Vehicle Power Electronics Research Group Leader

Requisition Id 15099 

Overview:  

We are seeking a Senior Researcher to lead the Vehicle Power Electronics Research Group, focusing on advanced power electronics and power conversion systems for vehicle and other applications. The group drives research from concept to implementation, delivering transformative solutions that impact transportation, from passenger vehicles to commercial fleets, as well as other power electronics applications.

 

The group brings world-class expertise in modeling, analysis, and design of power conversion systems and wireless charging technologies, all in support of the DOE mission. This position is within the Buildings and Transportation Science Division (BTSD), home to the National Transportation Research Center and the Building Technology Research and Integration Center, both DOE-designated user facilities.

 

Purpose:

Provide Research and Development (R&D) leadership to the group, advancing science and technology in alignment with ORNL’s mission to be the global leader in R&D. The R&D Group Leader fosters a culture of excellence, guiding the team to achieve scientific leadership and developing members' careers while ensuring a safe work environment.

 

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

Research:

• Serve as a recognized leader in power electronics and electromagnetics.
• Initiate and lead impactful R&D projects, demonstrated by successful proposals, presentations, publications, and intellectual property development.

 

Leadership:

• Develop and implement a cohesive research strategy to position the group for future success.
• Expand existing efforts and identify new opportunities.
• Guide staff in setting performance goals that align with group strategies and long-term career aspirations.
• Provide regular feedback to support staff development and performance.
• Attract and hire top talent from diverse backgrounds committed to world-class R&D.
• Lead by example, adhering to ORNL’s Research Code of Conduct and Battelle’s Safe Conduct of Research principles.
• Ensure safe and compliant operations in line with ORNL policies.
• Collaborate across divisions and contribute to lab-wide initiatives.
• Support staff in developing reports, publications, and journal articles.
• Develop industry collaborations.

 

Service:

• Supervise staff, encouraging innovative thinking, calculated risk-taking, and professional growth.
• Elevate the group’s reputation through collaborations and engagement with professional societies.
• Review technical products to ensure quality and alignment with ORNL standards.
• Build strong, interdisciplinary teams across ORNL.
• Facilitate regular group meetings and ensure visibility in labs.
• Prioritize safety in the group’s labs, mentoring staff to develop a robust safety culture.
• Communicate the importance of cybersecurity and the protection of proprietary information.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

 

Accountabilities:

• To staff: Ensure a safe, high-quality work environment with opportunities for professional growth.
• To R&D section head: Deliver world-leading science and ensure safe, effective operations.
• To customers: Provide high-quality products and services.

 

Authorities:

• Develop and implement a world-leading research strategy.
• Hold staff accountable for performance and safety.
• Hire staff and ensure the quality of group outputs.

 

Basic Qualifications:

•  Ph.D. with a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience, M.S. with 12 years, or B.S. with 15 years of relevant experienc