Senior-Level Process Systems Modeling and Optimization Researcher

KeyLogic, LLC has an exciting opportunity for a Senior-Level Process Systems Modeling and Optimization Researcher. KeyLogic is the prime contractor supporting the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) under the Strategic Analysis (SA) site-support contract. The position is intended to support the Process Systems Engineering Research (PSER) team under the Strategic Systems Analysis and Engineering (SSAE) Directorate of NETL. This position will work on PSER projects, specifically developing mathematical programming and optimization platforms and applying next generation optimization algorithms and solvers to accelerate development of advanced energy systems. Primary responsibilities will include development of mathematical models and solution algorithms to solve large scale optimization problems; implementation of cutting-edge techniques (e.g. vehicle routing problems, traveler salesman programs, decomposition approaches, etc.); development and use of machine learning-based tools to solve complex problems; and interaction/engagement with stakeholders.

Position Responsibilities:

• Conduct exploratory and applied analyses in the areas of simulation, modeling and optimization, scientific computing, statistical analysis, and operational research.
• Investigate theoretical and fundamental phenomena as necessary to support PSER needs and develop new concepts.
• Provide technical expertise in process systems engineering for the recovery of critical minerals and rare earth elements.
• Domain expertise in mining and minerals engineering and mineral processing operations.
• Strong background in:
  • Statistical analysis
  • Bayesian optimization
  • Design of experiments

  • Support for pilot plants

Position Requirements:

• Ability to pass any required background checks and obtain any necessary security clearances required by our clients.
• Senior level PhD in Chemical Engineering/Computer Science/Operations Research Engineering with 10+ years of experience particularly in:
  • Process systems modeling and optimization
  • Process Engineering
  • Data science and advanced data analytics
  • Machine learning, Artificial Intelligence, and Digital-Twins

• Experience and application in an industrial setting is preferred.

The ideal candidate will have experience in on or more of the following areas:

• Development and utilization of rigorous steady-state and dynamic process models, including developing sub-models for physical properties, thermodynamics and kinetics, utilizing at least one of the following classes of modeling platforms:
  • Algebraic modeling languages such as GAMS, AIMMS, Pyomo, AMPL, JuMP, and/or MODELICA.
  • Experience with solvers like Cplex, Gurobi, BARON, SCIP, IPOPT, CONOPT, and DICOPT.
  • Programming Languages: C++, Visual Basic, Python.
  • Commercial process modeling tools such as gPROMS, Aspen Plus, Aspen Economic Analyzer, Aspen Dynamics, and Aspen Custom Modeler.
• Expertise in modeling complex energy system processes including:
  • Process design (including cost estimation), synthesis, and integration (including heat/mass integration)
  • Process modeling and simulation (both dynamic and steady-state)
  • Statistical analysis and uncertainty quantification (including Bayesian approaches)
• Industrial experience in mining and minerals engineering.