At Mérida Labs, we are recruiting a team of motivated and solution-oriented postdoctoral fellows. Our group focuses on integrated energy systems research that encompasses breakthrough technologies, policy, energy conversion, new business models, techno-economic and life cycle analyses, machine learning, optimization, AI, intelligent networks, among others.
The PDF team will co-lead a project in partnership with TransLink, BC Hydro and the Vancouver Economic Commission to develop strategies for public transit fleet decarbonization. Emissions from public transport vehicles running on fossil fuels contribute to poor air quality in cities and regions, and moving to a zero-carbon transit fleet is integral to TransLink’s corporate climate action commitments. This project aims to develop a digital platform that will generate novel and unique datasets and models to enable decision-making on public transport GHG emission reduction strategies.
The project will leverage the $24M UBC Smart Hydrogen Energy District (SHED), a city-scale testbed that integrates renewable energy and communication technologies. The objective and focus of these positions are to develop a Digital Twin of the SHED, where each physical entity of the testbed will have a virtual counterpart in the DT, to be then expanded at the UBC campus-scale, where real-time data from each physical entity will be mapped to corresponding elements in the DT using APIs.
Work Performed
- Selection of software tools to create digital replicas of the testbed physical assets, to model the processes involved
- Creation of digital modules and inter-module links using simulation/emulation tools
- Optimize digital twin interaction with the physical testbed using software APIs and capabilities to translate log files or data collected from the physical testbed
- Application of ML/AI algorithms to analyze the data collected from the testbed; train algorithms for forecasting/decision making (e.g. optimal energy flows, supply/consumption)
The positions will collectively constitute a team where a high degree of interaction and collaboration is expected toward completion of all project objectives. These roles will have the opportunity to develop this line of research, support and mentor student teams, and identify ways to expand the relationship with our partners and the research goals. In addition to communication, project management, and technical writing skills, suitable candidates should also have solid technical experience in some of the following:
Tools and frameworks
- PyTorch
- TensorFlow
- Numpy
- Pandas
- Scikit‑Learn
- Tableau
- Microsoft Excel
- Linux
- Git
Programming (multiple languages)
- Python
- Matlab
- SQL
- C/C++
- Java
Salary range
- C$ 65,000/year + Benefits
The fellowships will be for a one-year appointment, renewable subject to performance. The positions are available from now until filled. Review of applications will begin immediately. Interested candidates with a PhD in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science or related field completed within the last 3 years are encouraged to apply. Experience in digital twin development a strong asset. Applications must include a cover letter and curriculum vitae, and should be sent to Dr. Paolo Marcazzan (paolo.marcazzan@ubc.ca).
Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person.