Principal Research Scientist AI and ML for the Electrical Grid

Principal Research Scientist AI and ML for the Electrical Grid

Position posted 2 days ago. Be among the first 25 applicants.

Overview

At PNNL, our core capabilities are divided among major departments referred to as Directorates within the Lab, each focusing on a specific area of scientific research. The Energy and Environment Directorate (EED) delivers science and technology solutions for the nations biggest energy challenges, including modernizing our power grid, advancing renewable energy, and addressing complex nuclear and environmental issues. The Electricity Infrastructure and Buildings Division of EED accelerates the transition to an efficient, resilient energy system through basic and applied research, leveraging power and energy systems expertise and advanced data analytics.

Responsibilities

We are seeking a forwardthinking Principal Research Scientist who is a thought leader in applying Artificial Intelligence (AI), including large language models (LLMs) and agentic programming, to grid operations, planning, and resilience challenges.

• Lead pioneering research efforts to apply AI, including generative AI and agent-based approaches, to improve the operation, automation, resilience, and security of the electrical grid.
• Operationalize AI research and development for national and economic security, especially for defensecritical electric infrastructure.
• Develop and drive innovative concepts for realworld applications of ML in energy forecasting, grid disturbance detection, anomaly detection, and humanintheloop decisionmaking for grid operators.
• Serve as the principal investigator on complex, multidisciplinary research projects funded by DOE, ARPAE, utilities, and other stakeholders, defining project vision and overseeing execution.
• Collaborate across the organization, providing domain expertise to AI/ML experts in other areas.
• Mentor and coach junior, midcareer, and senior scientists in the AI and grid research space.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including universities, grid operators, utilities, ISO/RTOs, national labs, and solution providers, to identify emerging needs and develop solutions that scale to the real world.
• Lead PNNLs research agenda on AI for the grid by contributing to strategic planning and securing funding opportunities.
• Publish highimpact peerreviewed papers, present research findings at conferences, and represent PNNL as a leader in the AIforenergy community.

Location: Richland, WA or Seattle, WA (onsite presence required).

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• BS/BA with 9+ years of relevant work experience, or MS/MA with 7+ years, or PhD with 5+ years.

Preferred Qualifications

• Deep understanding and experience applying machine learning and agentic approaches to the grid domain.
• Expertise in energy systems, power systems, or grid operations.
• Proven track record of leading largescale, interdisciplinary research teams and securing competitive research funding.
• Knowledge of U.S. energy infrastructure, regulatory landscape, and AI/ML in grid modernization.
• Experience integrating AI models, including agentic approaches, into planning or realtime operations for electric utilities or ISOs/RTOs.
• Demonstrated leadership in emerging AI applications, especially explainable AI, ethical AI, and AI for critical infrastructure.
• Strong communication and technical writing skills for diverse audiences.
• Established professional network within AI, ML, DOE, or energy industry communities.
• Must be able to acquire and maintain a national security clearance, Q/SCI.

Hazardous Working Conditions

Not applicable.

Additional Information

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance. A clearance background investigation will assess employment, education, financial, and criminal history, as well as foreign connections, drug use, and overall conduct.

Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship.
• Background Investigation: Applicants will undergo a federal investigation to meet eligibility for classified access per 10 CFR 710, Appendix B.
• Drug Testing: Preemployment and random postemployment testing; applicants must demonstrate nonuse of illegal drugs, including marijuana, for 12 consecutive months prior to given questionnaire.

Testing Designated Position

This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) subject to preemployment and random drug testing for illegal drugs, including marijuana, consistent with controlled substances regulations.

Commitment to Excellence and Equal Employment Opportunity

PNNL is an equal opportunity employer, committed to a fair and inclusive workplace for all applicants, providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans. Please contact careers@pnnl.gov for assistance.

Benefits

PNNL offers health insurance, dental, vision, telehealth, mental health benefits, wellness coaching, health savings account, disability insurance, employee assistance program, travel insurance, tuition assistance, relocation, childcare support, and more.

Pay Range

USD $169,600 $268,100 per year.

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