The UAI Center for Energy Transition (CENTRA) is a multidisciplinary research hub driving innovation to support the global transition toward sustainable energy systems. CENTRA focuses on research and development in clean fuels, sustainable energy supply, Industry 4.0, and tailored energy solutions for both urban and rural communities. (https://centra.uai.cl)

We are currently inviting applications for Postdoctoral Researcher positions to contribute to the high-impact Anillo Project ACT250025: “Decision Support Tools for Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) in Chile.” This project is a strategic pillar for the transformation of the Chilean electrical system through the development of Virtual Power Plants.

Project Description

This project aims to develop advanced decision-support tools for the planning, operation, and integration of VPPs in Chile. By aggregating Distributed Energy Resources (DERs)—including solar panels, batteries, electric vehicles, and smart appliances—the project seeks to improve system resilience and empower end-users through a multidisciplinary approach combining: Optimization and Artificial Intelligence; Digital Twins and Real-Time Simulation; and Market Design and Regulatory Analysis.

Research Lines

Candidates must specify their interest in one or more of the following areas:

  • Reliable and Resilient VPP Design: Development of efficient DER portfolios and network configurations under uncertainty (demand, prices, variable generation). Techniques include multi-stage stochastic/robust optimization and machine learning-based forecasting.

  • Efficient and Autonomous VPP Operation: Testing next-generation control strategies (AI, digital twins, and decision algorithms). This line includes validation through Hardware-in-the-loop experiments using OPAL-RT simulators and physical integration with photovoltaic generation, inverter management, and battery storage.

  • Innovative Market Development and Regulatory Frameworks: Design of market prototypes, smart contracts, and evaluation of pricing schemes for VPP participation in wholesale and local markets, providing direct policy recommendations for Chile’s energy roadmap.

Position Details and Benefits

  • Gross Monthly Salary: 2.3 million CLP, plus complementary research budget (Cost of living reference).

  • Duration: Starting April 2026; annually renewable based on performance.

  • Expectations: Candidates are expected to generate high-quality scientific output, including indexed publications (ISI/Scopus), research grant applications, and industrial project collaborations.

  • Location: Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez, Santiago, Chile.

Requirements

  • Education: Must hold a PhD degree by the date of application.

  • Languages: Proficiency in English or Spanish.

Required Documents

Please submit the following in a single PDF file:

  1. Statement of Purpose: Explaining your interest in joining CENTRA and the project, your relevant research from the last 2 years (articles, patents, etc.), and clearly indicating your preferred research line(s).

  2. Updated CV: Including a complete list of publications (clearly distinguishing between conference papers and indexed journal articles).

  3. Degree Documentation: Evidence of the PhD degree.

  4. References: Contact details for at least two academic or professional references. References will only be contacted with prior notice to the candidate.

Application Process

  • Deadline: March 01, 2026.

  • Submission: Send applications to jm.cruz@uai.cl and centra@uai.cl.

  • Email Subject: “CENTRA POSTDOCTORAL APPLICATION 2026”.

For further inquiries, please contact the email addresses listed above.