Post Doctoral Scholar - Floating Solar

FSEC is seeking a Postdoctoral researcher to participate in an Industry Innovation Program (IIP) in collaboration with Duke Energy to investigate the impact of performance improvement techniques on the efficiency of floating solar systems and thereby integrate more power into the grid. This project performs efficiency improvement modeling and simulation studies, and techno-economic calculations. Besides this, small-scale testing and, possibly, floating solar field experiments will be performed.

As part of the techno-economic studies, the impact of an efficiency improvement technique on the overall project gains, and economics, will be calculated. To develop mathematical models and perform simulation studies, floating PV systems information and details will be extracted from the site engineering drawings.

As part of the small-scale testing, field conditions (soiling on the panels, faults, etc,) will be replicated using appropriate materials and methods. The high-frequency time-series data will be collected using the data loggers.

The candidate will work closely with FSEC's industry partner Duke Energy and other researchers in the area.

Minimum Qualifications:

Ph.D. in an engineering discipline from an accredited institution and experience in performing solar PV simulation studies and hands-on experience in performing experimental tests (carrying the PV modules, performing 1000 V DC measurements, I-V curve tracing, system troubleshooting, etc).

Preferred Qualifications:

Knowledge of Solar PV modules, and systems, data analytical skills, writing journal articles and reports, software simulation tools (Python, MATLAB, NREL-SAM, PVsyst), and hands-on experience.

Additional Application Materials Required:

1) cover letter
2) current curriculum vita
3) copies of all academic transcripts
4) research statement (how your research work aligns with the position requirements).

Special Instructions to the Applicants:

When prompted during the on-line application process, please provide names, phone numbers and email addresses of three professional references. Only complete application materials will be considered. Active review of applications will begin on December 10, 2024, but the search will continue until the position is filled.

For questions regarding the position, please contact Dr. Manjunath Matam, Assistant Professor, University of Central Florida, Florida Solar Energy Center at (321) 638- 1428 or by email, manjunath.matam@ucf.edu

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Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The University of Central Florida is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer including Disabled/Vets. Click on UCF's Equal Opportunity Statement to view the President's Statement.

The UCF affirmative action plans for qualified individuals with disabilities and protected Veterans are available for inspection in the Office of Institutional Equity, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., upon request.

As a Florida public university, UCF makes all application materials and selection procedures available to the public upon request.

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