The opportunity:
The Institute for Integrated Energy Systems (IESVic) is seeking an energy system modeler with expertise in gas systems, capacity planning and operational dispatch. The Gas System Analyst (GSA) will use their knowledge and skills to support energy system decarbonization research specific to British Columbia and Canada. The GSA will work with a research team to examine deep-decarbonization scenarios where electrification strategies are coupled with hydrogen production, transmission, and storage.
Where you will work:
The Institute for Integrated Energy Systems is a multidisciplinary research centre at the University of Victoria. IESVic is a collegial group of faculty, students, and staff working in a beautiful natural environment. For nearly three decades, the mission of the Institute has been to chart feasible pathways to sustainable energy systems. Our role is to create new insights, improve technology and systems, and train the next generation of change-makers. Our vision is to be a leader in the development of sustainable and high-quality energy systems.
What you will do:
As part of a larger team working on energy system planning for decarbonization, the Gas System Analyst will be responsible for developing network models representing current and future gas infrastructure in British Columbia, Canada. Preferably, models will be open-source and flexible so as to use and support open-access paradigms and be interoperable with electricity system models. The GSA will model gas networks with hydrogen and methane mixtures so as to analyse decarbonization transition scenarios, centralized and decentralized hydrogen production, storage, and hydrogen injection into the pipeline network. Important metrics are cost, value, risk and robustness. The GSA will develop models that balance technology, spatial and temporal detail such that key physical characteristics are captured while considering the need for transparency and policy relevance. The Gas System Analyst will work with a research team consisting of faculty, graduate students, industry participants, and other external stakeholders to ensure research tasks and objectives are achieved.
What is required:
- PhD related to energy systems.
- Demonstrated expertise in energy system modeling and optimization.
- Knowledge and experience using Python and Pyomo.
- Excellent communication, writing, and presentation skills.
- Ability to work as an independent researcher with a high level of scientific judgment and initiative.
- Strong organizational skills and time management.
- Outstanding interpersonal skills with a willingness to mentor others.
- Evidence of the desire, willingness, and ability to collaborate broadly.
What is desired:
- Demonstrated ability to develop open-source modeling tools.
- Understanding of hydrogen production processes and gas systems.
- An understanding of capacity planning, dispatch, adequacy and reliability.
- Familiarity with optimisation.
Additional information:
- This is a full time, one year, appointment with the potential for renewal. Renewals are based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.
- Salary depends on experience and qualifications (55-60 K$). Additional compensation includes health benefits and vacation.
- Work will be primarily performed at Engineering Office Wing, EOW 106, University of Victoria, BC, Canada.
- Working at IESVic has many rewards including a beautiful environment, outstanding outdoor recreation, clean, safe and vibrant community, and a collegial team.
- The position will remain open until filled.
How to apply:
Please submit your cover letter and CV to iesvic.director@uvic.ca.
IESVic encourages applications from all underrepresented groups considering research careers without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or age.