We have an exciting opportunity for a permanent position as a Scientist to join the Power Networks Team within NPL’s Electromagnetic Technologies Group.

The Power Networks Team specialises in research and development of measurement methods and instrumentation to enable intelligent monitoring of electricity grids. The UK electricity grid is undergoing a huge transformation as it’s preparing to operate with zero carbon emissions by 2030. While new technologies such as wind and solar generation, batteries, electric vehicle charging stations and heat pumps bring major environmental benefits, they also introduce significant challenges for stable grid operation. Power grid operators need new and better monitoring tools to gain a deeper insight and run the grid reliably and efficiently. The Power Networks Team at NPL works with UK industry partners, as well as other UK and international research organisations to ensure that new grid measurement solutions are fit-for-purpose.

You will be closely collaborating with the team to support activities including:

• Setup and safe operation of laboratory testbeds for electrical measurements related to various power grid phenomena (e.g. harmonics, frequency deviations)
• Development of software for automatic hardware configuration and data analysis
• Development and testing of new measurement methods and instrumentation for power quality and grid stability monitoring.
• Preparation and deployment of instrumentation for field measurement campaigns at locations across the UK and Europe
• Collaboration with international research organisations and universities within R&D projects
• Presenting research results in the form of publications, reports, posters and oral presentations at symposia and international conferences

This role is an opportunity to work with and learn from Senior Scientists to address cutting-edge measurement challenges in electricity networks. The work is project-based and varied, which means that we continually adapt our skills and capabilities to solve new problems.

To be successful in this role, we require:

• A degree in a STEM subject, preferably in the physical sciences or electrical/electronic engineering
• Good understanding of the physical quantities and laws relating to electricity
• Understanding of or willingness to learn about the workings of electricity networks
• Experience in or willingness to learn practical laboratory skills
• Strong numerical and analytical skills
• Programming experience, e.g. in Matlab
• A team player and good communicator
• Curiosity and problem-solving skills
• Ability to cope with change and ambiguities
• Ability to work independently and be pro-active
• Willingness to travel occasionally to locations across the UK and internationally for field measurement campaigns, partner meetings and conferences

We would also welcome if you have any of the following experience:

• Working on research projects, planning, delivering and documenting experiments
• Power system analysis, modelling, power quality, phasor measurements, power-electronics, control systems
• Data analysis and/or digital signal processing, e.g. Fourier Transform, filters
• Measurement, calibration and/or uncertainty analysis

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.

NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme. 

At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we hold memberships and accreditations to ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome, please see our Diversity & Inclusion page.

We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of benefits. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success. 

To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.