Postdoctoral Research Associate Digital Twin Modeling for Building Systems

Description & Details:

The Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering (CCEE) at North Dakota State University (NDSU) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to support a recently funded DoD STTR Phase II project. The project focuses on the development of digital twin models for building electrical and HVAC systems, integrating physics-based simulation, real-time data acquisition, and intelligent control frameworks.

This is a 12-month, full-time position beginning May 1, 2026 with the potential for renewal based on performance and continued funding. Salary is $60,000/yr plus benefits.

• Develop, validate, and deploy digital twin models for building electrical and HVAC systems.
• Work with real-time simulation tools (e.g., EnergyPlus, Modelica, Simulink, and/or TRNSYS).
• Integrate hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) or software-in-the-loop (SIL) frameworks with building BAS systems.
• Collaborate with faculty, industry partners, and graduate students
• Mentor graduate students at the master's and doctoral levels
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at national/international conferences.
• Contribute to project reporting and proposal development.

Hiring Range:

60,000 annual

Pay is based on several factors, including budget, labor market, prior experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and/or certification and other business considerations.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Architectural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a closely related field by the start date.
• Strong understanding of building electrical and HVAC systems.
• Demonstrated experience in building energy modeling or simulation of electrical/HVAC systems.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team-oriented research environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with digital twin frameworks, HIL/SIL testing, and integration of building control systems.
• Demonstrated proficiency in EnergyPlus, OpenModelica, and/or other building modeling tools, including co-simulation capabilities.
• Strong programming and modeling skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB/Simulink, etc.).
• Familiarity with machine learning and artificial intelligence applications
• Prior research related to smart buildings, HVAC control, and building automation systems.

Applicant Materials Required:

Interested applicants should submit the following materials via NDSU Online Application system:

1. Cover letter detailing research interests and qualifications (up to two pages)
2. Curriculum Vitae
3. Names and contact information of three references

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

NDSU OFFERS EXCELLENT BENEFITS!

Full time employees are eligible for the following benefits:

Health Insurance coverage with 100% of the premium paid for by NDSU for Single or Family Plan

Option of a PPO/Basic Plan or High Deductible Health Plan with Health Savings Account

Benefits begin the first of the month following date of hire

Wellness benefits are included for healthy lifestyle participation

Superb Retirement Plan

Employer Contributions range from 7.5% - 12.26% based on position

Basic Term Life Insurance

Tuition Waivers for Employee (three classes per calendar year)

Tuitions Waivers for Spouse/Partner & Dependents (eligible for 50% waiver)

Paid Leave - including Annual leave, Sick Leave and 10 paid Holidays

Employee Assistance Program

Optional benefits include: Supplemental Life, Dental, Vision, Long-term care insurance, Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care) and Supplemental Retirement Plans

More Detailed Information Here: Benefits | Human Resources | NDSU

About Us:

North Dakota State University is distinctive as a student focused, land-grant, research university. We educate leaders who solve national and global challenges by providing affordable access to an excellent education that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment.

NDSU is in the highest Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, R1, granted to the top research institutions in the country.

NDSU has offices across the state of North Dakota, and the main campus is in Fargo, on the Minnesota border. Along with Moorhead, Minnesota, Fargo forms one of the largest metropolitan centers between Minneapolis and Seattle. The community is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live.

NDSU is committed to fostering a community where differences are recognized as strengths. Rooted in our land-grant mission, we work together to meet the needs of North Dakota and its communities through education, research and outreach.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

NDSU does not discriminate in its programs and activities on the basis of age, color, gender expression/identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, participation in lawful off-campus activity, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, public assistance status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, spousal relationship to current employee, or veteran status, as applicable. Direct inquiries to: Vice Provost, Title IX/ADA Coordinator, Old Main 201, NDSU Main Campus, Fargo, ND, 58108, 701-231-7708, ndsu.eoaa@ndsu.edu.

No Smoking Notice:

As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. § 23-12-10.

Veteran's Preference Notice:

This position is subject to North Dakota Veteran's Preference requirements.

Reasonable Accommodation Information

North Dakota State University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, please contact Human Resources at 701-231-8961 or ndsu.hr@ndsu.edu .
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