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National Laboratory of the Rockies · 2 weeks ago

Graduate Intern - Data Center Load Modeling for Transmission Planning Studies

United States

Internship

Remote

Intern

$44K/yr - $70K/yr

The National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR) is the nation's primary laboratory for energy systems research and development. They are seeking a highly motivated intern to support the development of composite data center load models for transmission planning studies, focusing on building and validating detailed EMT models and RMS-based phasor models.

Clean EnergyCleanTechEnergyRenewable Energy

Responsibilities

Gather and analyze technical data on data center electrical architecture, including UPS systems, PDUs, cooling systems, and backup generation

Develop and validate component-level models (e.g., UPS with PFC, PDU, VFD), and build a composite data center load model that integrates IT load, power electronic interfaces, and motor-driven auxiliaries

Implement detailed EMT models in simulation platforms (e.g., PSCAD, RTDS) to capture fast transients and fault behavior

Validate the EMT models using real-world data

Build corresponding RMS phasor models for transmission planning tools (e.g., PSS®E, and PSLF) to enable computationally efficient studies

Perform side-by-side comparisons between EMT and RMS models to assess accuracy and applicability for different planning scenarios

Document modeling methods, assumptions, and validation results in a clear and reproducible format

Collaborate with planning and protection engineers to ensure models meet practical study requirements

Contributing to the development of technical reports and research papers

Qualification

Power systemsDynamic load modelingEMT simulation toolsPower electronicsProgramming skillsAnalytical skillsTechnical writingCommunication skillsCollaboration

Required

Minimum of a 3.0 cumulative grade point average

Undergraduate: Must be enrolled as a full-time student in a bachelor's degree program from an accredited institution

Post Undergraduate: Earned a bachelor's degree within the past 12 months. Eligible for an internship period of up to one year

Graduate: Must be enrolled as a full-time student in a master's degree program from an accredited institution

Post Graduate: Earned a master's degree within the past 12 months. Eligible for an internship period of up to one year

Graduate + PhD: Completed master's degree and enrolled as PhD student from an accredited institution

Completed an undergraduate degree in power systems, electrical engineering, or related field, and be pursuing or graduated from a master's degree, or currently enrolled in a PhD program in these fields

Demonstrated knowledge and experience with power electronics, machine and drives, dynamic load modeling, and power system stability

Experience with EMT simulation tools (e.g., PSCAD or EMTP)

Strong programming/analytical skills (Python, MATLAB, or similar)

Strong communication and technical writing skills