Open Positions

Ph.D. Researcher in Power Systems Optimization

Our group is looking for a PhD researcher in the field of power systems optimization. The successful candidate will work on state-of-the-art projects in the area of optimal distribution system operation. Specifically, the position will look at time-coupled stochastic redispatch and dynamic pricing in order to induce demand response actions. The position is part of the McMaster Advanced Control Consortium.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in electrical engineering, chemical or process engineering, computer science, applied mathematics or a related field
  • Strong background in optimization (stochastic programming), algorithms (graph theory), and numerical methods
  • Proficiency in Python including firm grasp of object-oriented programming
  • Familiarity with power systems modelling, analysis, and simulation tools (e.g., OpenDSS)
  • Knowledge of electricity markets is an asset
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Self-motivated enough to pursue a doctoral degree
  • Ability to work both independently and in a team

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct research on advanced optimization algorithms and techniques for power systems operation and analysis
  • Implement and validate algorithms using simulation tools and real-world data from power systems
  • Collaborate with industrial partners through the McMaster Advanced Control Consortium or other venues
  • Publish research findings in reputable journals and present at conferences and workshops
  • Participate in an active graduate student community at McMaster and in the department of Chemical Engineering

Funding:

This full-time doctoral position is funded so that students can devote their time and energy to the successful completion of their studies. Annual support of around $34,000 CAD is provided for all students.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit the following documents:

  • CV highlighting academic qualifications, past research experience, and relevant skills
  • Letter of intent outlining research interests and motivation for pursuing a PhD in the area of Power Systems
  • Transcripts of undergraduate and graduate coursework (unofficial transcripts are acceptable for initial interview)
  • Contact information for two academic or professional references

Please submit you application materials electronically to [email protected] with the email subject “Power Systems Research Position”. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Our research group is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities.

Ph.D. Researcher in Machine Learning for Alarm Management

Our group is looking for a PhD researcher in the field of root cause analysis using machine leaning on alarm data. Specifically, the position will look at alarm prediction for early root-cause detection. The position is part of the McMaster Advanced Control Consortium.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in chemical or process engineering, computer science, applied mathematics or a related field
  • Strong background in data analysis and machine learning
  • Proficiency in Python
  • Familiarity with dynamic modelling and simulation is an asset
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Self-motivated enough to pursue a doctoral degree
  • Ability to work both independently and in a team

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct research on root cause analysis using alarm data
  • Collaborate with industrial partners through the McMaster Advanced Control Consortium or other venues
  • Publish research findings in reputable journals and present at conferences and workshops
  • Participate in an active graduate student community at McMaster and in the department of Chemical Engineering

Funding:

This full-time doctoral position is funded so that students can devote their time and energy to the successful completion of their studies. Annual support of around $34,000 CAD is provided for all students.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit the following documents:

  • CV highlighting academic qualifications, past research experience, and relevant skills
  • Letter of intent outlining research interests and motivation for pursuing a PhD in the area of alarm management
  • Transcripts of undergraduate and graduate coursework (unofficial transcripts are acceptable for initial interview)
  • Contact information for two academic or professional references

Please submit you application materials electronically to [email protected] with the email subject “Alarm Management Research Position”. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Our research group is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities.

Ph.D. Researcher in Process Design and Eco-Technoeconomic Analysis

Our group is looking for a PhD researcher in the field of Process Design and Eco-Technoeconomic Analysis. Specifically, the position will look at the design and scale-up of an aluminum-water hydrogen plant and evaluation of the proposed designs economic and environmental performances. The position will be co-supervised with Dr. Keena Trowell. The position is also part of the McMaster Advanced Control Consortium.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in chemical, mechanical or process engineering, computer, or a related field
  • Strong background in process design and simulation
  • Proficiency in Aspen Plus or similar steady-state simulators
  • Knowledge of economic analysis and life cycle analysis is an asset
  • Familiarity with dynamic modelling is an asset
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Self-motivated enough to pursue a doctoral degree
  • Ability to work both independently and in a team

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct research on design and evaluation of a metal-based hydrogen production plant
  • Collaborate with industrial partners through the McMaster Advanced Control Consortium or other venues
  • Publish research findings in reputable journals and present at conferences and workshops
  • Participate in an active graduate student community at McMaster and in the department of Chemical Engineering

Funding:

This full-time doctoral position is funded so that students can devote their time and energy to the successful completion of their studies. Annual support of around $34,000 CAD is provided for all students.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit the following documents:

  • CV highlighting academic qualifications, past research experience, and relevant skills
  • Letter of intent outlining research interests and motivation for pursuing a PhD in the area of process design
  • Transcripts of undergraduate and graduate coursework (unofficial transcripts are acceptable for initial interview)
  • Contact information for two academic or professional references

Please submit you application materials electronically to [email protected] with the email subject “Process Design Position”. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Our research group is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities.

Other Graduate Positions in the McMaster Advanced Control Consortium

Generally interested in McMaster and in the area of process systems engineering but there isn’t a fitting project in our group?

Please check out the other professors in the McMaster Advanced Control Consortium who do similar research and may have open positions!