Research Engineer

Overview

Te Whare Wananga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury

Located in Otautahi | Christchurch, Aotearoa | New Zealand

Full-time 37.5 hours per week (1.0 FTE)

Fixed term to 26 July 2027

Au Mahi | What You Will Do

We are seeking two highly motivated Research Engineers (equivalent to Postdoctoral level) to develop a next-generation transient simulation tool for large-scale hybrid AC / DC power systems.

This work is part of the Future Architecture of Network (FAN) project, focusing on creating low-carbon and resilient power grids.

Developing and implementing hybrid transient simulation tools for large-scale AC / DC power systems.

Designing and testing EMT and DPEMT solvers, ensuring seamless interfacing between subsystems.

Optimizing simulation performance through parallel processing techniques.

Integrating power-flow results for initializing power system components and controllers.

Conducting validation studies by comparing simulation results with commercial EMT-like tools or benchmark data.

Publishing research findings in high-impact journals and conferences.

Mou | Who You Are

You will have excellent analytical skills in numerical analysis and applied mathematics with an ability to implement algorithms, and hold a PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computational Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.

You will also have :

Strong understanding of power system transient simulation concepts.

Advanced mathematical knowledge in linear algebra and calculus.

Expertise in numerical methods for solving large-scale power system equations.

Programming proficiency in C, C++, or Fortran (Python or MATLAB is a plus).

Experience with parallel computing techniques and subsystem-based simulation approaches.

Familiarity with power electronics modelling, including switching average and dynamic average models.

Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.

Excellent communication and scientific writing skills.

Mahi Ngatahi | Who You Will Work With

You will work with a dynamic team at the Electric Power Engineering Centre (EPECentre), reporting to the EPECentre Director.

You will also supervise research students and collaborate with various stakeholders relevant to the project.

Nga Painga o UC | Why UC

Nga Uara | Our Values of manaakitanga, whanaungatanga and tiakitanga guide our decisions and behaviour and provide a roadmap for how we do things at UC, affirming our commitment to pastoral care and support for our akonga and staff.

They challenge and inspire us to be the best we can, and make UC a great place to work and study.

We offer a range of fantastic benefits including flexible work practices, study opportunities and generous superannuation and leave provisions.

For more information, please visit us : UC Benefits

This role is on an Individual Employment agreement with an indicative salary range of between $62,864 and $94,248, and salary will be based on skills and experience.

The closing date for this position is : 2October 2025 (midnight, NZ time)

Applications will be reviewed after the close date.

Pehea te tono mai | How You Apply

Applications for this position must be submitted via our careers website and should include a cover letter and resume.

Please note, we do not accept applications by email, however we are happy to answer your queries in relation to the application process, please forward these to

For overseas applicants, please visit Immigration New Zealand website to review the latest health and visa requirements for visiting and working in New Zealand.

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