Funded MASc Position in Data-driven Control of Energy Systems

Our society is underpinned by the energy grid which must undergo unprecedented change over the coming decades if we are to meet net-zero emissions targets. This project seeks to develop data-driven optimization and control methodologies that can coordinate large numbers of independent entities within our energy system (e.g., smart homes/buildings, power producers, electric cars, storage operators etc.) to operate the grid safely and efficiently.

These projects have theoretical, computational, and applied aspects, they can be investigated in different ratios according to the interests of the researcher.

About the Labs

This is a joint position between the research groups of Dr. Alberto Padoan and Dr. Dominic Liao-McPherson.

We are hosted within the Departments of Mechanical and Electrical & Computer Engineering on UBCs Point Grey campus on the unceded lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) people, surrounded by forest, ocean and mountains. Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the most diverse cities in Canada, and one of the most livable cities in the world. UBC offers a friendly and stimulating environment and the opportunity to become an expert in control, optimization, and computing while solving meaningful engineering problems.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in engineering (or a related field)
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• An introductory undergraduate control course
• Coursework/project experience in optimization, power systems, and numerical computing is helpful but not required.
• No other specific qualifications beyond and a willingness to learn.

If you have any questions

If you’re interested in pursuing graduate school in beautiful Vancouver and any of this seems interesting to you, please don't hesitate to reach out.

• Dominic Liao-McPherson | dliaomcp {at} mech.ubc.ca | https://mech.ubc.ca/dominic-liao-mcpherson/
• Alberto Padoan                | apadoan {at} ethz.ch           | https://www.albertopadoan.com

How to apply

• Submit the following by email to dliaomcp {at} mech.ubc.ca and apadoan {at} ethz.ch               
  1. A resume/CV;
  2. A cover letter/statement of intent (including relevant experience, and your research interests);
  3. Unofficial transcripts;
• Please submit all documents as a single .pdf file and use the following format for the email subject line: [UBC application]: LastName, FirstName
• Those shortlisted for further consideration will be contacted for an online interview and given instructions about submitting a formal application.
• This position can be hosted in either Mechanical or Electrical Engineering
• Due to the volume of emails received only those shortlisted will be contacted; I apologize in advance.
• We encourage applications from members of groups that have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples, Indigenous peoples of North America, Black-identified persons, other racialized persons, persons with disabilities, and those who identify as women and/or 2SLGBTQ+.

Key Dates

• November 10th 2024  | First review date for applications
• January 15th 2025      | Last review date for applications (no applications will be considered after this date)

Salary Ranges

• A minimum yearly stipend of $35,000 for PhD students and $30,000 for MASc students.
• Award holders (e.g., CGS-M, UBC internal fellowship) will receive a top up.
• Income from TA positions stacks on top