CAER Director Associate

Job Description

At the University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research, we aim to excel as an applied research and development center with an international reputation, focusing on the optimal use of Kentucky’s and the nation’s energy resources for the benefit of its people. We are currently accepting applications for the following position.

Job Title : CAER Director Associate

Requisition Number : RE52006

Working Title : Associate Director, Intelligent Systems for Grid Reliability

Department Name : 40550 : Ctr For Applied Energy Research

Work Location : Lexington, KY

Grade Level : 52

Salary Range : $107,994-183,581 / year

Type of Position : Staff Position

Time Status : Full-Time

Required Education : PhD

Click here for more information about equivalencies : - uk / equivalenciesRequired Related Experience6 yrs

Required License / Registration / Certification None

Physical Requirements : Requires handling light weight objects less than 10 lbs., and some standing and walking.

Shift 8 : 00 am – 5 : 00 pm, Monday – Friday; and some work-related travel required.

Job Summary : The University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research is seeking to fill an Associate Director position to manage the Center’s Intelligent Systems for Grid Reliability group. This is a highly technical and a senior management-level position with responsibilities to establish a world-class research program focusing on artificial intelligence applications for electrical power system reliability and resiliency. In the area of interest described above, the successful candidate will establish and lead : a.) AI-Driven Reliability Modeling , Predictive analytics for power system reliability assessment, machine learning for equipment failure prediction and maintenance optimization, real-time grid stability assessment using AI / ML techniques; b.) Resilience Under Extreme Events , AI models for grid response to severe weather, cyber-attacks, and natural disasters, adaptive grid recovery and self-healing systems, climate change impact modeling on electrical infrastructure, low probability, high impact energy emergency events / failures; c.) Integration of Renewable Energy , AI-optimized management of variable renewable energy resources, smart inverter control and distributed energy resource coordination, energy storage optimization using machine learning; d.) Gride Modernization & Smart Grid Technologies , advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) data analytics, demand response optimization using AI, microgrid control and islanding strategies.

Key responsibilities include recruiting, managing, and mentoring a multidisciplinary team of 5–10 research professionals, including scientists, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate assistants. The candidate will develop and lead innovative research programs, securing $3–5 million annually in funding from federal agencies, industry partners, and foundations. They will cultivate strategic partnerships with Kentucky utilities, national laboratories, and industry stakeholders, while providing scientific direction across multiple concurrent projects. Additional duties include identifying new funding opportunities, representing CAER at national forums, and fostering the development of early-career researchers and student interns.

Specific Skill Sets : The candidate should have 1.) deep knowledge of electrical power systems, grid operations, and reliability analysis; 2.) proven expertise in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data analytics; and 3.) experience with power systems modeling tools. Practical experience in industry is desired. Demonstrated ability to secure competitive research funding ($5M+ career total preferred) and managing large-scale technical projects and cross-functional teams. Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals, technical reports, and / or industry publications. Experience collaborating with utilities, grid operators, energy companies, and national laboratories. Track record of developing multi-stakeholder industry partnerships and consortia.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? Yes

Preferred Education / Experience : PhD + 12 years experience

Deadline to Apply : 11 / 27 / 2025

Our University Community We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and / or drug screen.