying network connectivity, N-1 security, and thermal limits. The position offers an exceptional collaborative network spanning academia, industry, and national laboratories.

Responsibilities

• Develop physics-constrained generative AI methods for transmission-grid topology control.
• Design topology-agnostic diffusion models generating switching configurations from post-contingency grid states.
• Ensure generated configurations satisfy network connectivity, N-1 security, and thermal limits.
• Lead technical deliverables and manuscripts targeting top-tier machine-learning conferences and leading power-systems journals.
• Enhance skills in teaching, mentoring, and proposal development.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in computer science, electrical engineering, operations research, or a related field by the start date.
• Strong machine-learning research record with rigorous mathematical and experimental skills.
• Ability to deliver high-quality results on short timelines.
• Proficiency with frameworks such as PyTorch.

Qualifications

Preferred expertise in one or more of the following:

• Generative or diffusion models.
• Optimal power flow and power systems.
• Graph neural networks.
• Constrained or physics-informed machine learning.

Prior power-systems experience is highly beneficial.

Schedule

This is a one-year appointment beginning by September 1, 2026, or earlier. The appointment may be renewed for an additional year contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.

Benefits

For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits.